How do I get a concealed carry permit in Alabama?

Q: How do I get a concealed carry permit in Alabama?

Alabama's concealed carry framework is governed by Ala. Code § 13A-11-73 (Pistol Permits) and Act 2022-133 (Constitutional Carry Act, effective January 1, 2023). 1. Permitless Carry (Act 2022-133) - Effective January 1, 2023 . - Adults 19+ not prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law may carry concealed without a pistol permit. - Must still inform law enforcement upon request during a stop. 2. Why Get an Optional Pistol Permit? - Reciprocity with 30+ states. - Easier for firearm purchases (some federal exemptions). - Lawful carry in some posted locations and vehicles in specific contexts. 3. Pistol Permit Eligibility (§ 13A-11-75) - At least 18 years old . - Alabama resident. - U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. - Not prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal or state law. - No history of mental commitment, domestic violence conviction, or unlawful drug use. 4. No Training Required - Alabama does not require a firearms training course. 5. Application - Apply in person at your county sheriff's office . - Submit one-page application, photo ID, and fee. 6. Fees - $20 (1-year permit). - $100 (5-year permit). - Lifetime permits available in some counties ($150-$500 depending on age). 7. Processing - Generally 30 days or less. 8. Restricted Locations (§ 13A-11-61.2) - Police stations, courthouses, jails, mental health facilities, polling places on election day, professional/college athletic events, and posted private property. - Schools have specific federal and state rules. 9. Renewal - Renewable for chosen term (1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 years); no re-training required. This is legal information, not legal advice.

Question

Accepted Answer

Alabama's concealed carry framework is governed by Ala. Code § 13A-11-73 (Pistol Permits) and Act 2022-133 (Constitutional Carry Act, effective January 1, 2023).

1. Permitless Carry (Act 2022-133)

Effective January 1, 2023.

Adults 19+ not prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law may carry concealed without a pistol permit.

Must still inform law enforcement upon request during a stop.

2. Why Get an Optional Pistol Permit?

Reciprocity with 30+ states.

Easier for firearm purchases (some federal exemptions).

Lawful carry in some posted locations and vehicles in specific contexts.

3. Pistol Permit Eligibility (§ 13A-11-75)

At least 18 years old.

Alabama resident.

U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

Not prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal or state law.

No history of mental commitment, domestic violence conviction, or unlawful drug use.

4. No Training Required

Alabama does not require a firearms training course.

5. Application

Apply in person at your county sheriff's office.

Submit one-page application, photo ID, and fee.

6. Fees

$20 (1-year permit).

$100 (5-year permit).

Lifetime permits available in some counties ($150-$500 depending on age).

7. Processing

Generally 30 days or less.

8. Restricted Locations (§ 13A-11-61.2)

Police stations, courthouses, jails, mental health facilities, polling places on election day, professional/college athletic events, and posted private property.

Schools have specific federal and state rules.

9. Renewal

Renewable for chosen term (1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 years); no re-training required.

This is legal information, not legal advice.