Is Open Carry Legal in Hawaii? (2026)
No — Open Carry is illegal in Hawaii as of 2026.
Law changed in 2026: Recent court decisions have challenged Hawaii's restrictive gun laws, but as of early 2026, the state's strict licensing requirements for open carry remain in place.
Quick Answer
Open carry of firearms is generally prohibited in Hawaii. Recent court decisions have challenged Hawaii's restrictive gun laws, but as of early 2026, the state's strict licensing requirements for open carry remain in place.
- Age restriction: 21+
What the Law Says
Hawaii law requires a license for open carry, which is rarely granted, effectively prohibiting the practice. Carrying a firearm without a license is a petty misdemeanor under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 134-9.
— Haw. Rev. Stat. § 134-9
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Open Carry Rules | Illegal for most civilians |
| Permit Requirements | Firearms sales legal through licensed dealers |
| Penalties | Criminal weapons charges for open carry violations. |
| Minimum Age | 21+ |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
Recent court decisions have challenged Hawaii's restrictive gun laws, but as of early 2026, the state's strict licensing requirements for open carry remain in place.
Enforcement Reality
Hawaii is a licensed open carry state, but licenses are very rarely issued, making open carry practically illegal for most people. Law enforcement will strictly enforce the permit requirement.
A common mistake is assuming that recent court challenges have made open carry legal in Hawaii. While there are ongoing legal battles, the law requiring a permit remains in effect.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Hawaii. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Open Carry is illegal in Hawaii. This activity can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
Hawaii 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. Hawaii falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Frequently Asked Questions
Is open carrying a firearm legal in Hawaii?
What are the penalties for open carrying a firearm in Hawaii?
How strictly does Hawaii enforce its open carry laws?
What typically triggers enforcement in Hawaii?
What is the minimum age for open carrying a firearm in Hawaii?
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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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