Is Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) Legal in Alabama? (2026)
Yes — Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is legal in Alabama as of 2026.
Law changed in 2023: The permitless carry law took effect on January 1, 2023. As of early 2026, there are legislative efforts to repeal this law, but no changes have been enacted.
Quick Answer
Alabama allows permitless concealed carry for residents 19 years or older who are legally allowed to possess a firearm. This is authorized under Alabama Code Title 13A, Chapter 11, Section 13A-11-73.1, effective since 2022.
- Age restriction: 19 years or older
What the Law Says
Alabama Code Title 13A, Chapter 11, Section 13A-11-73.1 permits residents 19 years or older, who are legally allowed to possess a firearm, to carry a concealed handgun without a permit. Failure to meet these requirements can lead to misdemeanor charges.
— Alabama Code Title 13A, Chapter 11, Section 13A-11-73.1
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Permitless Carry Rules | Residents 19+ may carry concealed without a permit; non-residents still require a permit. |
| Permit Availability | Firearm sales regulated under federal and state law; no special restrictions related to permitless carry. |
| Penalties | Carrying concealed without meeting requirements may result in misdemeanor charges. |
| Minimum Age | 19 years or older |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The permitless carry law took effect on January 1, 2023. As of early 2026, there are legislative efforts to repeal this law, but no changes have been enacted.
Enforcement Reality
While legal, law enforcement has expressed concerns over the permitless carry law, suggesting it is a point of contention and may be closely monitored. Local police may have a lower tolerance for any related infractions.
A common mistake is for individuals under 19 to believe they can carry without a permit. Another is carrying in restricted locations such as schools and courthouses where it remains illegal.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Alabama. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) in Alabama
Can You Cross State Lines With Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) From Alabama?
This is where people get burned. Alabama treats constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) as legal, but neighboring Mississippi treats it as restricted. The law changes at the state line — not gradually, not with a warning sign, instantly. "I bought it legally" is not a defense in the new state. Interstate highways near the Alabama/Mississippi border are known enforcement corridors. If you're driving with out-of-state plates in a state where constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) is illegal, you're a target.
Bottom Line
Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is legal in Alabama. You can carrying a concealed weapon without a permit without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Alabama vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is fully legal in 23 states, restricted in 14, and illegal in 13. Alabama falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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