Concealed Carry in Hawaii
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Hawaii requires a permit for concealed carry and rarely issues them except to security professionals and law enforcement.
How Hawaii treats Concealed Carry
Hawaii is one of the most restrictive states for concealed carry rights. The state requires applicants to obtain a permit from their county police chief and demonstrate an urgent need for self-defense, a standard that is rarely met. Most permits go to security guards, armored car personnel, and retired law enforcement officers. Ordinary citizens face significant barriers to carrying concealed firearms in Hawaii.
The general definition of Concealed Carry
The legal right to carry a hidden firearm in public, typically requiring a permit.
Concealed carry refers to carrying a firearm on your person in a hidden manner in public spaces. Most states require you to obtain a permit from law enforcement before you can legally concealed carry, though some states allow it without a permit. Requirements vary significantly by state and include background checks, training courses, and fees. Concealed carry laws balance Second Amendment rights with public safety concerns and differ dramatically from state to state.
Read the full Concealed 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 Hawaii.