Pennsylvania Concealed Weapon Permit Regulations
Pennsylvania allows licensed persons in the state to carry concealed weapons. The public law regarding conceal carry was updated in 1995 and has not changed since. The law sets out the requirements for applying for a license, eligibility requirements, causes for revocation and also specifies those who cannot carry concealed weapons. As in most states that allow concealed carry, law enforcement personnel, members of the armed forces and others do not have to apply for licensing.
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Application
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As of 2010, to get a concealed carry license for a firearm in Pennsylvania, you must apply with the sheriff in the county where you live. If you live in a large city, apply with the chief of police. Upon completion of the application and payment of the $19 fee, the sheriff conducts a criminal background check, inquires as to your character and reputation to ensure you won't act in a dangerous manner, checks your juvenile record and does a mental health check. If granted the license, which is good for five years, you may carry the weapon on both your person and in a car. If you are denied the license, the fee is refunded.
Eligibility
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To carry a firearm, you must be 21 years of age and have passed the background check. Reasons for ineligibility include bad reputations; drug convictions; adjudication as delinquent in the last 10 years; mental health problems; drug addiction; habitual drunkenness; felony convictions that have not been pardoned or overturned; out-of-state visitors who don't have a concealed carry license in their state; illegal aliens; fugitives from justice; or those who can't own a firearm in the United States.
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Miscellaneous Provisions
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Under certain circumstances, your license to carry a concealed weapon in Pennsylvania can be revoked. If your license is revoked, your application fee is not refunded. If your situation changes and you fall under any of the categories for ineligibility, your license will be revoked. The State Police and you will be notified and you are required to turn in your license within five days of receipt of the notification. You can appeal the revocation.
Pennsylvania does grant reciprocity with other states to allow you to carry a concealed weapon if you are authorized in your state of residence. These agreements are on a state-by-state basis. Check with the Pennsylvania attorney general's office to see if your state's licensing is recognized.
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