Arkansas Handgun Laws: Purchase, Carry, and Prohibitions

Purchase Requirements

Age 18–20

• Permit to Purchase required (from Arkansas State Police)
• Background check + handgun safety course

Age 21+

• No permit needed to purchase
• Federal background check (NICS) at dealer

Prohibited Persons

• Under 18
• Felony conviction
• Adjudicated mental defective/committed
• Substance addiction
• Felony indictment
• Renounced U.S. citizenship
• Dishonorable discharge
• Domestic violence misdemeanor / protective order (federal)

Carry Laws

Concealed Carry

• CHL (Concealed Handgun Carry License) available at 18+
• Training + background check required
• Enhanced CHL (more training) allows carry in more locations

Open Carry

• Permitted without license for adults 18+ (not prohibited persons)
• Handgun must be visible (not concealed)

Recent Change

2023: Arkansas adopted constitutional carry (Act 777), allowing permitless concealed carry for adults 21+ (18+ with military service). CHL still available for reciprocity.

Disclaimer

Laws change. Consult Arkansas State Police or a qualified attorney for current guidance.