Georgia 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.

Georgia allows constitutional carry for adults 21+. The state recognizes both castle doctrine and stand your ground. No magazine limits, assault weapon bans, or permit-to-purchase requirements exist.

Key facts

• Concealed Carry: Constitutional carry — no permit required for adults 21+ (O.C.G.A. § 16-11-126)
• Open Carry: Permitted without a permit for adults 21+ (O.C.G.A. § 16-11-126)
• 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 (O.C.G.A. § 16-3-23)
• Stand Your Ground: Yes (O.C.G.A. § 16-3-23.1)
• Concealed Carry Reciprocity: Honors firearms licenses from every state (since 2022) (Georgia Attorney General — State Reciprocity List)

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to carry in Georgia?

No. Georgia is a constitutional carry state. Adults 21 and older may carry concealed or openly without a permit.

Does Georgia require background checks for private sales?

No. Private firearm sales in Georgia do not require a background check.

Does Georgia have a waiting period?

No. Georgia does not impose a waiting period for firearm purchases.

Does Georgia have a red flag law?

No. Georgia has not enacted an extreme risk protection order law.

Does Georgia recognize concealed carry permits from other states?

Yes. Since Governor Kemp signed HB 218 in 2022, Georgia recognizes a valid firearms license from any other state. Georgia's own Weapons Carry License is separately recognized by roughly 30 other states, some of which impose their own age restrictions on visiting Georgia permit holders.

Not legal advice. Laws change; verify with official sources.