Is Open Carry Legal in Arizona? (2026)
Partially — Open Carry is legal with restrictions in Arizona as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Open carry of firearms is legal with restrictions in Arizona without a permit for adults who are legally allowed to possess firearms. Arizona has not had major recent changes to its open carry laws, as it has long been a constitutional carry state.
- Age restriction: 18+ for long guns, 21+ for handguns
What the Law Says
Arizona law permits open carry for individuals 18 and older who can legally possess a firearm. Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3102 outlines misconduct involving weapons, making it a Class 1 misdemeanor to carry in prohibited locations.
— Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3102
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Open Carry Rules | Legal without permit for eligible adults |
| Permit Requirements | Legal through licensed dealers |
| Penalties | Prohibited in certain locations (schools, courthouses, etc.). |
| Minimum Age | 18+ for long guns, 21+ for handguns |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
Arizona has not had major recent changes to its open carry laws, as it has long been a constitutional carry state.
Enforcement Reality
Open carry is legal in Arizona for any person 18 years or older who can legally possess a firearm. No permit is required, and law enforcement can only question someone if they have reasonable suspicion of a crime.
Common mistakes include carrying into an establishment that serves alcohol for consumption on the premises, or onto school grounds, which are generally prohibited.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Arizona. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Open Carry in Arizona
Can You Cross State Lines With Open Carry From Arizona?
This is where people get burned. Arizona treats open carry as restricted, but neighboring California treats it as illegal. 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 Arizona/California border are known enforcement corridors. If you're driving with out-of-state plates in a state where open carry is illegal, you're a target.
Bottom Line
Open Carry is legal with restrictions in Arizona. This activity is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Arizona vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, open carrying a firearm is fully legal in 0 states, restricted in 45, and illegal in 5. Arizona falls in the RESTRICTED 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.
Comprehensive Arizona Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in Arizona — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.