CARRY STATUS
CONCEALED101SOUTH REGION · AL
Alabama
Concealed Carry Guide
Alabama allows permitless concealed carry for people who may lawfully possess a handgun. Residents may still request an Alabama pistol permit from their county sheriff.
Before you rely on this guide
This is a plain-language starting point, not legal advice. Eligibility, restricted locations, local rules, court orders, and reciprocity can change. Confirm the current law with the official agencies linked on this page.
AT A GLANCE
Alabama carry overview
STATE PERMIT
Available
ISSUING AUTHORITY
County sheriff
LAST REVIEWED
August 16, 2026
01
PERMIT AND CARRY STATUS
What the statewide framework says
Alabama allows permitless concealed carry for people who may lawfully possess a handgun. Residents may still request an Alabama pistol permit from their county sheriff.
02
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
Training before an application
Alabama does not set a statewide training course as a condition for the standard pistol permit. Voluntary safety and live-fire instruction are still strongly recommended.
Practical next step: Ask the issuing authority whether your instructor, course format, certificate, and live-fire qualification satisfy the current application rules before paying for a class.
Browse training in Alabama →03
NONRESIDENTS AND TRAVEL
Crossing a state line changes the rules
Alabama recognizes permits from other states, but eligibility and exceptions must be checked before travel. Alabama permits are generally handled through county sheriffs for residents.
Reciprocity caution: Recognition of a permit does not make every rule identical. Vehicle carry, notice signs, prohibited places, duty to inform, alcohol-related locations, and magazine or firearm restrictions may differ.
VERIFY WITH PRIMARY SOURCES
Official Alabama references
Use these sources for current application forms, eligibility language, statutory changes, and agency notices.