Open Carry in Alaska
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Alaska permits permitless open carry statewide for most lawful firearm owners.
How Alaska treats Open Carry
Alaska allows open carry of firearms without a state permit. Both residents and non-residents may openly carry handguns and long guns in most public places. Certain locations prohibit firearms, including schools, courthouses, and federal buildings. Alaska also honors concealed carry permits and recognizes permits from other states.
The general definition of Open Carry
The legal right to carry a firearm openly and visibly in public.
Open carry means carrying a firearm in plain view on your person or in a vehicle in public spaces. Unlike concealed carry, the weapon is visible to others. Open carry laws vary widely by state and sometimes by city or county within a state. Some states allow open carry without any permit, while others prohibit it entirely or require a permit even for visible firearms.
Read the full Open Carry entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Alaska.