Open Carry in New Jersey
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
New Jersey prohibits open carry; a permit is required for any firearm possession in public.
How New Jersey treats Open Carry
New Jersey effectively bans open carry and requires residents to obtain a Permit to Carry a Handgun from local police before carrying any firearm in public. The state imposes strict licensing requirements and generally does not issue permits for self-defense purposes. Even transporting firearms requires specific legal compliance. New Jersey maintains some of the nation's most restrictive firearm carry laws.
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 New Jersey.