Since November 1, 2019, most adults in Oklahoma can carry a handgun, openly or concealed, without a license. Permitless carry applies to people 21 and older, and to military members 18 and older, who are not otherwise prohibited from possessing firearms. Carrying in a prohibited place, or carrying while prohibited, can still lead to criminal charges.
Key Takeaways
- Permitless carry applies to eligible adults 21+, and to military members 18+.
- Prohibited persons, such as felons, cannot carry at all.
- Certain places remain off-limits even with permitless carry.
- A handgun license is still useful for reciprocity in other states.
Who Can Carry Without a License
To carry without a license, you generally must be at least 21 (or 18 with qualifying military service), must not be barred from possessing firearms, and must not be carrying while intoxicated. People with felony convictions, certain mental health adjudications, and some others remain prohibited. See felon in possession of a firearm.
Prohibited Places
Oklahoma law, including 21 O.S. § 1277, restricts carrying in a number of locations. These generally include:
- Government buildings, courthouses, and jails or prisons.
- Schools and many school events, subject to limited exceptions.
- College and university property, unless an exception applies.
- Professional sporting events and certain large venues.
- Places where the primary business is selling alcohol for on-site consumption.
- Private property where the owner prohibits firearms.
The list has exceptions and has changed several times, so check current law or ask a lawyer before carrying somewhere you are unsure about.
Carrying in a Vehicle
Eligible adults may generally carry in a vehicle. If you are stopped, being calm and following instructions matters. People who are prohibited from possessing firearms face charges if a gun is found within their control in a car. See how constructive possession works in our felon in possession guide.
Defending Unlawful Carry Charges
- Eligibility: you were legally allowed to carry.
- Location: the place was not actually a prohibited place, or an exception applied.
- Possession: the gun was not yours or not under your control.
- Search: the stop or search that found the gun was unlawful.
Learn more on our Oklahoma City gun charges lawyer page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oklahoma a permitless carry state?
Yes. Since November 1, 2019, eligible adults 21 and older, and military members 18 and older, can carry handguns openly or concealed without a license.
Where can't you carry a gun in Oklahoma?
Restricted places generally include government buildings, courthouses, jails, schools, many college properties, professional sporting events, bars, and private property where the owner prohibits firearms.
Can a felon carry under permitless carry?
No. Permitless carry does not apply to people prohibited from possessing firearms, including felons.
Should I still get a handgun license?
Many people do, because an Oklahoma license helps with carrying legally in other states that recognize it.
Talk to an Oklahoma City Gun Charges Lawyer
Weapons charges can bring prison time and the permanent loss of your gun rights. Call (405) 605-8380 or request a free consultation to have your case reviewed.
This article is general information about Oklahoma law, not legal advice. Laws change, and every case depends on its facts. Contact an attorney about your specific situation.
