“Concealed firearm” is a loaded or unloaded handgun which is carried upon a person in such a manner as not to be discernible by ordinary observation (NRS 202.3653), this includes in a carried bag/purse.
Concealing a firearm without a permit is a felony. Nevada is not a constitutional carry state.
Concealing a firearm without a permit is a felony. Nevada is not a constitutional carry state.
"Printing," where the imprint of your gun shows through your clothing, is not illegal anywhere in the United States.
How to Obtain a Concealed Firearm Permit, NRS 202.3657
Part 1
Take an eight hour concealed firearm permit course approved by the sheriff. Out-of-state or military training does not qualify.
Residents: Apply to the sheriff of your county.
Non-residents: Apply to the sheriff of any county (for example, Clark County routinely takes 90-100 days to approve a concealed firearm permit). Visiting America/Nevada? You can open carry! Illegal immigrants cannot possess firearms and non-citizens generally have their permit applications denied. If you are moving to Nevada and have an out-of-state permit, you must apply for a resident permit from scratch, including taking the training class.
Training
You must demonstrate competence with a handgun by successfully completing a course in firearm safety approved by a sheriff in this State; or successfully complete a course in firearm safety offered by a federal, state or local law enforcement agency, community college, university or national organization that certifies instructors in firearm safety. The course must include instruction in the use of handguns and in the laws of this State relating to the use of a firearm and must meet the standards of the Nevada Sheriffs’ and Chiefs’ Association.
Take an eight hour concealed firearm permit course approved by the sheriff. Out-of-state or military training does not qualify.
Residents: Apply to the sheriff of your county.
Non-residents: Apply to the sheriff of any county (for example, Clark County routinely takes 90-100 days to approve a concealed firearm permit). Visiting America/Nevada? You can open carry! Illegal immigrants cannot possess firearms and non-citizens generally have their permit applications denied. If you are moving to Nevada and have an out-of-state permit, you must apply for a resident permit from scratch, including taking the training class.
Training
You must demonstrate competence with a handgun by successfully completing a course in firearm safety approved by a sheriff in this State; or successfully complete a course in firearm safety offered by a federal, state or local law enforcement agency, community college, university or national organization that certifies instructors in firearm safety. The course must include instruction in the use of handguns and in the laws of this State relating to the use of a firearm and must meet the standards of the Nevada Sheriffs’ and Chiefs’ Association.
Part 2
Only one application is needed for every firearm you own and you do not have to list each firearm individually; the 'revolver/semi-automatic' distinction has been abolished as of 2011. The issued permit will cover every handgun you own or acquire.
Part 3
The sheriff shall issue a permit to any applicant who is qualified to possess a handgun under state and federal law and must do so within 120 days or deny the permit for lawful reasons (NRS 202.366). In rare cases, temporary permits may be issued for delayed applications. Sheriffs consider the 120 days to begin once you have been fingerprinted. Appointment waiting periods (due to scheduling demand) do not count towards the 120 days.
Qualifications:
1. Be 21 or older—military see below (NRS 202.3657);
2. Not a felon, a fugitive, a drug addict, have never been adjudicated mentally ill or committed, not an illegal alien, nor have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence (NRS 202.360).
In the Military?
PCS in Nevada? Thinking of carrying on your "home" state permit? Read this blog post to learn about residency for concealed firearm permit purposes.
Service members (active, reserve, or National Guard) and honorably discharged veterans 18-20 may also apply (AB 118, 2017). Your application will be denied if you were discharged under conditions other than honorable conditions. Nevada does recognize Utah's equivalent permit.
Only one application is needed for every firearm you own and you do not have to list each firearm individually; the 'revolver/semi-automatic' distinction has been abolished as of 2011. The issued permit will cover every handgun you own or acquire.
Part 3
The sheriff shall issue a permit to any applicant who is qualified to possess a handgun under state and federal law and must do so within 120 days or deny the permit for lawful reasons (NRS 202.366). In rare cases, temporary permits may be issued for delayed applications. Sheriffs consider the 120 days to begin once you have been fingerprinted. Appointment waiting periods (due to scheduling demand) do not count towards the 120 days.
Qualifications:
1. Be 21 or older—military see below (NRS 202.3657);
2. Not a felon, a fugitive, a drug addict, have never been adjudicated mentally ill or committed, not an illegal alien, nor have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence (NRS 202.360).
In the Military?
PCS in Nevada? Thinking of carrying on your "home" state permit? Read this blog post to learn about residency for concealed firearm permit purposes.
Service members (active, reserve, or National Guard) and honorably discharged veterans 18-20 may also apply (AB 118, 2017). Your application will be denied if you were discharged under conditions other than honorable conditions. Nevada does recognize Utah's equivalent permit.
Drugs
Smoking marijuana, especially if you have a medicinal marijuana card, makes you a prohibited person under law to own, purchase and carry firearms. Medicinal marijuana patients may be reported and their application denied. Taking or having in your possession legitimate prescription drugs (not marijuana) with a valid prescription to yourself is not illegal. Read more at the blog.
Smoking marijuana, especially if you have a medicinal marijuana card, makes you a prohibited person under law to own, purchase and carry firearms. Medicinal marijuana patients may be reported and their application denied. Taking or having in your possession legitimate prescription drugs (not marijuana) with a valid prescription to yourself is not illegal. Read more at the blog.
Part 4
Your permit shall be denied if you fail to meet the above requirements or at least one of the following is true:
1. You have an outstanding arrest warrant.
2. You have been declared incompetent/insane or have been have been admitted to a mental health facility within the last 5 years.
3. You have been convicted of DUI within the last 5 years or committed to rehab for drugs or alcohol within the last 5 years.
4. You have been convicted of a violent misdemeanor within the last 3 years or are a felon.
5. You have been convicted of domestic violence or have a restraining order against you due to domestic violence.
6. You are on parole or probation or you have a suspended felony against you within the last 5 years.
7. You made a false statement on your application.
Your permit will be suspended or revoked if the sheriff finds out about you being disqualified by anything in Part 4.
See also: NRS 202.3665
Important
Do not sign your application until you are directed to so by a sheriff's employee, unless you have the form notarized.
Be sure to provide a passport style color photo of you from the front. One may be taken of you by the sheriff. You will also pay fees of not more that $60 to the sheriff (FBI fees will be extra).
The sheriff will fingerprint you. You will be 'run' through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, the Central Repository for Nevada Records of Criminal History, and through the FBI database (NRS 202.366). Sheriffs consider the 120 days to begin once you have been fingerprinted.
Be sure to carefully review and follow all the instructions on the application form. Refer to the sheriff's instructions for how each office handles the actual application and fingerprinting process, which may vary slightly from above.
If your application is denied, you may appeal in district court for the county in which you applied (NRS 202.3663).
Your permit shall be denied if you fail to meet the above requirements or at least one of the following is true:
1. You have an outstanding arrest warrant.
2. You have been declared incompetent/insane or have been have been admitted to a mental health facility within the last 5 years.
3. You have been convicted of DUI within the last 5 years or committed to rehab for drugs or alcohol within the last 5 years.
4. You have been convicted of a violent misdemeanor within the last 3 years or are a felon.
5. You have been convicted of domestic violence or have a restraining order against you due to domestic violence.
6. You are on parole or probation or you have a suspended felony against you within the last 5 years.
7. You made a false statement on your application.
Your permit will be suspended or revoked if the sheriff finds out about you being disqualified by anything in Part 4.
See also: NRS 202.3665
Important
Do not sign your application until you are directed to so by a sheriff's employee, unless you have the form notarized.
Be sure to provide a passport style color photo of you from the front. One may be taken of you by the sheriff. You will also pay fees of not more that $60 to the sheriff (FBI fees will be extra).
The sheriff will fingerprint you. You will be 'run' through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, the Central Repository for Nevada Records of Criminal History, and through the FBI database (NRS 202.366). Sheriffs consider the 120 days to begin once you have been fingerprinted.
Be sure to carefully review and follow all the instructions on the application form. Refer to the sheriff's instructions for how each office handles the actual application and fingerprinting process, which may vary slightly from above.
If your application is denied, you may appeal in district court for the county in which you applied (NRS 202.3663).
Renewal
Unless suspended or revoked, a permit is valid five (5) years from the issue date. Plan the renewal in advance, as in Clark County, renewal application processing can take between 90-120 days. Typically you can renew up to 180 days prior to expiration. For the foreseeable future, due to extremely high demand expect a 120 day wait once you've submitted your fingerprints (sheriffs do not consider the waiting period to begin until that point). Appointment waits (some appointments are being scheduled months in advance) do not count towards the 120 days.
Complete the process as above for applying for a permit, except the fees are $25 and the class is four (4) hours (NRS 202.3677).
Expired Permits
If your permit has expired, you may not carry concealed until your renewal permit is issued. There is renewal no "grace period." The blanket 90 day extension for expiring permits to July 15th has passed; your permit may be extended 90 days depending on the issuance/processing status of the issuing sheriff's office.
Unless suspended or revoked, a permit is valid five (5) years from the issue date. Plan the renewal in advance, as in Clark County, renewal application processing can take between 90-120 days. Typically you can renew up to 180 days prior to expiration. For the foreseeable future, due to extremely high demand expect a 120 day wait once you've submitted your fingerprints (sheriffs do not consider the waiting period to begin until that point). Appointment waits (some appointments are being scheduled months in advance) do not count towards the 120 days.
Complete the process as above for applying for a permit, except the fees are $25 and the class is four (4) hours (NRS 202.3677).
Expired Permits
If your permit has expired, you may not carry concealed until your renewal permit is issued. There is renewal no "grace period." The blanket 90 day extension for expiring permits to July 15th has passed; your permit may be extended 90 days depending on the issuance/processing status of the issuing sheriff's office.
When You Get Your Concealed Firearms Permit
Check the information on your card! If it is incorrect, call the sheriff's office immediately.
You must carry your permit and proper ID (such as a driver license) when carrying a concealed firearm. Both the permit and proper identification must be presented if asked by a peace officer (no duty to first inform). A violation is an infraction punishable by a $25 fine (NRS 202.3667). Note that this does not require you to carry your concealed firearm permit when carrying openly. Nevada does not require you to notify a peace officer that you are carrying a firearm, but out of courtesy, if you are being detained, you may choose to inform the officer you are lawfully carrying a concealed firearm. Gun owner's guide to rights during police encounters.
Can police take my gun for officer safety if I get pulled over or detained?
Police may detain you if the officer encounters you under circumstances which reasonably indicate that you have committed, are committing or are about to commit a crime (NRS 171.123), or else he must release you if no probable cause for arrest appears after inquiry into the circumstances which prompted the detention. NRS 171.1231
A police officer who has legally detained you (reasonably suspects) reasonably believes that you are armed with a dangerous weapon and is a threat to the safety of the officer or another, the officer may search such you to the extent reasonably necessary to ascertain the presence of such weapon. If the search discloses a weapon or any evidence of a crime, such weapon or evidence may be seized (NRS 171.1232). It is assumed they have to give your weapon back if they release you for lack of probable cause and they have no probable cause that the weapon is stolen.
You must carry your permit and proper ID (such as a driver license) when carrying a concealed firearm. Both the permit and proper identification must be presented if asked by a peace officer (no duty to first inform). A violation is an infraction punishable by a $25 fine (NRS 202.3667). Note that this does not require you to carry your concealed firearm permit when carrying openly. Nevada does not require you to notify a peace officer that you are carrying a firearm, but out of courtesy, if you are being detained, you may choose to inform the officer you are lawfully carrying a concealed firearm. Gun owner's guide to rights during police encounters.
Can police take my gun for officer safety if I get pulled over or detained?
Police may detain you if the officer encounters you under circumstances which reasonably indicate that you have committed, are committing or are about to commit a crime (NRS 171.123), or else he must release you if no probable cause for arrest appears after inquiry into the circumstances which prompted the detention. NRS 171.1231
A police officer who has legally detained you (reasonably suspects) reasonably believes that you are armed with a dangerous weapon and is a threat to the safety of the officer or another, the officer may search such you to the extent reasonably necessary to ascertain the presence of such weapon. If the search discloses a weapon or any evidence of a crime, such weapon or evidence may be seized (NRS 171.1232). It is assumed they have to give your weapon back if they release you for lack of probable cause and they have no probable cause that the weapon is stolen.
Address Changes
If your permanent address changes—i.e. you move--you must notify the sheriff in writing within 30 days. For Nevada residents who change counties (ex. from Washoe to Douglas), you may keep your permit from your former county until it expires, when you would renew in your new county of residence. Visit your issuing sheriff's website for forms and submission instructions.
Moving Counties
If you are a Nevada resident who moves to a new county, you do not need to re-apply in a new county, only change your address with the sheriff who issued your permit. You may keep your permit from your former county until it expires, when you would renew in your new county of residence. A renewal in a new county would still be a renewal, not a new issue in the new county. See above.
Lost Permits
If your permit is lost, stolen, or destroyed, you must within 30 days, submit a written statement to the sheriff that your permit was lost, stolen, or destroyed and pay a replacement $15 fee. Should you recover your original permit, you must return the duplicate permit and notify the sheriff in writing within 10 days (NRS 202.367).
Guns Carried
For permits issued on or after July 1, 2011, any owned handgun, semi-automatic pistol or revolver, can be carried concealed by a permittee. If the permit was issued before July 1, 2011, the permit will list the specific authorized handguns that can be legally carried. There is no legal opinion whether that requirement for pre 7/1/2011 permittees would still have legal force or is actively being enforced. All 'listed weapons' permits will expire on July 1, 2016 and licensee's renewals will cover any handgun the permittee owns.
If your permanent address changes—i.e. you move--you must notify the sheriff in writing within 30 days. For Nevada residents who change counties (ex. from Washoe to Douglas), you may keep your permit from your former county until it expires, when you would renew in your new county of residence. Visit your issuing sheriff's website for forms and submission instructions.
Moving Counties
If you are a Nevada resident who moves to a new county, you do not need to re-apply in a new county, only change your address with the sheriff who issued your permit. You may keep your permit from your former county until it expires, when you would renew in your new county of residence. A renewal in a new county would still be a renewal, not a new issue in the new county. See above.
Lost Permits
If your permit is lost, stolen, or destroyed, you must within 30 days, submit a written statement to the sheriff that your permit was lost, stolen, or destroyed and pay a replacement $15 fee. Should you recover your original permit, you must return the duplicate permit and notify the sheriff in writing within 10 days (NRS 202.367).
Guns Carried
For permits issued on or after July 1, 2011, any owned handgun, semi-automatic pistol or revolver, can be carried concealed by a permittee. If the permit was issued before July 1, 2011, the permit will list the specific authorized handguns that can be legally carried. There is no legal opinion whether that requirement for pre 7/1/2011 permittees would still have legal force or is actively being enforced. All 'listed weapons' permits will expire on July 1, 2016 and licensee's renewals will cover any handgun the permittee owns.
Only handguns (pistols and revolvers) may be carried concealed. It is a felony to carry any weapon other than a handgun (with a permit) concealed, including a rifle, shotgun, or other weapon. This would include short shotgun-type weapons and short-barreled rifles/shotguns. Permits only cover handguns. Generally, carrying an unloaded long gun in a case to/from the range, gun shop, or other legitimate firearm business is not an issue. Nevada law enforcement is expected to use discretion and common sense. (NRS 202.350)
1. Except as otherwise provided in this section and NRS 202.3653 to 202.369, inclusive, a person within this State shall not:
(d) Carry concealed upon his or her person any:
(3) Pistol, revolver or other firearm, other dangerous or deadly weapon or pneumatic gun.
A handgun is defined by the NRS to be a firearm which has a short stock and is designed to be held and fired by the use of a single hand, citing 18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(29). Whether AR-style pistols are considered pistols has not been officially been decided by the state, the explicit reference to the federal definition would indicate they are indeed considered handguns.
As a licensed concealed carrier, is my personal information public record?
No. Bare statistics, such as how many permits have been issued are permissible public records, but personally identifying information is only available to law enforcement officers/agencies in their official duties (NRS 202.3662).
Can I get a temporary concealed firearm permit?
In theory, yes. Practically, they are issued very rarely to those who have taken the course of instruction and applied for a permanent permit, usually when a clerical error delays the issuing (or denial) of the permanent permit beyond the 120-day deadline. Issuing temporary permits is solely at the discretion of the sheriff and the expiration date is set by the sheriff.
Background Check Exemption
Most Nevada permittees qualify for an exemption from the requirement to undergo the background check (as they've already been vetted) when buying a firearm from a dealer and paying the $25 fee. The Form 4473 is still completed and a copy of the permit is needed for the dealer's records.
For permits issued on or after July 1, 2011, the permittee would be exempt from the Brady Bill background check when buying from a licensed dealer. Permits issued before this would be invalid because the ATF decertified the state after it was revealed some sheriffs were not complying with certain renewal requirements required to qualify for the exemption. This would not qualify to avoid the duty to obtain a private-sale background check if the universal background check initiative passes in 2016 or if those background checks would still be free.
No. Bare statistics, such as how many permits have been issued are permissible public records, but personally identifying information is only available to law enforcement officers/agencies in their official duties (NRS 202.3662).
Can I get a temporary concealed firearm permit?
In theory, yes. Practically, they are issued very rarely to those who have taken the course of instruction and applied for a permanent permit, usually when a clerical error delays the issuing (or denial) of the permanent permit beyond the 120-day deadline. Issuing temporary permits is solely at the discretion of the sheriff and the expiration date is set by the sheriff.
Background Check Exemption
Most Nevada permittees qualify for an exemption from the requirement to undergo the background check (as they've already been vetted) when buying a firearm from a dealer and paying the $25 fee. The Form 4473 is still completed and a copy of the permit is needed for the dealer's records.
For permits issued on or after July 1, 2011, the permittee would be exempt from the Brady Bill background check when buying from a licensed dealer. Permits issued before this would be invalid because the ATF decertified the state after it was revealed some sheriffs were not complying with certain renewal requirements required to qualify for the exemption. This would not qualify to avoid the duty to obtain a private-sale background check if the universal background check initiative passes in 2016 or if those background checks would still be free.
Non-residents and non-resident permits (reciprocity)
Recognized states are set by the Nevada Sheriffs’ and Chiefs’ Association pursuant to state law. If you hold a recognized permit on the reciprocity list, and you do not reside in Nevada, you may legally carry a concealed firearm in Nevada. Nevada residents must hold a Nevada-issued concealed firearm permit to carry a concealed firearm. Non-resident or out-of-state permits are not recognized for Nevada residents. There is no specific exemption for military members or their spouses. Certain permits for persons 18-20 are recognized by Nevada as long as the permit meets our basic requirements; we do not discriminate based on age.
I just moved to Nevada and I have a CCW from another state. Do I have to go through the Nevada training?
If you have recently become a resident of Nevada and hold a non-resident or out-of-state permit, there is a 60 day grace period if the sheriff of your county has not issued you a Nevada permit. For example, if you hold a concealed firearm permit from Arizona, but you live in Laughlin, it would be illegal to carry a concealed firearm in Nevada using an out-of-state permit. If you are moving to Nevada and have an out-of-state permit, you must apply for a resident permit from scratch, including taking the training class. Out-of-state permits or military training/discharge does not count as approved training. CCWs are not like going to DMV and getting a new license without taking the driving test.
Please note, that the requirements for recognition of non-resident permits have recently changed and some states may have been added or dropped.
Are you in the military and have a PCS in Nevada? Thinking of carrying on your "home" state permit? Read this blog post to learn about residency for concealed firearm permit purposes.
Our state, our rules.
Holders of a non-resident concealed firearm permit must abide by the same restrictions in carrying a concealed firearm as they would as if they held Nevada concealed firearm permit (NRS 202.3688). On the plus side, Nevada's concealed carry laws are among the most relaxed among the states that require a permit. You can carry in bars and drink alcohol (don't get intoxicated), in cars, and signage doesn't have the force of law.
Recognized states are set by the Nevada Sheriffs’ and Chiefs’ Association pursuant to state law. If you hold a recognized permit on the reciprocity list, and you do not reside in Nevada, you may legally carry a concealed firearm in Nevada. Nevada residents must hold a Nevada-issued concealed firearm permit to carry a concealed firearm. Non-resident or out-of-state permits are not recognized for Nevada residents. There is no specific exemption for military members or their spouses. Certain permits for persons 18-20 are recognized by Nevada as long as the permit meets our basic requirements; we do not discriminate based on age.
- Utah provisional permits (ages 18-20) are no longer recognized by Nevada (as of 7/01/2021).
- Idaho enhanced permits (21 and older only) permits are the only Idaho permits recognized by Nevada.
- Arizona residents must hold an Arizona or other recognized permit to carry concealed in Nevada.
I just moved to Nevada and I have a CCW from another state. Do I have to go through the Nevada training?
If you have recently become a resident of Nevada and hold a non-resident or out-of-state permit, there is a 60 day grace period if the sheriff of your county has not issued you a Nevada permit. For example, if you hold a concealed firearm permit from Arizona, but you live in Laughlin, it would be illegal to carry a concealed firearm in Nevada using an out-of-state permit. If you are moving to Nevada and have an out-of-state permit, you must apply for a resident permit from scratch, including taking the training class. Out-of-state permits or military training/discharge does not count as approved training. CCWs are not like going to DMV and getting a new license without taking the driving test.
Please note, that the requirements for recognition of non-resident permits have recently changed and some states may have been added or dropped.
Are you in the military and have a PCS in Nevada? Thinking of carrying on your "home" state permit? Read this blog post to learn about residency for concealed firearm permit purposes.
Our state, our rules.
Holders of a non-resident concealed firearm permit must abide by the same restrictions in carrying a concealed firearm as they would as if they held Nevada concealed firearm permit (NRS 202.3688). On the plus side, Nevada's concealed carry laws are among the most relaxed among the states that require a permit. You can carry in bars and drink alcohol (don't get intoxicated), in cars, and signage doesn't have the force of law.
Quick Guide to Reciprocity-Permit Validity Across the States
Where is concealed carry illegal?
Federally prohibited places
Firearms, loaded or unloaded, concealed or openly carried, are prohibited in the following places:
National Parks
Section 512, Credit CARD Act of 2009 (and 54 USC § 104906) changed federal law to make park firearm regulations reflect state law. Typically, the only restrictions on firearm carry are state and local laws. If it is legal elsewhere in the state, it is legal in the park and sections that conflict with state law regarding carrying and possessing firearms (but not shooting bans) do not apply. So though on National Park Service lands (National Parks, Monuments, etc.) carrying a firearm or possessing loaded firearms are prohibited in vehicles (unless one has a special park permit, usually for hunting), this does not apply if the state allows open and/or concealed carry, or loaded/unloaded firearms in vehicles.
The park buildings (visitor centers, offices, etc.) are still federal facilities and off-limits to firearms. Discharge of firearms, except when lawfully hunting, is generally prohibited. Discharge of firearms, except when lawfully hunting, is generally prohibited. NPS pamphlet here. The same applies for National Wildlife Refuges, 16 USC § 1a–7b.
- Inside federal facilities (including courthouses and offices like a Social Security office) 18 U.S. Code § 930;
- On military bases (military personnel should refer to DoD policy and post orders);
- Post Office property (includes the parking lot), but not post-office windows in stores (contract stations), 39 CFR 232.1(l);
- VA hospitals/facilities including federal veterans' cemeteries (carrying) 38 CFR 1.218 (13).
National Parks
Section 512, Credit CARD Act of 2009 (and 54 USC § 104906) changed federal law to make park firearm regulations reflect state law. Typically, the only restrictions on firearm carry are state and local laws. If it is legal elsewhere in the state, it is legal in the park and sections that conflict with state law regarding carrying and possessing firearms (but not shooting bans) do not apply. So though on National Park Service lands (National Parks, Monuments, etc.) carrying a firearm or possessing loaded firearms are prohibited in vehicles (unless one has a special park permit, usually for hunting), this does not apply if the state allows open and/or concealed carry, or loaded/unloaded firearms in vehicles.
The park buildings (visitor centers, offices, etc.) are still federal facilities and off-limits to firearms. Discharge of firearms, except when lawfully hunting, is generally prohibited. Discharge of firearms, except when lawfully hunting, is generally prohibited. NPS pamphlet here. The same applies for National Wildlife Refuges, 16 USC § 1a–7b.
Red Rock National Conservation Area is an exception and does not allow loaded firearms (no magazine/clip inserted, no rounds attached to the weapon or in the chamber). It is not a part of the National Park System and is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. See the supplemental rules section regarding weapons only here. More at the blog and sign the petition here. Shooting on Bureau of Land Management land is permitted in most other areas, subject to local restrictions and county/city ordinances (BLM Recreational Shooting page). National Forest lands in Nevada have no ban on the carry of firearms.
Interstate Transportation Protection 18 USC § 926A
This section was intended to protect innocent passage of travelers who might have a firearm prohibited by local jurisdiction. For instance, a resident of a frontier state driving through California with an 'assault weapon' to another free state. The trip must be from one free state to another, the firearm unloaded, and neither the firearm nor any ammunition is readily accessible from the passenger compartment. In the case of a vehicle without a compartment separate from the driver’s compartment the firearm or ammunition shall be contained in a locked container other than the glove compartment or console.
Airports/Aircraft 49 CFR 1540.111 and 49 USC § 46505
Under federal law (local laws may differ), firearms are prohibited beyond the TSA checkpoints. You also cannot attempt to enter a TSA checkpoint while armed, even by mistake. Check your bags! Even loose ammunition, empty magazines, spent cases, and miscellaneous gun parts have caused problems and prosecutions for travelers. Learn more about the TSA regulations.
Military Bases
Self-defense firearms are generally prohibited on base. New DoD guidelines have been published, but implementation is unknown. Almost uniformly, civilians may not possess firearms on base. Service-members may be required to store their weapons as their commanding officer directs. Check individual base and service branch regulations. Additionally, army regulations are here and the oft-mentioned Bush-era directive is here (reaffirmed in 2011).
Hoover Dam prohibits firearms. More information at the Hoover Dam Police page. 43 CFR 423.30
Indian Reservations
Firearm carry on Indian reservations is a gray area. Some reservations in Nevada do permit concealed carry with a valid concealed firearm permit, however, it may vary. Tribes cannot enforce tribal law on non-tribal members, though they can enforce state and federal law. You may be trespassed from the reservation and have your firearm confiscated. One should contact individual reservation authorities for clarification of their regulations.
Interstate Transportation Protection 18 USC § 926A
This section was intended to protect innocent passage of travelers who might have a firearm prohibited by local jurisdiction. For instance, a resident of a frontier state driving through California with an 'assault weapon' to another free state. The trip must be from one free state to another, the firearm unloaded, and neither the firearm nor any ammunition is readily accessible from the passenger compartment. In the case of a vehicle without a compartment separate from the driver’s compartment the firearm or ammunition shall be contained in a locked container other than the glove compartment or console.
Airports/Aircraft 49 CFR 1540.111 and 49 USC § 46505
Under federal law (local laws may differ), firearms are prohibited beyond the TSA checkpoints. You also cannot attempt to enter a TSA checkpoint while armed, even by mistake. Check your bags! Even loose ammunition, empty magazines, spent cases, and miscellaneous gun parts have caused problems and prosecutions for travelers. Learn more about the TSA regulations.
Military Bases
Self-defense firearms are generally prohibited on base. New DoD guidelines have been published, but implementation is unknown. Almost uniformly, civilians may not possess firearms on base. Service-members may be required to store their weapons as their commanding officer directs. Check individual base and service branch regulations. Additionally, army regulations are here and the oft-mentioned Bush-era directive is here (reaffirmed in 2011).
Hoover Dam prohibits firearms. More information at the Hoover Dam Police page. 43 CFR 423.30
Indian Reservations
Firearm carry on Indian reservations is a gray area. Some reservations in Nevada do permit concealed carry with a valid concealed firearm permit, however, it may vary. Tribes cannot enforce tribal law on non-tribal members, though they can enforce state and federal law. You may be trespassed from the reservation and have your firearm confiscated. One should contact individual reservation authorities for clarification of their regulations.
State prohibited places
. All firearms are prohibited in the following places:
- On the premises of a public or private school, on the property of the Nevada System of Higher Education, or a child care facility without written permission of the college president, school principal, or head of a public child care facility, including in the parking lot (NRS 202.265).
- A private in-home child care facility, except by the homeowner(s) or residents. [Ibid.]
- The legislative building or wherever the legislature is conducting business (NRS 218A.905).
- The secure area of an airport (for instance, employee-only areas or past the TSA checkpoints).
- Inside a building of a public airport (open carry is legal outside of the secure area).
- Inside a public building (government building) with either 'no guns' signs or metal detectors at each public entrance (open carry may be legal). See below for more details.
Schools and Colleges/Universities
It is illegal to have a firearm (including openly carried) on school/college/university/child care facility property without written permission. There is no parking lot exemption in Nevada. Principals, college/university presidents, or the "designated person" of a child care facility can grant permission. No public school district in Nevada has an open policy of arming teachers or allowing parents to be armed on campus. College/university campus carry is extremely difficult to get and requires essentially an active, specific threat for issue. There is no state-level gun free zone off-campus.
Why Child Care Facilities?
This includes in-home daycare, day and overnight camps, and daycare business per NRS 432A.024. A daycare within a business, such as casino would be off-limits, but not the larger business housing the daycare.. Unfortunately, an unprofessional group of bounty hunters attempted to arrest a wanted person and believed that she was at a children's day care. The incident was disturbing to the children and to the owner. The owner then contacted Assemblywoman Smith who, in 2007, successfully had the law amended to prohibit firearms in child care facilities. Click here for the citation from the legislative minutes.
To see what is and isn't a licensed child care facility, visit this DPBH webpage and look for the current list under the 'Resources' right-hand sidebar and click 'Providers.'
Local and State Public Buildings
NRS 202.3673 prohibits concealed carry (not open carry) in public buildings where there are 'no firearm' signs or metal detectors at each public entrance. Signage at public buildings generally does not refer to open carry as the intent is to improperly discourage anyone from carrying at all, openly or not. Exceptions: a judge at their courthouse, a prosecuting attorney employed at the public building, an employee of the public building while he or she is on the premises of the public building where they work, any other permittee who has written permission of a person authorized to grant that permission. Public buildings are government buildings, not businesses and private property merely open to the public.
This includes in-home daycare, day and overnight camps, and daycare business per NRS 432A.024. A daycare within a business, such as casino would be off-limits, but not the larger business housing the daycare.. Unfortunately, an unprofessional group of bounty hunters attempted to arrest a wanted person and believed that she was at a children's day care. The incident was disturbing to the children and to the owner. The owner then contacted Assemblywoman Smith who, in 2007, successfully had the law amended to prohibit firearms in child care facilities. Click here for the citation from the legislative minutes.
To see what is and isn't a licensed child care facility, visit this DPBH webpage and look for the current list under the 'Resources' right-hand sidebar and click 'Providers.'
Local and State Public Buildings
NRS 202.3673 prohibits concealed carry (not open carry) in public buildings where there are 'no firearm' signs or metal detectors at each public entrance. Signage at public buildings generally does not refer to open carry as the intent is to improperly discourage anyone from carrying at all, openly or not. Exceptions: a judge at their courthouse, a prosecuting attorney employed at the public building, an employee of the public building while he or she is on the premises of the public building where they work, any other permittee who has written permission of a person authorized to grant that permission. Public buildings are government buildings, not businesses and private property merely open to the public.
The Legislative Counsel (the state legislature's attorney) found in this opinion that open carry is permissible in public areas of public buildings. Concealed carry is legally restricted in more locations than open carry is.
Two Important Exceptions
Per NRS 202.3673(4)(c) Permittees who are employees of a public building may carry a concealed firearm in that posted building, however, NRS 244.364 (counties), NRS 268.418 (cities), and NRS 269.222 (towns), the state preemption laws, allow local authorities to make their own policies regarding firearms. So while a permittee may carry legally inside the building, they can be disciplined or fired if they carry in violation of their employer's ban on carrying firearms.
If the permittee has received written permission from the person in control of the public building to carry a concealed firearm, they may do so, but permission is rarely granted. Employees in a public building (except a school) can carry concealed, but are not exempted from their employer's policies which may ban firearms.
Two Important Exceptions
Per NRS 202.3673(4)(c) Permittees who are employees of a public building may carry a concealed firearm in that posted building, however, NRS 244.364 (counties), NRS 268.418 (cities), and NRS 269.222 (towns), the state preemption laws, allow local authorities to make their own policies regarding firearms. So while a permittee may carry legally inside the building, they can be disciplined or fired if they carry in violation of their employer's ban on carrying firearms.
If the permittee has received written permission from the person in control of the public building to carry a concealed firearm, they may do so, but permission is rarely granted. Employees in a public building (except a school) can carry concealed, but are not exempted from their employer's policies which may ban firearms.
This sign lists the section that defines "firearm."
"Public" means a government building (owned by cities, the state, counties, local districts, etc.). This does not mean private property open to the public, like casinos, stores, and other businesses.
Private Property
Yes, legally you can carry on private property (except private schools and daycares) even if there is a 'no guns' sign. The NRS citation on signs are for non-applicable sections, are nonsense, or just the trespassing law. However, most indoor malls and casinos will ask you to disarm or leave the property if you are discovered. All they can do is ask you to disarm or tell you to leave. Failure to do so would be a trespassing violation. Private property owners have the right to choose to allow or prohibit firearms. State preemption does not apply on private property, which includes HOA property. See below for a partial list of known anti-gun locations.
Private Property
Yes, legally you can carry on private property (except private schools and daycares) even if there is a 'no guns' sign. The NRS citation on signs are for non-applicable sections, are nonsense, or just the trespassing law. However, most indoor malls and casinos will ask you to disarm or leave the property if you are discovered. All they can do is ask you to disarm or tell you to leave. Failure to do so would be a trespassing violation. Private property owners have the right to choose to allow or prohibit firearms. State preemption does not apply on private property, which includes HOA property. See below for a partial list of known anti-gun locations.
Can I carry concealed on private property or in my home?
No. Concealed carry without a permit is illegal everywhere in the state. While it is unlikely you will be arrested for carrying a concealed firearm without a permit on your own private property, it is not legal. See NRS 202.350 1.(d)
Do I have to obey ‘no guns’ signs on private property?
No, signs do not have the force of law in Nevada on private property. If the owner or management wants you to leave or disarm, you must comply or you can be arrested for trespassing. Making sure that the owner or corporate management knows they lost your business for denying you the right to lawfully carry is a good course of action. The majority of Nevada businesses are firearm friendly.
Can I carry concealed at the mall? Can I carry concealed at a casino?
Yes, legally you can carry on private property (except private schools and daycares) even if there is a 'no guns' sign. However, most indoor malls and casinos will ask you to disarm or leave the property if you are discovered. All they can do is ask you to disarm or tell you to leave. Failure to do so would be a trespassing violation.
No. Concealed carry without a permit is illegal everywhere in the state. While it is unlikely you will be arrested for carrying a concealed firearm without a permit on your own private property, it is not legal. See NRS 202.350 1.(d)
Do I have to obey ‘no guns’ signs on private property?
No, signs do not have the force of law in Nevada on private property. If the owner or management wants you to leave or disarm, you must comply or you can be arrested for trespassing. Making sure that the owner or corporate management knows they lost your business for denying you the right to lawfully carry is a good course of action. The majority of Nevada businesses are firearm friendly.
Can I carry concealed at the mall? Can I carry concealed at a casino?
Yes, legally you can carry on private property (except private schools and daycares) even if there is a 'no guns' sign. However, most indoor malls and casinos will ask you to disarm or leave the property if you are discovered. All they can do is ask you to disarm or tell you to leave. Failure to do so would be a trespassing violation.
Why is it illegal to carry a firearm in a bag or case without a permit?
Nevada law does not provide an exemption for carry a firearm in a bag or case, loaded or unloaded, as distinct from concealed carry in a self-defense meaning. “Concealed firearm” is a loaded or unloaded handgun which is carried upon a person in such a manner as not to be discernible by ordinary observation (NRS 202.3653). An opinion from the Attorney General on what constitutes 'concealed' found:
Nevada law does not provide an exemption for carry a firearm in a bag or case, loaded or unloaded, as distinct from concealed carry in a self-defense meaning. “Concealed firearm” is a loaded or unloaded handgun which is carried upon a person in such a manner as not to be discernible by ordinary observation (NRS 202.3653). An opinion from the Attorney General on what constitutes 'concealed' found:
It is our opinion that the language of NRS 202.350 would be narrowly construed to include only those concealed weapons which are actually on the person or in a container carried by the person.
Firearms in a bag or container attached to your bike, motorcycle, or wheelchair, and not over your shoulder, etc., even though they are within arm's reach, are not considered to be illegally concealed. Read more at the blog.
Can I carry concealed in a bar? Can I drink while carrying?
There is no law against carrying open or concealed in bar or while drinking, however, it is a crime to be in possession of firearm when one’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 or greater (NRS 202.257). AB 291 (2019) changed this from .10.
Do I need to carry my blue card with me when I carry my gun?
No. The 'blue card' system has recently been abolished. A blue card was never a license to carry a firearm, simply a receipt of registration. Concealed carry requires a concealed firearms permit.
I have a non-resident permit from another state, but I live in Nevada. Can I carry concealed?
No. You must have a Nevada permit to carry a concealed firearm if you reside in the state, but new residents have a 60 day grace period until they must have a Nevada permit to carry concealed legally in Nevada. CA, DC, HI, IL, MA, MD, NJ, NY (no/may-issue states) residents: You do not have to have a permit issued by your home state; this includes all non-resident permits recognized by Nevada (see maps for recognized states). NRS 202.3688
I'm from Arizona or another constitutional carry state and don't have a permit. Can I carry concealed in Nevada? No, you must have a concealed firearm permit in your home state or a non-resident state that Nevada recognizes, or a non-resident Nevada permit. Open carry does not require a permit.
Can I carry concealed without a permit in my house/private property?
State law makes no such provisions for that, though enforcement would be almost impossible.
Concealed carry is better than open carry because surprise will work to my advantage.
The idea behind this is that an openly carried weapon may make the carrier a primary target of the criminal/terrorist. The concealed carrier would blend in with the crowd, and then draw at when it was to their advantage.
This assumption is generally false in the absence of evidence that an openly carried weapon leads to victimization. Abundant evidence is available that open carry is indeed a deterrent to crime. Concealed carry lacks that deterrent factor. The 'gray man' element, appearing unremarkable and blending in with the crowd, only has application when one may be specifically sought out; such as in the case of a police officer. The desire not to be spotted carrying a firearm or otherwise identified typically comes from the police influence in the concealed carry training world.
The advantage of concealed carry lies in the fact that it may be possible to carry in places where open carriers would be shunned or asked to leave, such as casinos. Legally speaking, the advantage is with open carry, yet due to modern sensitivities, the discreet option of undetected concealed carry would prevent any debates with anti-gunners or objections to having the weapon on private property where the owner/management might prohibit it. Also, given one’s choice of dress or activities, concealed carry may be more appropriate.
The debate is largely a matter of taste and environment. A citizen carrier with anti-gun customers or friends may want to protect themselves without alienating others. Some may feel uncomfortable carrying openly. Whatever the choice, it is a personal one and not to be judged or criticized.
Open carry and concealed carry each have their own unique advantages and disadvantages; neither is inherently superior to the other. Both methods complement each other and allow for flexibility in self-defense.
There is no law against carrying open or concealed in bar or while drinking, however, it is a crime to be in possession of firearm when one’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 or greater (NRS 202.257). AB 291 (2019) changed this from .10.
Do I need to carry my blue card with me when I carry my gun?
No. The 'blue card' system has recently been abolished. A blue card was never a license to carry a firearm, simply a receipt of registration. Concealed carry requires a concealed firearms permit.
I have a non-resident permit from another state, but I live in Nevada. Can I carry concealed?
No. You must have a Nevada permit to carry a concealed firearm if you reside in the state, but new residents have a 60 day grace period until they must have a Nevada permit to carry concealed legally in Nevada. CA, DC, HI, IL, MA, MD, NJ, NY (no/may-issue states) residents: You do not have to have a permit issued by your home state; this includes all non-resident permits recognized by Nevada (see maps for recognized states). NRS 202.3688
I'm from Arizona or another constitutional carry state and don't have a permit. Can I carry concealed in Nevada? No, you must have a concealed firearm permit in your home state or a non-resident state that Nevada recognizes, or a non-resident Nevada permit. Open carry does not require a permit.
Can I carry concealed without a permit in my house/private property?
State law makes no such provisions for that, though enforcement would be almost impossible.
Concealed carry is better than open carry because surprise will work to my advantage.
The idea behind this is that an openly carried weapon may make the carrier a primary target of the criminal/terrorist. The concealed carrier would blend in with the crowd, and then draw at when it was to their advantage.
This assumption is generally false in the absence of evidence that an openly carried weapon leads to victimization. Abundant evidence is available that open carry is indeed a deterrent to crime. Concealed carry lacks that deterrent factor. The 'gray man' element, appearing unremarkable and blending in with the crowd, only has application when one may be specifically sought out; such as in the case of a police officer. The desire not to be spotted carrying a firearm or otherwise identified typically comes from the police influence in the concealed carry training world.
The advantage of concealed carry lies in the fact that it may be possible to carry in places where open carriers would be shunned or asked to leave, such as casinos. Legally speaking, the advantage is with open carry, yet due to modern sensitivities, the discreet option of undetected concealed carry would prevent any debates with anti-gunners or objections to having the weapon on private property where the owner/management might prohibit it. Also, given one’s choice of dress or activities, concealed carry may be more appropriate.
The debate is largely a matter of taste and environment. A citizen carrier with anti-gun customers or friends may want to protect themselves without alienating others. Some may feel uncomfortable carrying openly. Whatever the choice, it is a personal one and not to be judged or criticized.
Open carry and concealed carry each have their own unique advantages and disadvantages; neither is inherently superior to the other. Both methods complement each other and allow for flexibility in self-defense.
Click image to learn more about AZ, ID, MT, NM, WA, and WY constitutional carry
Join the Nevada Firearms Coalition
The Nevada Firearms Coalition is the statewide organization affiliated with the NRA. There are great membership benefits waiting for you! The NVFAC Foundation is a tax deductible charity that promotes the shooting sports, conservation, firearm safety and shooting education. The NVFAC PAC is the political and lobbying arm of the coalition.
The Nevada Firearms Coalition is the statewide organization affiliated with the NRA. There are great membership benefits waiting for you! The NVFAC Foundation is a tax deductible charity that promotes the shooting sports, conservation, firearm safety and shooting education. The NVFAC PAC is the political and lobbying arm of the coalition.