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

Indiana allows constitutional carry, meaning most adults who can legally possess a handgun may carry it openly or concealed without obtaining a permit. However, Indiana still issues Licenses to Carry Handguns (LTCH), and many gun owners continue to apply because they provide reciprocity with many other states and can make interstate travel much easier. Most applicants must be at least 18 years old, meet Indiana and federal firearm eligibility requirements, submit an online application, complete fingerprinting if required, and pass a background check. Indiana issues lifetime and five-year licenses, making an LTCH a valuable option for anyone who travels with a firearm.

See our Full guide on: How to Get a Concealed Carry Permit

Does Indiana Require a Concealed Carry Permit?

No. Indiana does not require a permit to carry a concealed handgun for most adults who may legally possess a firearm. The state adopted constitutional carry in 2022, allowing eligible individuals to carry without first obtaining a License to Carry Handgun.

Even so, many Hoosiers still obtain an Indiana LTCH because it provides reciprocity with numerous other states. If you frequently travel outside Indiana, having a permit can simplify lawful concealed carry across state lines.

Concealed Carry Permit Requirements at a Glance

How to Get an Indiana License to Carry Handgun

Getting an Indiana License to Carry Handgun generally involves these steps:

1. Verify you meet Indiana's eligibility requirements.
2. Complete the online application through the Indiana State Police.
3. Schedule fingerprinting if required.
4. Complete the background investigation.
5. Receive your license after approval.

Many applicants complete nearly the entire process online before any in-person requirements.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for an Indiana License to Carry Handgun, applicants generally must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be legally eligible to possess a firearm under state and federal law.
• Meet Indiana residency requirements or qualify as an eligible non-resident.
• Successfully complete 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.
• Are subject to qualifying protective orders.
• Have disqualifying mental health adjudications.
• Submit false or incomplete information.

Training Requirements

Indiana does not require firearms training to obtain a License to Carry Handgun.

Although training is optional, it is highly recommended for anyone who plans to carry concealed. A quality training course can help you develop safe firearm handling habits, improve your shooting skills, and better understand Indiana's self-defense laws.

Training Checklist

• Complete a handgun safety course.
• Learn Indiana firearm laws.
• Practice drawing safely from concealment.
• Train regularly with your carry firearm.
• Review reciprocity laws before traveling.

Application Process

Indiana applications are submitted through the Indiana State Police online licensing portal.

Applicants generally should prepare:

• Government-issued photo identification.
• Proof of residency if requested.
• Completed online application.
• Fingerprints if required.
• Any additional documentation requested during the review process.

After submission, the Indiana State Police conduct state and federal background checks before issuing the license.

Permit Costs and Processing Times

Applicants should expect:

• No state application fee for most standard licenses.
• Fingerprinting costs if required.
• Replacement fees if a license is lost or updated.
• Processing times that vary based on application volume and background checks.

Common delays include:

• Incomplete applications.
• Fingerprinting appointment delays.
• Missing documentation.
• Background investigation issues.

Permit Renewal

Indiana offers both five-year and lifetime Licenses to Carry Handguns.

Five-year licenses must be renewed before expiration. Lifetime licenses do not require renewal, although permit holders should update their information if required by law after a name or address change.

Non-Resident Permits

Indiana may issue Licenses to Carry Handguns to qualifying non-residents who have a regular place of business or employment in Indiana.

If you recently moved to Indiana or work in the state, review the current Indiana State Police eligibility requirements before applying.

Why Get a Permit if Indiana Allows Constitutional Carry?

The biggest reason is reciprocity.

Although constitutional carry allows eligible adults to carry without a permit inside Indiana, many other states only recognize an actual Indiana License to Carry Handgun.

A permit also provides:

• Reciprocity with many states.
• Easier interstate travel.
• Official proof of carry eligibility.
• Additional confidence when traveling.
• A lifetime licensing option for many applicants.

If you travel frequently, an Indiana LTCH remains a smart investment.

Common Mistakes First-Time Applicants Make

• Assuming constitutional carry applies nationwide.
• Waiting until just before a trip to apply.
• Skipping firearms training because it isn't required.
• Submitting incomplete online applications.
• Missing fingerprint appointments if required.
• Forgetting to update personal information.
• Not checking reciprocity before traveling.
• Carrying in prohibited locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to carry concealed in Indiana?

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

Does Indiana still issue concealed carry permits?

Yes. Indiana continues to issue Licenses to Carry Handguns even though a permit is no longer required for most in-state concealed carry.

Is firearms training required to obtain an Indiana LTCH?

No. Indiana does not require firearms training, although it is strongly recommended.

Does Indiana offer a lifetime concealed carry license?

Yes. Indiana offers both five-year and lifetime Licenses to Carry Handguns for qualifying applicants.

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

An Indiana LTCH provides reciprocity with many other states, making it much easier to legally carry while traveling.