Carry Reciprocity in the U.S.: What You Need to Know Before Crossing State Lines

By Black Swamp Leather Company LLC
Handmade in Northwest Ohio – Built for the Brave

What is Concealed Carry Reciprocity?

Concealed carry reciprocity refers to the mutual recognition of concealed carry permits between different states. In plain terms: if you have a concealed carry license in your home state, reciprocity agreements determine whether another state will honor that license when you're traveling.

Think of it like a driver’s license—most states recognize each other’s driving credentials. But with carry permits, it’s a patchwork of laws, and one wrong turn could land a law-abiding citizen in hot water.

That’s why understanding reciprocity isn’t just a legal issue—it’s part of being a responsible and prepared American.

Why Reciprocity Matters for Gun Owners

We’re a mobile nation. Whether you’re on the road for work, heading out for a family vacation, or making a cross-country trip to train or hunt, your EDC setup should travel with you—but only if the law allows it.

Failing to understand reciprocity can lead to:

• Fines or jail time

• Permanent loss of firearm rights

• Confiscation of your weapon

• Felony charges in extreme cases

All because of crossing a border.

Freedom ain't free, and it sure ain't simple. That’s why staying educated is part of the mission.

Three Types of States When It Comes to Reciprocity

1. Full Reciprocity States
   These states honor permits from all other states. Examples (as of 2025) include:

   • Idaho

   • Alaska

   • Arizona

   • South Dakota

   • Vermont (No permit required, but honors others)

   These states understand that the Second Amendment doesn’t stop at state lines.

2. Conditional Reciprocity States
   These states honor some permits based on:

   • The issuing state’s requirements

   • Age of permit holder

   • Type of permit

   Example: Florida honors permits from Ohio, but not from California.

3. No Reciprocity States
   These states don’t recognize out-of-state permits, period. They include:

   • California

   • New York

   • New Jersey

   • Hawaii

   • Illinois

   These are often the most restrictive—and where you must be extra cautious.

Constitutional Carry vs. Permit Carry

In 2025, over half of U.S. states have adopted constitutional carry (permitless carry for law-abiding citizens). While this is a huge win for liberty, don’t assume that every constitutional carry state automatically offers reciprocity.

For example:

• Texas allows permitless carry, but if you're visiting from out of state, your home permit might still be required to legally carry in certain public places.

Tip: Always check before you go. The rules aren’t always logical—but your freedom depends on knowing them.

Best Tools for Checking Reciprocity

Staying current is key. Here are a few reliable tools:

• USCCA Reciprocity Map – usconcealedcarry.com

• Handgun Hero’s Compare Tool – great for researching state-by-state requirements

• State Attorney General websites – always the legal source

• CCW Safe or similar legal protection programs – great for staying covered and informed

Pro Tip: Print a copy of your state’s reciprocity map and keep it in your glove box with your permit. That little bit of paper can save you a mountain of trouble.

Traveling Tips for Armed Americans

• Know the "Gun-Free Zones" in the state you're visiting—schools, government buildings, etc.

• Don’t assume open carry is legal. Even in open carry states, there may be local restrictions.

• Lock it up when needed. If you're passing through a no-carry state, transport your firearm unloaded, in a locked case, in the trunk (per the Firearm Owners Protection Act).

• Have a backup plan. A good belt, a retention holster, and the right mindset can make carrying safe, discreet, and legal.

Federal Reciprocity: What’s the Status?

There have been pushes for a Federal Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, which would make your permit valid across all 50 states—just like your driver’s license.

But as of 2025, the bill continues to face uphill battles in Congress. While it’s supported by millions of Americans and many law enforcement groups, some politicians prefer to keep rights "state-managed."

Until then, we deal with the state-by-state mess, responsibly.

Final Thoughts: Stay Armed, Stay Legal, Stay Free

As defenders of the Second Amendment, we believe the right to self-defense doesn’t stop at the border of your state. But we also know that staying legal is just as important as staying ready.

At Black Swamp Leather Company LLC, we don’t just build holsters and belts—we build confidence, comfort, and peace of mind for the American who carries every day.

Wherever the road takes you, make sure your rights travel with you—and that you know where they do and don’t apply.

Need a Reliable Holster for the Road?

From retention-ready IWB holsters to double-stitched travel belts, we’ve got the gear built to last, handmade right here in Northwest Ohio.

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Carry smart. Carry proud. Carry American.

STAY UP TO DATE ON STATES RECIPROCITY HERE!