Connecticut Gun Laws 2026

Complete guide to firearms laws in Connecticut.

Last updated: 2026-03-14

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Gun laws change frequently. Consult a licensed attorney in Connecticut for guidance.

Quick Reference

Permit to Purchase: Permit required for handguns and long guns
Background Check: State-run for all sales
Waiting Period: None
Open Carry: Permitted with permit only
Concealed Carry: Permit Required
Assault Weapon Ban: Yes
Magazine Limit: 10 rounds
Red Flag Law: Yes

Complete Guide

Purchasing a Firearm in Connecticut

Connecticut requires permit required for handguns and long guns to purchase firearms. Buyers must be at least 18 years old for long guns (rifles and shotguns) and 21 for handguns when purchasing from a licensed dealer, in accordance with federal law. All buyers must be able to pass a background check and must not be a prohibited person under federal or state law.

Connecticut requires background checks for all firearm sales, including private transactions between individuals. This universal background check requirement means that even sales at gun shows between private parties must go through a licensed dealer or state-run system. This is one of the more comprehensive background check requirements in the country.

Connecticut does not impose a waiting period on firearm purchases. Once the background check is completed and approved, the buyer may take immediate possession of the firearm. This applies to both handguns and long guns purchased through licensed dealers.

Concealed Carry in Connecticut

Connecticut has a permit-based concealed carry system. Connecticut requires a concealed carry permit or license to carry a concealed handgun in public. The state operates a shall-issue system, meaning the issuing authority must grant the permit if the applicant meets all legal requirements. There is no discretionary denial. Requirements typically include minimum age, background check, and in some cases a firearms safety training course.

Concealed carry permit holders (where applicable) should be aware of restricted locations where carry is prohibited regardless of permit status. These typically include federal buildings, courthouses, schools and school zones, polling places on election day, and any private property where firearms are prohibited by the owner. Posted signage requirements vary by state — in Connecticut, always look for posted signs at building entrances.

Open Carry Laws

Open carry of firearms is legal in Connecticut. A permit may be required in certain areas. Open carry refers to carrying a firearm in a manner that is visible to others, such as in a belt holster. While legal at the state level, some municipalities or specific locations (government buildings, schools, courthouses) may restrict open carry. It is important to be aware of local ordinances and posted signage.

Assault Weapons and Magazine Restrictions

Connecticut has enacted an assault weapons ban. Certain semi-automatic firearms with specific features are classified as assault weapons and are prohibited from sale, transfer, and in some cases possession. The specific definition of "assault weapon" varies — generally it includes semi-automatic rifles and pistols with detachable magazines and one or more military-style features such as a pistol grip, folding stock, or threaded barrel. Firearms lawfully owned before the ban may be grandfathered depending on the state's specific law.

Connecticut limits magazine capacity to 10 rounds. Magazines that can hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition are prohibited from sale and, in some cases, possession. Magazines lawfully owned before the restriction took effect may be grandfathered. This applies to both handgun and rifle magazines.

Red Flag Law

Connecticut has enacted a red flag law, also known as an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law. This allows family members, law enforcement, or in some states other designated individuals to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from a person who is deemed to be a danger to themselves or others. The process involves a hearing, and the subject has the right to contest the order. If granted, firearms are temporarily confiscated and the individual is prohibited from purchasing new firearms for the duration of the order, typically 6-12 months.

Gun Show Regulations in Connecticut

Gun shows in Connecticut follow the same laws that apply to all firearm sales. Licensed dealers (FFLs) at gun shows must conduct background checks on all purchases, just as they would at their retail location. All sales at gun shows, including private sales between individuals, require a background check under state law. Gun shows typically require all firearms brought in for sale to be unloaded and secured with cable ties or similar safety devices. Individual show promoters may set additional rules.

FFL Transfer Rules

When purchasing a firearm online, the firearm must be shipped to a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) in Connecticut for the transfer. The buyer then completes the standard Form 4473 and background check at the FFL's location. FFL transfer fees in Connecticut typically range from $20 to $75 per firearm. Use our FFL dealer directory to find transfer-friendly dealers near you.

Key Considerations for Connecticut Residents

Connecticut maintains a permit-based system for concealed carry, balancing Second Amendment rights with regulatory oversight. Gun owners should stay informed of any legislative changes, as firearms laws are frequently updated. The information on this page reflects the law as of 2026, but laws can change at any time. Always consult the full text of current state statutes or a licensed attorney in Connecticut before making legal decisions based on this guide.

For more information on firearms in Connecticut, visit our FFL dealer directory for Connecticut, browse upcoming gun shows in Connecticut, or check the concealed carry reciprocity map to see which states honor Connecticut's carry permits.

Key Statutes & Citations

Conn. Gen. Stat. § 29-28 — Permit to Carry Pistol or Revolver
Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53-202a — Assault Weapons
Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53-202w — Large Capacity Magazines
Conn. Gen. Stat. § 29-36f — Eligibility Certificate for Pistols and Revolvers
Conn. Gen. Stat. § 29-37a — Sale of Firearms

What Changed in 2026

No significant firearms legislation was enacted in Connecticut during the 2026 legislative session. The state's major gun laws, including the assault weapon ban and magazine capacity limit, have remained unchanged since their initial passage in the early 2010s.

Legislative Landscape

Connecticut has maintained relatively strict firearms laws in recent years, with a focus on public safety and gun violence prevention. The state's assault weapon ban and magazine capacity restrictions remain in place, and the permitting system for handgun and long gun purchases continues to be enforced.

Buying a Handgun

In Connecticut, the purchase of a handgun requires an eligibility certificate and a background check. Individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun. The eligibility certificate application process involves a background check, fingerprinting, and completion of a safety training course. There is no waiting period for handgun purchases in Connecticut.

Buying a Rifle or Shotgun

The purchase of a rifle or shotgun in Connecticut generally follows the same rules as handgun purchases, with a few minor differences. Individuals must be at least 18 years old to purchase a long gun, and the eligibility certificate requirement applies to these purchases as well. Connecticut does not have any additional restrictions on the types of long guns that can be purchased, beyond the federal assault weapon ban.

Private Sales

For private party sales of firearms in Connecticut, a background check is required, and the transaction must be conducted through a licensed firearms dealer. The buyer must present their eligibility certificate, and the dealer will initiate the background check. Private sellers are required to maintain a record of the sale, including the buyer's name, address, and certificate number.

Permits & Licensing Details

Connecticut requires a permit to carry a handgun, either openly or concealed. The permit application process involves a background check, fingerprinting, and completion of a safety training course. Permits are valid for 5 years and can be renewed. Non-residents may also apply for a Connecticut carry permit, which is valid for the same duration as a resident permit.

In addition to the carry permit, Connecticut also requires an eligibility certificate for the purchase of pistols and revolvers. This certificate is obtained through a separate application process and is valid for 5 years.

Carrying in a Vehicle

In Connecticut, the rules for carrying firearms in a vehicle depend on the type of firearm and whether the individual has a valid permit. For handguns, a valid permit to carry is required, and the handgun must be unloaded and stored in the trunk or a locked container. For long guns, they must be unloaded and stored in a locked container or trunk, regardless of whether the individual has a permit.

No-Carry Zones

In Connecticut, firearms are prohibited in the following locations, even for individuals with a valid permit:

Schools and school grounds
Courthouses and other government buildings
Establishments that derive more than 50% of their gross sales from the sale of alcoholic beverages
Polling places during elections
Houses of worship, unless the house of worship authorizes the possession of firearms

Shipping & FFL Transfers

Firearms shipped into Connecticut from out of state must be transferred through a licensed firearms dealer, who will conduct a background check on the recipient. The state charges a $20 fee for this transfer process, in addition to any fees charged by the dealer. Connecticut does not have any other state-specific requirements for the receipt of firearms shipped from outside the state.

Revision History

2026-03-14 — Comprehensive content update: added statute citations, vehicle carry rules, no-carry zones, permit details, buying rules by firearm type, and shipping/transfer notes.

Concealed Carry Reciprocity

Connecticut honors concealed carry permits from 0 states.

Reciprocity agreements change frequently. Verify current recognition with your state attorney general before traveling with a firearm.

Full reciprocity map →

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Connecticut?

Yes. Connecticut requires: Permit required for handguns and long guns.

Is Connecticut a permitless carry state?

No. Connecticut requires a concealed carry permit or license to carry concealed in public.

What is the waiting period for buying a gun in Connecticut?

Connecticut has no waiting period. Once the background check is approved, the buyer may take immediate possession.

Can I openly carry a firearm in Connecticut?

Permitted with permit only

Does Connecticut have a red flag law?

Yes. Connecticut has an Extreme Risk Protection Order (red flag) law that allows courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger.

Does Connecticut ban assault weapons or limit magazine capacity?

Yes. Connecticut has an assault weapons ban. Magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds.