-
Notifications
You must be signed in to change notification settings - Fork 0
Oregon Concealed Carry
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Oregon operates as a shall-issue state for concealed carry permits, managed at the county level by local sheriff’s offices. The sheriff holds discretion to deny a permit if there are reasonable grounds to believe the applicant poses a danger to themselves or others.
No license is required for firearm purchases in Oregon. Private-party transfers must occur through a licensed dealer, with both parties present. Federal law mandates background checks and record-keeping by the dealer, and the Oregon State Police retain records of firearm sales for five years.
Open carry is legal in Oregon without a permit for individuals aged 18 and older. However, local jurisdictions retain the authority to impose restrictions on open carry, including in public spaces and vehicles. Certain areas like federal facilities and Indian reservations are off-limits for carrying firearms.
Concealed carry is permissible with an Oregon CHL, available to applicants aged 21 and above. Applicants must demonstrate handgun competence through an approved course, shooting competition, or military service. Non-residents from contiguous states may also apply for an Oregon CHL. Oregon does not recognize concealed carry permits from other states.
Oregon law permits the use of physical force in self-defense or defense of others against imminent unlawful physical force. Individuals may use force they reasonably believe necessary to prevent or terminate theft, criminal trespass, or burglary.
Oregon law does not explicitly include a Castle Doctrine or “stand your ground” provision. However, individuals are not required to retreat before using force in self-defense in public spaces. Deadly force is justified to prevent certain felonies involving physical force, burglary in a dwelling, or imminent unlawful deadly physical force against oneself or others.
The use of deadly physical force is justified in Oregon when preventing a felony involving physical force, burglary in a dwelling, or imminent unlawful deadly physical force. It may also be used to defend against arson or a felony committed with force and violence.
Constitutional Carry?
- Does Oregon allow constitutional carry? No. Oregon is not a constitutional carry state.
Open Carry Permitted?
- Is open carry permitted in Oregon? Yes, without a license. However, local governments can prohibit open carry for persons who do not have an Oregon concealed handgun license and are carrying a loaded handgun in public places (inside of vehicles are considered public places). For instance, the cities of Portland, Beaverton, Tigard, Oregon City, Salem and Independence, plus the entirety of Multnomah County, prohibit open carry of loaded firearms. All public buildings are off-limits for those that open carry without an Oregon concealed handgun license.
Gun Permit Licensure?
- If Oregon requires a license to carry a concealed firearm, how are those licenses issued? Oregon follows a shall-issue license policy.
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?
- What is the minimum age in Oregon to get a concealed carry license? The minimum age to carry concealed in Oregon is 21.
Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?
- Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Oregon with a concealed carry license (or under permitless carry if applicable)? No. A Oregon CHL only allows the concealed carry of handguns.
Tasers or Stun Guns?
- Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Oregon? Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a license.
Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?
- Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Oregon? Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Oregon. However, a person can be charged with a crime for recklessly discharging either of these items against another person.
Magazine Limits for Handguns?
- Does Oregon have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? No. There are no handgun magazine capacity limits in Oregon.
Ammunition Restrictions?
- Does Oregon have ammunition restrictions? Yes. It is illegal to possess teflon-coated handgun ammunition or handgun ammunition coated with any chemical compound with properties similar to Teflon and which is intended to penetrate soft body armor, for any person with the intent to use the ammunition in the commission of a felony. [Or. Rev. Stat. § 166.350]
CARRY IN VEHICLE?
Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Oregon?
Yes, with an OR CHL. Without a license, a loaded handgun must not be concealed and readily accessible. A handgun is considered readily accessible if it is in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. For vehicles with no storage location that is outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle, a handgun is considered not readily accessible if it is stored in a closed and locked glove compartment, center console or other container. However, local governments can set their own laws on public places, which includes vehicles.
CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS?
Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Oregon?
Yes, with an OR CHL.
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 Oregon?
Yes, with an OR CHL. See the National Parks webpage for links to each Park in Oregon.
CARRY IN BARS/RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL?
Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Oregon?
Yes, there is no statute making it illegal to concealed carry with a valid OR CHL, unless posted.
CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL?
Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Oregon?
Oregon statutes don’t specifically address firearms at hotels. Please note that each hotel develops their own policies and the individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about its concealed carry policy. See the Handguns at Hotels page for additional information.
STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT?
Does Oregon have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?
Not addressed in Oregon state law.
DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO Carry License?
- Is my Oregon driver’s license linked to my Oregon carry license?
- Yes. Your Oregon driver’s license is linked to your Oregon concealed handgun license. Therefore, a law enforcement officer will be notified immediately that you are a concealed carry license holder if they run your driver’s license.
Preemption?
- Does Oregon have preemption laws related to concealed carry?
- Yes, the state has preemption of firearms laws in Oregon, except cities may:
- Regulate the discharge of firearms within the city’s boundaries; and
- Regulate, restrict, or prohibit the possession of loaded firearms in public places.
- [Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. §166.170]
Red Flag Law?
- Does Oregon have a red flag law?
- Oregon has a red flag law. A law enforcement officer or a family or household member of a person may file a petition enjoining the person from having in the person’s custody or control, owning, purchasing, possessing, or receiving, or attempting to purchase or receive, a deadly weapon.
- [Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§166.527]
“No Weapons Allowed” Signs Enforced?
- Are “No Weapons Allowed” signs enforced in Oregon?
- No. Oregon does not enforce “No Weapons Allowed” signs.
Carry While Using Alcohol or Drugs?
- Does Oregon have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or drugs?
- Not addressed in state statutes.
- 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 judgment, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities.
NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING?
- Does Oregon issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?
- Yes, only for residents of contiguous states with compelling business interest or other legitimate demonstrated need.
- [Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. §166.291]
PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY?
- Does Oregon allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
- No, however, the information is available for law enforcement.
Duty to Inform Officer You’re Carrying?
- Do you have a duty to inform a police officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Oregon?
- No. There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Oregon.
- [Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. §166.292]
Brandishing?
- Does Oregon state law define brandishing?
- No definition of brandishing was found in Oregon law. However:
- Menacing: A person commits the crime of menacing if by word or conduct the person intentionally attempts to place another person in fear of imminent serious physical injury. [Or. Rev. Stat. §163.190]
- Unlawful Use of a Weapon: A person commits the crime of unlawful use of a weapon if the person attempts to use unlawfully against another, or carries or possesses with intent to use unlawfully against another, any dangerous or deadly weapon. [Or. Rev. Stat. §166.220]
- Pointing a Firearm: Any person over the age of 12 years who, with or without malice, purposely points or aims any loaded or empty pistol, gun, revolver or other firearm, at or toward any other person within range of the firearm, except in self-defense, shall be charged with a crime. [Or. Rev. Stat. §166.190]
No. However, when a retail dealer, pawnbroker, or other entity buys or accepts a used firearm, they must enter details into a register, including the time, date, place of purchase or trade, the seller’s name, identification documentation, and the firearm’s make, model, and manufacturer’s number. This form is submitted to the local law enforcement agency, and dealers must retain a firearms transaction thumbprint form for five years.
The minimum age to possess or transport a handgun in Oregon is 18 years old.
No permit is required to purchase a handgun in Oregon.
No, your Oregon concealed carry license does not exempt you from needing a background check when purchasing a firearm.
No, there is no waiting period to buy a handgun in Oregon.
Yes, background checks are required for private sales, which must be conducted by or processed through a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL). Exceptions include transfers to spouses, domestic partners, direct family members, and transfers facilitated by a personal representative or trustee upon the firearm owner’s death.
Yes, a concealed carry license is not required in a person’s residence or place of business. “Residence” includes a recreational vessel or vehicle used as living quarters.
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Carolina
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Virginia
Note: Firearms must be carried in accordance with the laws of the state you are visiting. Be sure to check the laws of the other state before traveling there with your firearms.
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Iowa (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)
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)
West Virginia (permitless carry, 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)
Iowa (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)
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)
*PC-18 = permitless carry if at least 18 years old
*PC-21 = permitless carry if at least 21 years old
Permitless carry includes constitutional carry states as well as states where an individual must meet certain qualifications, e.g., no DUIs in the last 10 years, in order to legally carry (Tennessee). Each state determines the requirements and any limitations on the carry of firearms. Check each state’s page for more information and any restrictions that may apply.
Oregon’s concealed handgun license application process varies by county. Each county has its own application form.
- Moving to Oregon: Residents and residents of contiguous states with compelling business interests or other legitimate needs can apply for a concealed handgun license once residency is established.
- Moving from Oregon: If you move out of Oregon, your resident license expires upon establishing residency in another state.
An applicant must:
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Demonstrate handgun competence.
- Provide proof of residency.
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Meet eligibility criteria including no felony convictions, no recent misdemeanors, and compliance with federal law.
- Initial License: $100 + $15 for background check.
- Renewals: $75.
The concealed handgun license is valid for 4 years.
The processing time for a concealed handgun license is typically 45 days.
Oregon may issue licenses to residents of contiguous states with compelling business interests or other legitimate needs.
Contact your county sheriff’s office for procedures regarding name or address changes. A $15 fee may apply.
Report lost licenses to the local law enforcement agency. A replacement license can often be applied for online with a $15 fee.
Complete a firearm training course if required.
Complete an application form at your local county sheriff’s office or download the application.
Take the completed application to the county sheriff’s office with:
- Training course certificate.
- Stamped, self-addressed envelope for license mailing.
- Two forms of ID. You will be fingerprinted.
You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved.
You can fulfill the handgun competency requirement through one of the following methods:
- Complete a hunters’ safety course approved by the Department of Fish and Wildlife or a similar agency, provided handgun training was included.
- Finish any firearm safety or training course available to the general public, offered by law enforcement, community colleges, private or public institutions, or firearms training schools. The course must have included a handgun safety component and instructors must have been certified by the NRA or a law enforcement agency.
- Provide a copy of your DD214 indicating training with a handgun, sidearm, or pistol.
- Present evidence of equivalent experience with a handgun through participation in organized shooting competitions or military experience.
Step 1: An otherwise expired concealed handgun license remains valid for up to 45 days after the licensee applies for renewal under the following conditions:
- The licensee applies for renewal before the original license expires.
- The licensee has proof of the renewal application.
- The application for renewal has not been denied.
Step 2: Obtain an application form at your local county sheriff’s office. Some counties offer downloadable applications.
Step 3: Take the completed application to the county sheriff’s office along with:
- Your current or expired Concealed Handgun License.
- Your Oregon Driver’s License. Pay the renewal fee.
Step 4: You may receive a new CHL the same day. If not, you will be notified by mail if your renewal application has been approved.
Places off-limits even with a permit/license:
- The definition of public building (above) includes colleges and universities as well as the adjacent grounds, and by statute, concealed carry license holders are allowed to carry in them. However, all seven state colleges and universities plus most community colleges have internal policies banning firearms on the properties.
- Based on the passage of SB 554, as of September 25, 2021, the following locations are off-limits:
- The Capitol
- The terminal of Portland International Airport (with an exception for unloaded guns stowed securely in checked baggage)
- Schools, community colleges, and universities may prohibit firearms on school grounds, provided they post clearly visible signs as well as posting on their website.
- Court facilities, however, the presiding judge of a judicial district or a municipal court may enter an order permitting the possession of specified weapons in a court facility; [Or. Rev. Stat. § 166.360, Or. Rev. Stat. § 166.370]
- Dept. of Correction facilities [Or. Rev. Stat. §§ 169.076(6), 169.077(3) & 169.078(4)];
- Commission for the Blind property (including vehicles) [OAR 585–001–0010(6)];
- Racetracks [Or. Racing Comm. § 462–130–0010(w)];
- Posted private businesses or private property;
- National parks/forests marked or posted with signs prohibiting all firearms;
- Secured areas of airports;
- Indian reservations or property; and
- Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation.
- Carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol? Yes, with an OR CHL.
- Carry in my vehicle without a permit/license? No.
- Carry in roadside rest areas? Yes, with an OR CHL.
- Carry in state/national parks, state/national forests, and WMAs? Yes, with an OR CHL.
- Carry in places of worship? There is no State statute prohibiting concealed carry in places of worship. However, since places of worship are private property, they may post signs prohibiting firearms.
- Carry in public buildings? Yes, with an OR CHL. “Public building” [ORS 166.360(9)] means a hospital, a capitol building, a public or private school, a college or university (however, see Can’t Carry Section below for internal college policies), a city hall or the residence of any state official elected by the state at large, and the grounds adjacent to each such building, although court facilities are excluded. [ORS 166.370(3)(g)]
It is legal to open carry any type of knife. Unless you have been convicted of a felony, you can own any knife you choose in Oregon. It is illegal in Oregon to concealed carry on your person a dirk, dagger or stabbing knife, a butterfly knife, gravity knife, any knife with a blade that projects or swings into position by force of a spring or by centrifugal force, or any similar instrument by the use of which injury could be inflicted upon the person or property of any other person. Knives are prohibited in public buildings and court facilities except for an ordinary pocketknife having a blade less than 4 inches in length. [Or. Rev. Stat. §§ 166.240, 166.370]
I can legally carry a concealed firearm in Oregon, but can I wear a COVID 19 protective mask while carrying concealed?
Oregon law allows residents to conceal carry a firearm while also wearing a mask.
Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Oregon?
Yes. There are no Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife administrative rules that restrict the right to carry or have in your possession a firearm at any time. You may not hunt with that firearm unless regulations for the area and type of hunt in which you are participating allow you to do so.
Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Oregon?
Yes. You may carry or have in your possession a firearm during a general or controlled archery (bow) season. You must use legal archery equipment to hunt animals for which you have an archery tag. [OR Dept of Fish & Wildlife Fast Facts about Firearms Possession]
Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Oregon?
Yes. A person commits the offense of obstructing the taking of wildlife if the person, having no right to do so, interferes with the lawful taking, or the process of taking, of wildlife by another with the intent to prevent the taking. [ORS 496.994]
👆 Click to get your CCW permit online in just minutes!