Ohio carry status overview
Ohio is a permitless carry state. SB 215, signed by Governor Mike DeWine and effective June 13, 2022, allows Ohio residents and visitors 21 years of age or older who are legally eligible to possess a handgun to carry it concealed without a Concealed Handgun License (CHL).
Ohio's permitless carry law also removed the duty to notify law enforcement of a concealed firearm during a traffic stop unless the officer asks. Prior to SB 215, Ohio required both a CHL and immediate notification to officers during any encounter. Both of those requirements were eliminated by SB 215.
The Ohio CHL remains available from county sheriffs and continues to be recommended for residents who travel, as it is honored in 37+ other states for reciprocity.
| Permitless carry | Yes — effective June 13, 2022 (SB 215) |
| Governing law | Ohio Revised Code § 2923.12 |
| Minimum age | 21 years old |
| Open carry | Yes — generally permitted without a licenseOpen carry in a vehicle without a CHL requires compliance with transportation rules |
| Vehicle carry | Allowed — no duty to inform unless askedSB 215 eliminated Ohio's prior duty-to-notify requirement |
| Permit available | Yes — Ohio CHL, issued by county sheriff |
Ohio Concealed Handgun License (CHL)
| Issuing agency | County sheriff of applicant's county of residence |
| Application info | Ohio AG — Concealed Carry ↗ |
| Minimum age | 21 |
| Fee | Approximately $67 (varies by county) |
| Validity | 5 years |
| Training required | Yes — 8-hour certified course including shooting competency |
| Background check | Yes — BCI and FBI NICS |
| Non-resident CHL | Available to military members stationed in Ohio |
Vehicle carry and traffic stops in Ohio
Ohio removed its duty-to-notify requirement with SB 215. Prior to June 13, 2022, Ohio required anyone carrying a concealed handgun in a vehicle to immediately inform a law enforcement officer of the weapon during any stop. This requirement was eliminated.
Current Ohio law: if you are stopped by law enforcement while carrying a concealed handgun, you are only required to inform the officer if the officer asks. You must truthfully answer if asked. Voluntary disclosure is encouraged by many safety experts, but is no longer legally required.
For carrying in a vehicle without a CHL: the handgun must be loaded and accessible in a manner consistent with O.R.C. § 2923.16. Generally, a person carrying without a CHL should not reach for or handle the firearm during a traffic stop unless directed to by the officer.
Prohibited locations in Ohio
- School safety zones and school buildings (K–12)
- Courthouses and court facilities
- Police stations and sheriff offices
- State correctional institutions
- Airport secure areas (beyond security)
- Premises of liquor permit holders if prohibited by the permit holder
- Places of worship (if prohibited by governing authority)
- Certain government facilities
- Any location prohibited by federal law
- Private property with posted prohibition notice
Liquor establishments: Ohio law (O.R.C. § 2923.121) prohibits carry in premises with a D liquor permit (e.g., bars) unless otherwise authorized. CHL holders should verify the permit status of an establishment when uncertain.
Frequently asked questions — Ohio
Does Ohio require a permit to carry a concealed handgun?
No. As of June 13, 2022, Ohio is a permitless carry state under SB 215. Any person 21 or older who is legally eligible to possess a handgun may carry it concealed without a CHL. You must not be prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law (no felony convictions, domestic violence adjudications, etc.).
Do I have to tell a police officer I have a gun in Ohio?
Not automatically. SB 215 (effective June 13, 2022) eliminated Ohio's previous duty-to-notify requirement. You are now only required to inform a law enforcement officer that you are carrying a concealed handgun if the officer asks you. Many safety experts recommend voluntarily disclosing your firearm during any law enforcement encounter regardless of the legal requirement.
Is an Ohio CHL worth getting?
Yes, for most gun owners who travel. The Ohio CHL is honored in 37+ states for reciprocity. It also provides legal certainty in some situations within Ohio and demonstrates completion of an 8-hour safety course. Apply through your county sheriff. Fees are approximately $67 and the CHL is valid for 5 years.
Can I open carry in Ohio?
Yes. Ohio allows open carry of firearms without a license in most public places. However, open carry in a vehicle is treated differently — a loaded handgun that is accessible in a vehicle by a non-CHL holder must comply with O.R.C. § 2923.16. CHL holders may have the handgun loaded and accessible in a vehicle. When open carrying, be aware that some locations prohibit any visible firearm regardless of licensing status.
Does Ohio honor out-of-state carry permits?
Yes. Ohio recognizes valid carry licenses from states that have a reciprocity agreement with Ohio. Additionally, as a permitless carry state, any eligible person 21+ may carry concealed in Ohio without any permit. Check with the Ohio Attorney General's office for the current reciprocity list, as it can change.