Is Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) Legal in Louisiana? (2026)
Yes — Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is legal in Louisiana as of 2026.
Law changed in 2024: The constitutional carry law was signed in March 2024 and took effect on July 4, 2024. This is a major change from the previous permit-based system.
Quick Answer
Louisiana allows permitless concealed carry for residents 21 and older under La. R.S. 40:1379.3, effective August 1, 2022. No permit is required to carry concealed firearms.
- Age restriction: 21 years old for permitless carry
What the Law Says
Louisiana does not restrict constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry). No specific statute prohibits or regulates this activity.
— Louisiana Revised Statutes 40:1379.3
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Permitless Carry Rules | Permitless concealed carry allowed for those 21+ legally allowed to possess firearms. |
| Permit Availability | Sales regulated with background checks for licensed dealers. |
| Penalties | N/A for lawful carry; penalties apply for prohibited persons under La. R.S. 14:95.1. |
| Minimum Age | 21 years old for permitless carry. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The constitutional carry law was signed in March 2024 and took effect on July 4, 2024. This is a major change from the previous permit-based system.
Enforcement Reality
Louisiana's constitutional carry law is very recent, taking effect on July 4, 2024. Enforcement is still developing, but it is important to note that the law does not apply in the city of New Orleans, where a permit is still required.
A major mistake is assuming the law applies statewide; it does not apply in New Orleans. Another is for individuals under 18 to believe they can carry, as the law only applies to those 18 and older.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Louisiana. 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 Louisiana
Can You Cross State Lines With Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) From Louisiana?
This is where people get burned. Louisiana 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 Louisiana/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 Louisiana. 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.
Louisiana 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. Louisiana 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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