Is Concealed Carry Without a Permit Legal in North Dakota After the 2026 Law Changes?

Yes, concealed carry without a permit is legal in North Dakota under specific conditions. Since the enactment of House Bill 1329 in 2023, residents and non-residents aged 18+ may carry concealed firearms without a permit, provided they are not prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law. The North Dakota Attorney General’s Office clarified this in its 2024 Firearms Compliance Bulletin, aligning with the state’s “constitutional carry” framework. Local law enforcement retains authority to enforce restrictions in sensitive locations.


Key Regulations for Concealed Carry Without a Permit in North Dakota

  • Prohibited Locations: Carrying is banned in federal facilities (e.g., courthouses, post offices), schools, and private properties with posted “no firearms” signage, per North Dakota Century Code § 62.1-02-12.
  • Age and Status Restrictions: Only individuals 18+ may carry without a permit; those under 21 must obtain a permit to purchase or possess a handgun. Violations trigger misdemeanor charges under § 62.1-03-01.
  • Reciprocity Limitations: While North Dakota honors permits from other states, unpermitted carry in another state may not be recognized, per the Bureau of Criminal Investigation’s 2025 reciprocity matrix.