Open Carry in Rhode Island
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Rhode Island prohibits open carry; you must obtain a concealed carry permit to carry any firearm.
How Rhode Island treats Open Carry
Rhode Island does not permit open carry of firearms in public. Anyone wishing to carry a firearm must apply for a concealed carry permit through their local police department or the Attorney General. The state treats open carry as illegal, making Rhode Island one of the more restrictive states on this issue. Permits are issued on a discretionary basis, meaning authorities evaluate each application individually.
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 Rhode Island.