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Alabama pistol permits and concealed carry

You no longer need a permit to carry in Alabama. Here is who can carry, why a permit is still worth having, and where to get one.

Permitless carry

Since January 1, 2023, anyone 19 or older (18 for active-duty military, veterans and law enforcement) who can legally own a handgun may carry it concealed or openly in Alabama without a permit, including loaded in a vehicle. The places where guns are banned, such as courthouses, jails, police stations and school property, still apply.

Why get a permit anyway

Permitless carry stops at the state line. Many other states honor an Alabama pistol permit, so if you drive to Georgia, Tennessee, Florida or Mississippi with a gun, the permit is the easy way to stay legal. Permits are shall-issue and come from your county sheriff; each county sets its own fees, and many offer one- to five-year and lifetime permits.

Your county sheriff

Our city pages list the sheriff's office for each area:

Choosing a carry pistol

Most Alabama carriers pick a compact or subcompact 9mm: small enough to hide under a T-shirt in August, with 10 to 15 rounds on board. Pick one you can shoot well, then practise with it.

Carry pistols

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Common questions

Do I need a pistol permit in Alabama?

Not to carry in Alabama. Since January 1, 2023 anyone 19 or older (18 for active military, veterans and law enforcement) who can legally own a handgun may carry concealed without one. A permit is optional and mostly useful when you travel.

Who issues pistol permits in Alabama?

Your county sheriff. Permits are shall-issue: the sheriff must issue one to an applicant who is not prohibited from having a firearm.

How much does an Alabama pistol permit cost?

Each county sets its own fees. One-year permits are commonly around $15 to $25, many counties offer multi-year permits, and lifetime permits are widely available (often around $300, less for applicants 60 and older). Check your sheriff's office for the exact price.

Is training required?

Alabama does not require a training course for a pistol permit. A class is still the best money a new carrier can spend.

Do I need a permit to buy a handgun?

No. Alabama has no purchase permit. You buy from a licensed dealer with ATF Form 4473 and a federal background check.

Will other states honor my Alabama carry?

Many states honor an Alabama pistol permit, but permitless carry only counts inside Alabama. If you drive to other states, get the permit and check each state's reciprocity before you go.

More Alabama guides

General information, not legal advice. Current as of September 2026. Your county sheriff has the official forms and fees.