Alabama Gun Laws
Constitutional carry. No magazine limit. Castle doctrine and stand your ground.
Last reviewed against official sources on 2026-09-25. Official state source.
Alabama allows permitless concealed and open carry for adults 18+. The state recognizes both castle doctrine and stand your ground protections. No magazine capacity restrictions or assault weapon bans apply.
Key facts
- Concealed Carry: Constitutional carry — no permit required for adults 18+ (Ala. Code § 13A-11-7(c))
- Open Carry: Permitted without a permit (Ala. Code § 13A-11-7(c))
- Permit to Purchase: Not required
- Assault Weapon Ban: No ban
- Magazine Limit: No limit
- Waiting Period: None
- Universal Background Check: Not required for private sales
- Red Flag Law (ERPO): No state ERPO law
- Castle Doctrine: Yes (Ala. Code § 13A-3-23)
- Stand Your Ground: Yes (Ala. Code § 13A-3-23)
- Concealed Carry Reciprocity: Honors concealed carry permits from every other state (Ala. Code § 13A-11-85)
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to carry a handgun in Alabama?
No. Alabama is a constitutional carry state. Adults 18 and older may carry concealed or openly without a permit.
Does Alabama require background checks for private gun sales?
No. Private firearm sales between Alabama residents do not require a background check under state law.
Is there a waiting period to buy a gun in Alabama?
No. Alabama does not impose a waiting period for firearm purchases.
Does Alabama have a red flag law?
No. Alabama has not enacted an extreme risk protection order (red flag) law.
Does Alabama honor concealed carry permits from other states?
Yes. Alabama recognizes a valid concealed carry permit issued by any other state for a visiting non-resident, regardless of that state's own issuing standards. Alabama residents don't need a permit at all under the state's constitutional carry law.
Not legal advice. Laws change; verify with official sources.