Open Carry in Georgia
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Georgia permits open carry of firearms without a permit for most people statewide.
How Georgia treats Open Carry
Georgia allows open carry of handguns and long guns without a permit for most adults. However, private property owners may prohibit firearms on their premises, and certain locations like courthouses and schools remain restricted. Georgia also offers optional concealed carry permits for those who prefer that method. Local governments have limited ability to restrict open carry under state law.
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 Georgia.