No Permit Required to Carry a Handgun in Indiana

Last week, Governor Holcomb signed House Bill 1296, which repeals Indiana’s law requiring a person to obtain a license to carry a handgun in public. This means starting on July 1, 2022, people ages 18 and older do not need to have a permit to carry a handgun (open or concealed) in Indiana. Many refer to this as “Constitutional Carry” because of the Second Amendment—which provides, “the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

The signing of H.B. 1269 makes Indiana one of 23 states allowing permit-less carry of handguns to some degree. However, the new law does not provide everyone unrestricted freedom to own and carry a firearm. H.B. 1269 does not change state and federal laws regarding the purchase of a handgun. Specifically, purchasing a handgun will still require a background check and completion of the required Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives form. Additionally, people who are currently prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law (such as those with a felony conviction) will still not be allowed to own or carry a firearm. Handguns still will not be allowed in all public and private places. For example, firearms will still be banned in schools, federal buildings, and similar institutions.

Many neighboring states still require a handgun license to carry in the state. Because of this, Indiana will still offer handgun licenses to those who want one. See the list of states that have reciprocity with Indiana (i.e., states that honor an Indiana handgun license) here. If you have any questions or want to know about Constitutional Carry, feel free to call the attorneys at McNeelyLaw.

This McNeelyLaw LLP publication should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion of any specific facts or circumstances. The contents are intended for general informational purposes only, and you are urged to consult your own lawyer on any specific legal questions you may have concerning your situation.