Iowa Concealed Carry
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Iowa operates as a shall-issue state for concealed carry permits, allowing both permitless and permit-required carry under specific conditions.
Iowa issues two types of permits:
- Professional Permits: Available to individuals aged 18 or older employed in roles justifying carrying firearms.
- Non-Professional Permits: Issued to individuals aged 21 or older meeting permit requirements, including completing state-approved training.
Since July 1, 2021, unlicensed individuals purchasing pistols or revolvers from federally licensed dealers must possess a valid permit to acquire, a permit to carry, or pass a national instant criminal background check. No waiting periods or firearms registration are required in Iowa.
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As of July 1, 2021, Iowa allows permitless carry for both open and concealed carry by individuals aged 21 or older who can legally possess handguns. Iowa continues to issue Permits to Carry Weapons (PCW) for reciprocity purposes.
Iowa law mandates rules prohibiting open carry of handguns in specific locations, including the capitol building, its surrounding grounds, state parking lots, parking garages, and the state laboratories facility in Ankeny.
Iowa recognizes concealed carry permits issued by all states and jurisdictions.
Iowa permits the use of reasonable force to defend oneself or another against imminent unlawful force.
Deadly force is justified if an individual reasonably believes it’s necessary to prevent imminent injury or risk to life or safety, particularly when defending against forcible felonies.
Reasonable force is allowed to prevent criminal interference with personal or public property rights, or to assist in lawful defense of others’ property rights.
Individuals using reasonable force in defense of self, others, or property are immune from criminal or civil liability for damages incurred by the aggressor.
Iowa adheres to Castle Doctrine principles, allowing individuals not engaged in illegal activities to use justified force without the duty to retreat from any lawful place they are present.
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Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Iowa?
Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Iowa.
If Iowa requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued?
Iowa is a shall issue state. [Iowa Code § 724.7]
Does Iowa have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?
No. There are no magazine capacity restrictions for handguns in Iowa.
What is the minimum age in Iowa to get a concealed carry permit?
You must be at least 18 years old to get a concealed carry permit in Iowa. Professional permits are issued to individuals at least 18 years of age that are employed in a capacity that reasonably justifies that person going armed. Non-professional permits are issued to individuals at least 21 years of age that meet permit requirements, including training.
Does Iowa have ammunition restrictions?
Yes. Iowa prohibits the possession of any bullet or projectile containing any chemical compound or mixture designed to explode or detonate upon impact. [Iowa Code § 724.1(7)]
Is open carry permitted in Iowa?
Yes. As of July 1, 2021, without a permit for anyone at least 21 years old that may lawfully possess a handgun. Open carry of handguns is prohibited in the state capitol building and grounds, except by law enforcement. [Iowa Code § 724.5 and Dept. of Admin. Svs. §8A.322(3)]
Does Iowa allow permitless carry?
Yes. As of July 1, 2021, Iowa is a permitless carry state for anyone at least 21 years old that may lawfully possess a handgun. [Iowa Code § 724.5]
Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Iowa?
Yes, although Tasers that shoot electrodes are illegal. In addition, Tasers and stun guns are prohibited in Denison and Crawford Counties. A concealed carry permit is required to purchase or possess a stun gun or Taser, except on your own property. It is illegal to carry a stun gun (openly or concealed) with the intent to use the stun gun on another person, without justification. [Iowa Code § 702.7]
Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Iowa with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)?
No.
Carry in Vehicle?
Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Iowa?
Yes, without a permit for anyone at least 21 years old that may lawfully possess a handgun. [Iowa Code § 724.5]
Carry at Roadside Rest Areas?
Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Iowa?
Yes, without a permit to carry. Carry is permitted at roadside rest areas in Iowa.
Carry in State/National Parks, State/National Forests and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)?
Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in Iowa?
Yes, without a permit, but the use of that firearm is prohibited. Use includes brandishing, displaying, bartering, striking with, and, most obviously, firing or attempting to fire the weapon. [Iowa Code § 461A.42]
Carry in Bars/Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?
Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Iowa?
Yes, there is no statute making it illegal to concealed carry in these establishments, unless posted.
Store in a Vehicle in an Employee Parking Lot?
Does Iowa have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?
Not addressed in Iowa state law, although employers may have a policy.
Carry/Possess at a Hotel?
Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Iowa?
A person operating a hotel has the right to refuse or deny the use of a room, accommodations, facilities, or other privileges of the hotel to an individual the hotel operator reasonably believes is bringing in anything which may create an unreasonable danger or risk to other persons, including but not limited to firearms or explosives. The individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about its concealed carry policy. [Iowa Hotel Sanitation Code 137C.25.C(4)]
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Is my Iowa driver’s license linked to my Iowa carry permit?
No. Your Iowa driver’s license is not linked to your Iowa carry permit. Therefore, a law enforcement officer (LEO) will not be notified that you are a concealed carry license holder immediately when they run your driver’s permit. However, LEOs may have access to other databases where they can obtain this information.
Are “No Weapons Allowed” signs enforced in Iowa?
No. Iowa does not enforce “No Weapons Allowed” signs.
Does Iowa have a red flag law?
No. Iowa does not have a red flag law.
Does Iowa allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
No. However, the information is available for law enforcement.
Does Iowa state law define brandishing?
No definition of brandishing was found in Iowa law. However, a person commits assault when they intentionally point a firearm toward another, or display a dangerous weapon in a threatening manner with the intention of placing another in fear of immediate physical contact. [Iowa Code § 708.1]
Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Iowa?
No. There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Iowa.
Does Iowa have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e., Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?
Yes. There is full state preemption of all gun laws in Iowa. No municipality may have any ordinance, motion, resolution, policy, or amendment regulating the ownership, possession, carry, legal transfer, lawful transportation, modification, registration, or licensing of firearms, firearms attachments, or other weapons. However, municipalities may restrict firearms in government buildings provided there is appropriate screening as well as armed security personnel present. Iowa Code § 724.28(3) authorizes any “person adversely affected” by the regulation to file suit in court for “declaratory and injunctive relief for damages.”
Does Iowa have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or controlled substances?
Not while under the influence of an alcoholic beverage (BAC of 0.08 or greater), while any amount of a controlled substance is present in the person, as measured in the person’s blood or urine, or a combination of such substances. [Iowa Code §§ 724.4C and 321J.2]
As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgement, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.
Does Iowa issue concealed carry permits to non-residents?
Yes. Applications for a Nonresident Professional Permit for a state employee whose need to go armed is employment based are filed with the Iowa Department of Public Safety. [Iowa Code §§ 724.6, 724.7, and 724.11]
Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Iowa? Yes/No. As of July 1, 2021, purchase permits are not required in order to acquire a pistol or revolver from a federally licensed firearms dealer. There are now several options, including obtaining a purchase permit, having a valid permit to carry weapons or completing a satisfactory national instant criminal background check.
Are background checks required for private gun sales in Iowa? Are there exceptions? No. As of July 1, 2021, no permit or background check is required.
Does my current Iowa concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm? Yes.
Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Iowa? Only in the sense that a permit to acquire a handgun becomes valid 3 days after the date of application. After the permit is issued, the holder may purchase additional handguns without a waiting period for 5 years (the duration of the permit).
Do handguns need to be registered in Iowa? No. Handguns do not need to be registered in Iowa.
Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a permit? Yes.
What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Iowa? 21 years old (there are exceptions for anyone who is at least 18 years old whose duty requires the possession of such a weapon). A parent (or guardian or spouse who is 21 years of age or older) of a person under the age of 21 may allow the person, while under direct supervision, to possess a pistol or revolver or handgun ammunition for any lawful purpose. A parent (guardian or spouse who is 21 years of age or older) of a minor under the age of 14 years who allows that minor to possess a pistol or revolver or handgun ammunition is strictly liable to an injured party for all damages resulting from the possession of the pistol or revolver or ammunition therefor by that minor.
In order to purchase a handgun in Iowa, whether through a licensed firearms dealer or a private transaction (unless between family members), either a Permit to Acquire a pistol or revolver or a Permit to Carry Weapons is required. The application for a Permit to Acquire is processed at the county level and is valid for 5 years after the date it is issued. Some counties accept online applications, others accept them by mail, but most require an application to be submitted at the county sheriff’s office in person. To see if your county of residence accepts online permits, check the county sheriff’s office website directly.
In order to obtain a Permit to Acquire, you will need a valid driver’s license or state-issued ID and will have to pay a fee. A National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) background check will be processed. The processing time to obtain a Permit to Acquire will differ county by county and may take up to 10 days. The permit itself is not valid until 3 days after the date it is issued.
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
California (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Colorado (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Connecticut (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Delaware (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
District of Columbia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Hawaii (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Illinois (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maryland (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Massachusetts (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Minnesota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Nebraska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Nevada (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Jersey (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Mexico (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New York (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New York City (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
North Carolina (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oregon (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Pennsylvania (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Puerto Rico (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Rhode Island (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Washington (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wisconsin (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Colorado (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Pennsylvania (at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Virginia (at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wisconsin (at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Are non-resident concealed carry permits available in Iowa?
Yes. Non-residents can apply for a concealed carry permit under the same application process as residents. Non-residents who work or attend school in Iowa can also apply.
Moving to or from Iowa and interested in a permit?
If moving to Iowa, apply for a resident permit once you establish residency and have an Iowa Driver’s license or state-issued ID. If leaving Iowa, check with authorities to determine the validity period of your Iowa permit in your new state.
How long is an Iowa concealed carry permit valid for?
Permits are valid for 5 years from the date of issuance.
How long does it take to process an Iowa concealed carry permit?
Processing typically takes up to 30 days.
What should I do if I change my name or address?
Notify the Sheriff’s Office that issued your permit. Moving between counties requires starting the permit process anew, with a new address.
What if my permit is lost or stolen?
Apply to the Sheriff in your county of residence for a duplicate, replacement, or renewal.
What are the fees associated with an Iowa concealed carry permit?
- Initial Permit: $50
- Renewals: $25
- Duplicates: $25
What are the eligibility requirements for an Iowa concealed carry permit? An applicant must:
- Be at least 18 years old for a professional permit, or 21 years old for a non-professional permit.
- Complete a firearms training course.
- Meet specific legal criteria regarding alcohol use, pending charges, felony convictions, warrants, and more.
- Ensure compliance with federal law requirements.
For eligibility verification, consider taking the Carry Eligibility Quiz on the Iowa Department of Public Safety website and seek legal advice if needed.
What are the knife laws in Iowa?
The only illegal knives are ballistic knives. It is legal to open carry any legal knife. It is legal to concealed carry a balisong, dagger, stiletto, razor, switchblade, or knife with a blade longer than 5 inches with a permit. Local ordinances may restrict possession of knives, swords, or other weapons.
Can I wear a COVID-19 protective mask while carrying concealed in Iowa?
Yes, Iowa law does not impose any clothing restrictions on permit holders in public places.
Can I concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Iowa?
Yes, holders of a valid permit to carry weapons may carry a handgun while hunting, provided it is a lawful method of take for deer.
Can I concealed carry while bow hunting in Iowa?
Yes, with a valid concealed carry permit, although the handgun cannot be used to shoot or dispatch deer.
Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Iowa?
Yes, intentional interference with lawful hunting, fishing, or fur-harvesting activities is illegal under Iowa law.
For more details, refer to the specific Iowa Code sections mentioned.
