Ohio’s laws surrounding concealed carry are designed to ensure that those who wish to carry a concealed firearm have the training and understanding necessary to do so safely and legally. The permit process involves a few key steps, including application, training, and background checks, all of which are intended to protect the rights of responsible gun owners while keeping communities safe. Understanding the legal requirements is essential, as it allows individuals to stay compliant with Ohio law and avoid potential legal issues. Knowing what is required and how the process works can help those interested in carrying a concealed weapon feel confident as they go through the necessary steps. At, Sabol & Mallory Law Firm , we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Dan Sabol
Dan is the first attorney in Ohio to be both board certified in criminal trial law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy and be designated as a Lawyer Scientist by the American Chemical Society.
Chase Mallory
Chase Mallory is a firm founder whom has tried over 40 cases and conducted more than 100 suppression hearings. He is a founding member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association
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Learn more about our teamWho Can Apply for a Concealed Carry Permit in Ohio?
In Ohio, there are specific requirements that applicants must meet before they are eligible to apply for a concealed carry permit. First, an applicant must be at least 21 years old. This age requirement is in place to ensure that applicants have the maturity and judgment required to handle the responsibilities that come with carrying a concealed weapon. Additionally, the applicant must be a legal resident of the United States and a resident of Ohio for at least 45 days before applying. They also need to live in the county where they are applying, or an adjoining county, for at least 30 days. Meeting these residency requirements shows a commitment to Ohio and provides the state with information on those who seek to carry concealed firearms.
Applicants must not have any disqualifying criminal convictions. Ohio law prohibits individuals with certain felonies and misdemeanors on their record from obtaining a concealed carry permit. These include violent crimes, certain drug offenses, and other specific violations that the state believes may indicate a lack of responsibility in handling firearms. By enforcing these requirements, Ohio helps to ensure that only law-abiding citizens can obtain a permit. Mental health also plays a role in determining eligibility. Individuals with certain mental health conditions or those who have been involuntarily committed are generally disqualified from obtaining a concealed carry permit. This helps ensure that applicants are mentally capable of carrying and using a firearm safely.
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Chase Mallory is incredible. He is wonderful to work with and knows exactly what to do to help his clients. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you've done for me. I highly recommend hiring Chase to help fight your battles. Bless you!
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Dan Sabol is probably the best attorney I've ever worked with. Very professional and worked hard to get the best results possible. He will be the first person I call if I need a lawyer again. If you find yourself in a sticky situation make sure you give him a ring.
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I had the pleasure of working with Dan and Chase and I am very grateful!! They did amazing work to help me on my case. They are very helpful and get back with you in a timely manner whenever I had questions for them, which was very nice and reassuring.
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The Application Process for Ohio’s Concealed Carry Permit
Applying for an Ohio concealed carry permit is a straightforward process but requires attention to detail to ensure everything is completed correctly. Applicants must fill out an official application form provided by their local sheriff’s office. This form collects information necessary to confirm the applicant’s eligibility and background. In addition to the completed application, applicants must provide a valid photo ID, proof of residency, and proof of the required firearms training course. These documents help confirm that the applicant meets all residency, age, and training requirements.
Once the application is completed and all necessary documents are gathered, the next step involves submitting fingerprints. This part of the process is critical because it allows law enforcement to conduct a background check. By submitting fingerprints, applicants help confirm that they have no disqualifying criminal history. The background check is thorough, checking state and federal records to ensure that the applicant has a clean criminal record and no restrictions that would prevent them from lawfully carrying a concealed firearm. If the background check is successful and there are no issues, the sheriff’s office will approve the application and issue the permit. Once issued, the permit is valid for five years.
Required Firearms Training
Ohio requires that all applicants for a concealed carry permit complete a firearms training course from an approved instructor. This training is essential for anyone who intends to carry a concealed weapon, as it provides education on both the practical and legal aspects of firearm use. The course must be at least eight hours long, including at least two hours of in-person training at a firing range. The hands-on training helps ensure that applicants can handle and operate their firearms safely. During the course, participants learn essential safety rules, such as handling, loading, and unloading a firearm correctly. They also practice aiming and firing their weapons in a controlled environment under the supervision of a certified instructor. This practical experience is invaluable, as it prepares applicants for real-world situations where they may need to use their firearms safely.
In addition to firearm handling, the course also covers important legal topics related to concealed carry in Ohio. For example, participants learn about Ohio’s self-defense laws and situations where using a firearm may be legally justified. This helps applicants understand the responsibilities and legal implications of carrying a firearm, which are crucial to using the concealed carry permit responsibly. Completing this training successfully is a requirement before submitting an application for a permit. By including both practical skills and legal knowledge, Ohio’s training requirement helps create responsible concealed carry permit holders.
Understanding Ohio’s Concealed Carry Laws
Ohio’s concealed carry laws include several key rules that permit holders must follow. One of the most important aspects of the law is that individuals must carry their concealed carry permit whenever they have a concealed firearm with them. This permit serves as proof that they have completed the necessary steps to carry legally. Additionally, permit holders must disclose that they are carrying a firearm if they are stopped by law enforcement. This disclosure is required by law and helps keep both the permit holder and the officer safe.
Certain locations are off-limits for those carrying concealed firearms, even with a permit. These restricted areas include government buildings, courthouses, schools, and certain private businesses that prohibit firearms. Knowing where one can and cannot carry a concealed weapon is essential for staying compliant with Ohio law. Ignoring these restrictions can lead to penalties, including fines, suspension of the permit, or even criminal charges. Therefore, all permit holders should be familiar with Ohio’s concealed carry laws to avoid accidental violations.
In addition, Ohio has a “duty to inform” law, which requires permit holders to inform law enforcement officers immediately if they are carrying a concealed weapon when approached or questioned by the police. This law is in place to ensure transparency and avoid misunderstandings that could escalate. Complying with this duty to inform is a crucial part of responsible concealed carry, as it shows respect for law enforcement and contributes to safe interactions with officers.
Renewing an Ohio Concealed Carry Permit
Ohio concealed carry permits are valid for five years, after which they must be renewed. The renewal process is similar to the initial application but generally does not require additional training if the permit holder renews before the expiration date. However, it is recommended that permit holders stay informed about any updates to the law or changes in concealed carry requirements. This helps ensure that they remain compliant and knowledgeable about their rights and responsibilities.
When renewing a permit, applicants need to submit a new application form, along with a recent photo and proof of Ohio residency. The sheriff’s office may also require a background check during the renewal process, but in most cases, a new fingerprint submission is not required unless the previous prints are outdated or unreadable. Once the renewal application is approved, the permit holder receives a new concealed carry license, valid for another five years.
Ohio also allows a grace period for renewals. If a permit expires, the individual has up to six months to renew it without having to retake the training course. This grace period is helpful for those who may have overlooked the expiration date but still wish to renew their permit without additional training. However, during this time, the expired permit is not valid, so it is essential for individuals to renew as soon as possible to avoid lapses in their permit status.
Penalties for Violating Concealed Carry Laws in Ohio
Ohio takes its concealed carry laws seriously, and violations can lead to significant penalties. If a permit holder is found carrying a concealed weapon in a prohibited area or fails to inform law enforcement when required, they could face fines, suspension, or even revocation of their permit. In some cases, repeated violations or serious infractions could result in criminal charges, depending on the nature of the offense. These penalties emphasize the importance of understanding and respecting Ohio’s concealed carry laws.
In addition to legal penalties, permit holders also risk losing their permit if they commit certain offenses. For example, being convicted of a felony or specific misdemeanors after obtaining a permit may result in the suspension or permanent revocation of their concealed carry license. This underscores the importance of maintaining a clean record and upholding the law. Being aware of these potential consequences helps permit holders stay responsible and compliant with the regulations that come with carrying a concealed firearm in Ohio.
Understanding the process and requirements for obtaining an Ohio concealed carry permit is essential for anyone interested in carrying a concealed firearm. From meeting the eligibility requirements and completing the necessary training to understanding the rules for carrying and renewing a permit, each step plays an important role in helping individuals carry responsibly and legally. Staying informed about the laws surrounding concealed carry, and remaining compliant with state guidelines, ensures that permit holders can exercise their rights safely and confidently.
If you are considering applying for a concealed carry permit in Ohio and have questions about the process or need legal guidance, the attorneys at Sabol & Mallory Law Firm are here to help. With their knowledge of Ohio’s gun laws, they can guide you through the application process, answer any legal questions you may have, and provide the support you need to make informed decisions. Reach out to Sabol & Mallory Law Firm today to ensure you have the legal understanding and support you need to navigate Ohio’s concealed carry laws responsibly.
