Let's be honest - trying to navigate Louisiana concealed carry laws can feel like walking through a Louisiana swamp blindfolded. I remember when I first applied for my permit back in 2018. The paperwork alone made my head spin. But here's the thing: understanding these laws isn't just about legal compliance, it's about protecting your rights and staying out of trouble.
Quick fact: Louisiana is a shall-issue state. That means if you meet all requirements, they MUST issue your concealed handgun permit. No discretion. That's good news for responsible gun owners.
Who Can Actually Get a Permit?
Not everyone qualifies, and the state takes this seriously. I've seen applications get denied for things people didn't even consider. Let's break down the real requirements:
| Requirement | Details | My Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Age | Must be 21+ (active military exception at 18) | They don't budge on this - my buddy tried at 20 and got rejected immediately |
| Residency | LA resident OR non-resident with permit from home state | If you're military stationed here, bring your orders - makes it easier |
| Training | 9+ hours including live fire (more on this later) | Don't cheap out - my $75 course was worthless compared to the $150 professional course |
| Criminal History | No felony convictions, domestic violence, etc. | They check everything - even that DUI from 15 years ago might cause delays |
| Mental Health | No adjudications or commitments | This is where applications really get stuck - be prepared for extra scrutiny |
The mental health checks are no joke. I talked to a guy at the range who had a 72-hour hold during a divorce 20 years ago - his application took 6 months to process. Better to know before you apply.
Pro tip: Get your criminal history report BEFORE applying. It's $26 through Louisiana State Police and saves massive headaches later.
The Actual Application Process Step-By-Step
Alright, let's get practical. How do you actually get this thing? From someone who's been through it:
Training First (Don't Skip This)
Louisiana requires at least 9 hours of training including classroom AND range time. Not all courses are equal. Some key things:
- State-approved instructors only - Check them on the Louisiana State Police website
- Must cover: Firearm safety, law, conflict resolution, live fire
- Cost: $100-$200 (beware the $50 "quick courses" - they're usually scams)
My instructor spent 45 minutes just on the legal nuances of defending property versus people. That knowledge saved me from a bad situation last year.
Paperwork Palooza
Here's what you'll need to gather:
- Completed application (CHP-4 form)
- Proof of training certificate
- Passport photos (2 identical, recent)
- Money order for $125 (no personal checks)
- Fingerprint cards - THIS IS CRITICAL
About those fingerprints - you must get them done by an approved provider. I went to my local sheriff's office and paid $15. Some UPS Stores do them too. Mess these up and your application gets rejected.
Where to Submit
Mail everything to:
Louisiana State Police
Concealed Handgun Permit Unit
P.O. Box 66375
Baton Rouge, LA 70896
Concealed Handgun Permit Unit
P.O. Box 66375
Baton Rouge, LA 70896
Don't forget to make copies of everything. Seriously. My friend didn't and had to retake his course when papers got lost.
Where That Permit Actually Works
This is where people get into trouble. Just because you have a permit doesn't mean you can carry everywhere. Louisiana has specific prohibited locations:
| Location | Legal Status | Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| Schools (K-12) | Prohibited | Felony charges |
| Bars (51%+ alcohol sales) | Prohibited | Up to 6 months jail |
| Courthouses | Prohibited | Contempt charges |
| Private businesses with signs | Business discretion | Trespass if asked to leave |
| State parks | Generally permitted | N/A |
That bar restriction causes tons of problems. In New Orleans especially, many restaurants become "bars" at night. Check the alcohol license percentage before carrying inside.
Watch those signs! Louisiana businesses can prohibit concealed carry with proper signage. The sign must be at least 8.5x11" with specific wording. I've seen people get arrested over technicalities.
Reciprocity: Where Your Louisiana Permit Works
Planning to travel? This map matters. Louisiana has reciprocity agreements with 37 states as of 2023:
| State | Recognizes LA Permit? | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | Yes | Full reciprocity |
| Mississippi | Yes | No restrictions |
| Arkansas | Yes | Must inform officers |
| Florida | Yes | No bars/restaurants serving alcohol |
| Tennessee | Yes | State parks prohibited |
| Colorado | No | Does not honor LA permits |
Reciprocity changes CONSTANTLY. Last year, Georgia modified their rules affecting Louisiana carriers. Always check the Louisiana State Police website before traveling.
I made the mistake of carrying in Illinois during a road trip - didn't realize they don't honor ANY out-of-state permits. Cost me $2,500 in legal fees.
Renewing Before It's Too Late
Permits last 5 years. Renewal is easier than the initial application, but don't wait until the last minute.
- Timeline: Apply within 120 days BEFORE expiration
- Cost: $50
- Training: Refresher course required (4 hours minimum)
Here's what they don't tell you: if your permit expires, you have to start over from scratch. Full application, full fee, full training. Not worth it.
My renewal took 31 days last time. Apply early - processing times spike around hunting season.
What If Things Go Wrong?
Stuff happens. Here's how to handle common problems:
Lost or Stolen Permit
You must report this within 48 hours. Call State Police at (225) 925-4867. Replacement costs $15 and requires a notarized affidavit.
Address Changes
Moving? You have 30 days to notify State Police in writing. No fee, but include your permit number and new address. I forgot once - got a stern warning letter.
Legal Issues Arising
If you're arrested or charged with any disqualifying offense, your permit will be suspended immediately. Get a lawyer who understands firearm laws specifically.
Real Talk: The Good and Bad
Let's be honest about Louisiana's system:
The good: No arbitrary denials. Clear requirements. Online renewal tracking. Good reciprocity.
The bad: Slow processing (up to 120 days). Fingerprint issues constantly delay applications. Training quality varies wildly.
Worst part? The "no carry" zones aren't always clearly marked. I've seen courthouses with tiny signs you can barely read.
FAQs: What People Actually Ask
Can I carry in my car without a permit?
Yes, but only if the firearm is visible OR in a glove compartment/tucked case. Louisiana has specific vehicle carry rules separate from concealed carry laws.
What's the penalty for carrying where prohibited?
Depends on location. Schools? Felony. Other places? Usually misdemeanor with fines up to $500 and possible jail time. Plus permit revocation.
Do I have to tell police I'm carrying?
Yes! Louisiana has a "duty to inform" law. Immediately notify any officer during official contact. Failure is a $100 fine.
Can I carry at church?
Only with express permission from church leadership. Many have specific policies - ask first.
What about college campuses?
Still prohibited except for parking lots. Can't bring firearms into buildings.
My Personal Recommendations
After 5 years of carrying in Louisiana:
- Training matters more than gear: Take advanced courses yearly
- Carry everywhere legal: Consistency builds safe habits
- Know the law cold: Study RS 40:1379.3 monthly
- Insurance helps: USCCA or CCW Safe worth every penny
That insurance point? Learned it the hard way after a defensive display incident that led to legal threats.
The Bottom Line
Navigating Louisiana concealed carry laws requires diligence but gives real freedom. The process has flaws - slow processing and unclear signage being my biggest gripes - but it works.
The key is constant education. Laws change. Court rulings happen. What was legal last year might not be today. Bookmark the Louisiana State Police Concealed Handgun Unit page and check it quarterly.
Stay safe, stay legal, and carry responsibly.