Louisiana is known as a gun-friendly state. The measures of firearm friendliness apply to not only residents, but to those who are visiting the state. The state honors permits from other states in regards to handguns, but gun owners must follow all Louisiana laws relating to firearms.
ALERT: Should Obama Have More Control Over Guns? Vote Now
1. Possession. Laws that visitors must follow include the when and where they can possess a weapon. For example, possession of a firearm while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs is illegal for anyone in the state. Possession of a firearm in a bar is grounds to lose your right to carry.
2. Restrictions. Certain businesses can also restrict an individual from possession of a firearm on their property. Signs are normally placed on the doors of facilities where weapons are banned. These include school zones and government offices. The Louisiana Open Carry Awareness League advises anyone unsure of an establishment’s policy to inquire prior to visiting while carrying a weapon.
3. Police Cooperation. If approached by a peace officer the person carrying, regardless of residency, must immediately inform the officer of the weapon being on their person, submit to a pat down and agree for the officer to temporarily disarm them. Concealed-carry permits must be carried at all times when armed and must be produced immediately at the request of the police. Failure to do so can result in a fine of not more than $100, according to the Louisiana State Police.
VOTE NOW: Is Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy Doing a Good Job?
4. Age Requirement. Louisiana is considered open carry state, but you must be at least 18 years old to open carry or possess a handgun. While state law indicates an age requirement of 17, federal law trumps the measure and requires persons to be 18 to carry or possess a handgun. Open carry has been the state policy since at least the mid-19th century.
5. Open Carry Welcome. Visitors will find they are more than welcome to open carry while traveling in Louisiana. Some restaurants even offer a discount to those who dine while carrying their weapon. “If somebody walked in here with a gun and wanted to hurt us — we’re not defenseless,” said restaurant patron Olivia Carambat
in a 2014 New York Post interview.
So while some states are working to restrict firearm ownership, Louisiana embraces and welcomes individuals who wish to exercise their rights, as long as they follow state laws.
This article does not constitute legal advice. Check the current gun laws before purchasing or traveling with a firearm.
URGENT: Do You Support Obama's Plans for Stricter Gun Control? Vote Now
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.