Indiana Handgun Law
Questions & Answers
Q: Is a license to carry a handgun required in Indiana?
A: No, a permit or license is not required to possess or carry a handgun, shotgun, or rifle in Indiana after July 1, 2022. Handguns, shotguns, and rifles are allowed in the vehicles of all persons 18 years of age and older who have not been deemed an “improper person” by the state. An improper person could be someone with a felony conviction, domestic violence offense, or has a dangerous mental illness, among other disqualifying reasons.
In short, any proper person, as defined in Ind. Code § 35-47-1-7, may legally carry a handgun, concealed or openly, or have a handgun in their vehicle without a license. Ind. Code 35-47-2-1.
Q: Should I still apply for a license to carry a handgun?
A: If you plan to carry a handgun in another state, you may still want to apply for a license. To apply for a Free Lifetime Handgun Permit, visit the Indiana State Police website at www.in.gov/isp.
Q: Is open carry legal in Indiana?
A: Yes, both openly carrying or concealing a firearm are legal in Indiana and does not require an additional license.
Q: Are there restrictions on where I can carry a firearm?
A: Yes, there are some restrictions. As a responsible gun owner, be sure to take note of these restricted areas. Indiana law prohibits the carrying of a firearm in schools, secure areas of airports, commercial or chartered aircrafts, casinos, the Indiana Government Center, the State Fairgrounds (unless the gun is for sale or trade at a fairgrounds event) and penal institutions, among other locations.
Be aware – federal law prohibits firearms in certain locations, including all “federal facilities” and in “school zones” (including within 1,000 feet of school property), subject to certain exceptions.
Q: Can a private business prohibit me from carrying a firearm?
A: Private businesses and property owners may restrict you from carrying a weapon on their property. Be mindful of signage when entering a private business. While it is generally not against the law to ignore a “no firearms” sign at a private business, you may commit criminal trespass for entering a business after you have been denied entry or have been asked to leave.
Q: Can I carry a gun in another state?
A: As of July 1, 2022, 32 states recognize Indiana’s License to Carry
a Handgun. The passage of Constitutional Carry will not affect these reciprocity agreements. Some states may require an individual to obtain an Indiana License to Carry a Handgun for non-residents to carry open or concealed. All Indiana Licenses to Carry a Handgun valid on July 1, 2022, will continue to be valid until their original expiration date (either 5 years or lifetime), and licenses will continue to be available to future applicants. To apply for an Indiana License to Carry a Handgun, visit the Indiana State Police website at www.IN.gov/ISP.
Q: Can my employer restrict me from bringing a gun to work?
A: Your employer may prohibit weapons in the workplace, even for those otherwise allowed to possess a weapon. However, Indiana law protects employees who keep firearms securely locked out of sight inside their vehicle while parked at the workplace with some exceptions. Ind. Code § 34-28-7-2(a)(2). In addition, Indiana law prohibits an employer from requiring an employee to disclose information about whether they own, possess, or use a firearm unless the firearm concerns the duties of their employment. Ind. Code § 34-28-8-6.
Q: Do I have to go through a background check if I want to buy a gun?
A: Federal law requires citizens who want to buy a firearm from a Federal Firearms License dealer to get a background check. Federal Firearms Licensers contact the FBI’s National Instant Background Check System, which verifies whether a citizen can possess a firearm under federal law. While background checks are required when purchasing a gun from a federally licensed dealer, Indiana does not require private sellers (sellers who are not licensed dealers) to initiate a background check when transferring a firearm. Be wary of the limitations on the transfer of firearms to prohibited persons and the law against “straw purchases.”
Q: Am I liable if my gun is stolen and used in a crime?
A: Although it is always a good practice to store your guns responsibly and take precautions to prevent them from being stolen, Indiana law provides immunity from civil liability if your gun or ammunition is taken from you illegally and used to hurt someone. Ind. Code § 34-30-20-1. Just to be safe, report any firearm or ammunition theft immediately.