Open Carry in North Dakota
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
North Dakota permits open carry without a permit for most residents.
How North Dakota treats Open Carry
North Dakota allows open carry of firearms without requiring a permit or license. This right extends to both handguns and long guns for most adults legally permitted to possess firearms. Concealed carry also does not require a permit in North Dakota. Certain locations such as courthouses and schools remain off-limits regardless of carry method.
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 North Dakota.