Alabama Gun Laws: Can Visitors Carry Their Firearm?

Gun laws and the interstate transportation of firearms vary greatly from state to state. What may be lawful in Alabama may be unlawful in another state. Visitors planning to travel with their firearm to and through a different state might want to become familiar with the state's gun laws.

The allowance for carrying a firearm in a vehicle may also be different depending if a person has a permit honored in that state.

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In Alabama, any valid out-of-state permits or licenses to possess or carry a concealed handgun is valid for carrying a concealed handgun in the state of Alabama. Although the permit does allow the holder to carry a concealed weapon in Alabama, the visiting permit holder will still be subject to the same laws and restrictions in the same manner that an

Alabama permit holder must comply with the laws of the state. This includes being familiar with all prohibited carry locations.

Alabama is an open carry state as well. This means that a person can openly carry a handgun without any type of permit or license. Places that are prohibited by state law still apply as "off limits" to any person who is open carrying a handgun. However, you can't open carry in a vehicle without a permit.

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While in 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.

This article does not constitute legal advice. Check the current gun laws before purchasing or traveling with a firearm.

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