North Carolina firearms laws govern how residents and visitors may purchase, possess, carry, and use firearms within the state. This guide covers the most important aspects of North Carolina gun laws as of 2026, including purchase requirements, carry permits, waiting periods, and self-defense statutes. Always consult official state statutes and legal counsel for binding legal guidance.
Permit to purchase: Purchase permit or CHP for handguns. North Carolina requires a permit, license, or ID card before you can purchase certain firearms. This additional step involves a background check and may add processing time to your purchase. Buyers must be at least 21 years old for handguns and 18 years old for long guns (rifles and shotguns). All purchases through licensed FFL dealers require a federal NICS background check.
Background checks: NICS through FFL plus purchase permit background check. When you purchase a firearm on WeaponDepot, it ships to your chosen FFL dealer in North Carolina who handles all required paperwork and background check processing.
Waiting period: No waiting period.
Open carry: Legal without a permit.
Concealed carry: CHP required. North Carolina operates under a permit-based carry system. Residents must apply for and obtain a concealed carry permit before legally carrying a concealed firearm in North Carolina. Check local requirements for application procedures, fees, and training requirements.
Handgun purchase permit system, no assault weapons ban. Federal restrictions on NFA items (short-barreled rifles, suppressors, machine guns) still apply and require ATF approval through the appropriate tax stamp process.
North Carolina follows the Stand Your Ground law, which means individuals have no duty to retreat before using force in self-defense when they are in a place they have a legal right to be. The state also provides Castle Doctrine protections, protecting individuals who use force against intruders in their home, vehicle, or place of business.
North Carolina has not enacted a red flag law. There are currently no provisions for courts to issue Extreme Risk Protection Orders. Additionally, North Carolina has state preemption, meaning local municipalities cannot enact firearms laws stricter than state law.
When you purchase a firearm on WeaponDepot, it ships directly to a licensed FFL dealer in North Carolina. At the dealer, you complete ATF Form 4473 and undergo the required background check. FFL transfer fees in North Carolina typically range from $15 to $75 per firearm. Use our FFL dealer directory for North Carolina to compare fees and find the best dealer near you.