How do concealed-carry permits and open-carry laws differ?

Concealed-carry and open-carry laws differ primarily in how a firearm is displayed and the regulatory framework governing each practice.

Concealed Carry

Concealed carry refers to the practice of carrying a firearm in public in a manner that is hidden from plain view. State laws regarding concealed carry generally fall into four categories:1
* No-issue: Concealed carry is prohibited.2
* May-issue: Permits are granted at the discretion of local authorities, often requiring training and background checks.2
* Shall-issue: Authorities are required to issue permits if the applicant meets basic criteria, such as age requirements and the absence of felony convictions.2
* Constitutional carry (permitless): No permit is required to carry a concealed handgun.2

Open Carry

Open carry is the practice of carrying a firearm visibly in public. Unlike concealed carry, which focuses on handguns, open-carry laws are often more complex because they may regulate handguns and long guns (such as rifles and shotguns) differently. Regulations vary significantly by state, ranging from total prohibition to allowing the practice without a permit.34

While some argue that permit systems ensure safety through training and vetting, others contend that such requirements create unnecessary bureaucratic and financial barriers to exercising self-defense rights.56