How to Get a Concealed Carry Permit in Arizona (2026 Guide)

Arizona allows constitutional carry, meaning most adults who can legally possess a handgun may carry it concealed without obtaining a permit. However, Arizona still issues Concealed Weapons Permits (CWPs), and many gun owners choose to get one because it provides reciprocity with many other states, simplifies interstate travel, and may offer additional benefits under state law.

Most applicants must be at least 21 years old, complete an approved firearms safety course or qualify for a training exemption, submit an application through the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS), and pass a background check. Arizona Concealed Weapons Permits are generally valid for five years and remain a smart choice for anyone who travels with a firearm.

Does Arizona Require a Concealed Carry Permit?

No. Arizona is a constitutional carry state, allowing most adults who are legally allowed to possess a firearm to carry a concealed handgun without first obtaining a permit.

Even though a permit isn't required within Arizona, many residents still obtain an Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit because it is recognized by many other states. If you travel frequently, a permit can make carrying legally outside Arizona much easier.

Concealed Carry Permit Requirements at a Glance

How to Get an Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit

Getting an Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit generally involves these steps:

1. Verify you meet Arizona's eligibility requirements.
2. Complete an approved firearms safety course or qualify for an exemption.
3. Gather your application materials.
4. Submit your application to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
5. Complete fingerprinting and the required background investigation.
6. Receive your permit after approval.

Applications may be submitted by mail using the Arizona DPS application packet.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for an Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit, applicants generally must:

• Be at least 21 years old.
• Be legally eligible to possess firearms under state and federal law.
• Complete an approved training course or qualify for a statutory exemption.
• Successfully pass the required background investigation.

Common Reasons Applications Are Denied

Applications may be denied if you:

• Have a felony conviction.
• Have certain domestic violence convictions.
• Are prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law.
• Have disqualifying mental health commitments.
• Submit false or incomplete information.
• Fail the background investigation.

Training Requirements

Although Arizona does not require a permit to carry concealed, applicants must demonstrate firearms competency to receive a Concealed Weapons Permit.

Approved training may include:

• Arizona-approved firearms safety courses.
• NRA firearms instruction.
• Hunter education programs.
• Military firearms training.
• Law enforcement firearms qualification.
• Other qualifying training recognized under Arizona law.

Training Checklist

• Complete an approved firearms safety course or verify your exemption.
• Keep proof of training.
• Learn Arizona self-defense and carry laws.
• Practice regularly with your carry firearm.
• Review reciprocity laws before traveling.

Many active-duty military members, veterans, and current or former law enforcement officers may qualify for training exemptions.

Application Process

Applications are processed by the Arizona Department of Public Safety Concealed Weapons Permit Unit.

Applicants generally should provide:

• Government-issued photo identification.
• Completed application.
• Fingerprint cards.
• Proof of firearms training or exemption.
• Application fee.
• Any additional documentation requested by DPS.

Arizona DPS conducts state and federal background checks before issuing a permit.

Permit Costs and Processing Times

Applicants should expect:

• Initial application fee of approximately $60.
• Fingerprinting costs.
• Firearms training costs, if applicable.
• Renewal fees every five years.

Arizona DPS generally processes completed applications within 75 days, although many are completed sooner.

Common delays include:

• Missing documentation.
• Incomplete applications.
• Fingerprint processing issues.
• Background investigation delays.

Permit Renewal

Arizona Concealed Weapons Permits are generally valid for five years.

To renew:

• Submit a renewal application before expiration.
• Pay the renewal fee.
• Update any required personal information.

Renewing on time helps maintain uninterrupted reciprocity when traveling.

Non-Resident Permits

Arizona issues Concealed Weapons Permits to both residents and non-residents who meet the state's eligibility requirements.

Because Arizona permits are recognized by many states, non-residents often obtain one to expand their reciprocity options.

Why Get a Permit if Arizona Allows Constitutional Carry?

The biggest reason is reciprocity.

Although constitutional carry allows eligible adults to carry without a permit inside Arizona, many states only recognize an official Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit.

Additional benefits include:

• Reciprocity with many other states.
• Easier interstate travel.
• Official proof of concealed carry eligibility.
• Potential exemptions from the federal NICS check when purchasing firearms if federal and state requirements are met.
• Greater confidence when carrying outside Arizona.

For anyone who travels regularly, an Arizona permit remains one of the most widely recognized concealed carry permits in the country.

Common Mistakes First-Time Applicants Make

• Assuming constitutional carry applies in every state.
• Forgetting to include fingerprint cards.
• Submitting incomplete paperwork.
• Waiting until just before traveling to apply.
• Not keeping proof of training.
• Missing renewal deadlines.
• Failing to verify reciprocity before crossing state lines.
• Relying on outdated firearm laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to carry concealed in Arizona?

No. Arizona allows constitutional carry for most adults who may legally possess a firearm.

Is firearms training required for an Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit?

Yes. Applicants must complete approved firearms training or qualify for a statutory exemption.

How long is an Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit valid?

Arizona permits are generally valid for five years.

Can non-residents obtain an Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit?

Yes. Arizona issues permits to qualifying residents and non-residents.

Why should I get a permit if Arizona allows constitutional carry?

An Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit provides reciprocity with many other states, making interstate travel with a firearm much easier while offering additional legal benefits under certain circumstances.