Gun laws regarding carrying of a firearm either openly or concealed, including carrying in a vehicle, can be different depending if a person has a permit. Alabama is one of 30 states nationally that have open carry allowances for handguns without a permit, although specific laws are dependent on the state.
The regulations governing how a permit is issued will also vary greatly from state to state. In Alabama, it is still unlawful to openly carry a handgun in your vehicle without a permit.
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States which allow their residents to carry openly with a permit only are Utah, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Minnesota, Iowa, Indiana, Tennessee, Georgia, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts*, New Jersey*, Maryland*, and Hawaii* (states marked* have very restricted laws and regulations in regards to obtaining a permit, however, there may be no distinction with open versus concealed carry with a permit).
Open carry without a permit is legal in 29 other states, and in Texas, Illinois, New York, South Carolina, Florida, or California open carry is not permitted.
A resident of Alabama who wants a permit to carry a handgun concealed must apply through the local sheriff's office. The applicant must be at least 18 years or older. Training is not mandated for the permit. The license is to be able to carry a pistol in a vehicle or on person.
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There are specific prohibited carry locations which the permit holder should be familiar with. Places off-limits even with a permit may differ from state to state, as does the recognition of the permit in states outside the resident state in which the permit was issued.
Specific to a motor vehicle, a visitor to Alabama must have a permit to carry a loaded, concealed handgun in the vehicle. Without a permit, a visitor must abide by either state or federal law in regards to transporting a firearm in the vehicle.
Alabama state law is similar to the federal law which states the unloaded firearm must be in a locked container not readily accessible by any of the occupants (excluding the glove box or console) such as the trunk, completely separated from ammunition.
Compared nationally, there are 29 other states that recognize the Alabama permit to carry a handgun. Alabama honors all other state permits or licenses.
This article does not constitute legal advice. Check the current gun laws before purchasing or traveling with a firearm.
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