📅 2026 Update: Recent Developments in Louisiana Gun Laws

Since the original article was published, there have been significant updates to gun laws in various states, including those that may affect Louisiana residents. Changes in nearby states could influence how guns are bought, owned, and carried in Louisiana. Readers can find more detailed information about Louisiana's specific laws further down this page.

🔍 Recent Changes in Nearby States

Several states have updated their gun laws from 2024 to 2026. For example, Michigan now requires a firearms purchase license or a concealed handgun license for anyone buying a firearm. This is a shift from earlier laws and adds a requirement for background checks.

  • 🔫 Alabama enacted "permitless carry" in 2022. This means people can carry concealed handguns in public without needing a permit.
  • 🔑 Kentucky also removed its requirement for a license and background check for carrying concealed firearms in public as of 2019.
  • 🚪 Ohio repealed its permit requirement for concealed carry, making it easier for people 21 and older to carry handguns without prior checks.

💲 Current Fees and Costs

The costs for obtaining concealed carry licenses vary by state.

  • 💵 In Michigan, fees depend on the county.
  • 🏷️ Alabama sets fees through the county sheriff's office, which can differ from one area to another.
  • 💳 Kentucky and Ohio also have fees set by their respective state police or sheriff's offices, varying by county as well.

📝 Forms and Steps

To obtain a concealed carry license, applicants must follow specific steps.

  • ✅ Michigan requires a background check through the Department of State Police.
  • 📋 In Alabama, applicants go through the sheriff's office, which conducts its own background checks.
  • 🔍 Kentucky and Ohio also require background checks through their state police or sheriff's offices.

⏳ Processing Times

Background checks are important and can take time.

  • ⏲️ In Michigan, checks are handled by the Department of State Police.
  • 📅 Alabama, Kentucky, and Ohio have their own processes through local law enforcement, which can affect how quickly an applicant receives approval.

📌 Key Points to Remember

  • 🔑 Changes in nearby states affect gun laws in Louisiana.
  • 💵 License fees vary by county and state.
  • 📝 Applicants must complete background checks before purchasing firearms.
  • ⏳ Processing times for approvals may differ based on state and local requirements.

💡 Tips for Understanding Louisiana Gun Laws

Review your personal situation with your attorney to ensure you understand how the laws apply to you.

🕵️‍♂️ Know the Requirements

In Louisiana, applicants must meet state criteria for firearm ownership. This typically includes being a U.S. citizen or legal resident and being at least 21 years old, similar to other states.

📋 Complete Background Checks

Before purchasing a firearm in Louisiana, ensure that you have completed the necessary background checks. This is important for compliance with state laws.

📖 Stay Updated on State Laws

Gun laws can change. Keep track of any new legislation in Louisiana or surrounding states to stay informed about your rights and responsibilities.

🏢 Seek Assistance from Local Agencies

Local law enforcement agencies can provide information on gun laws and the application process for permits. This can help clarify any questions you may have.

💬 Use Free Resources

Government agencies often provide free resources to understand gun laws better. Utilize these to stay informed and compliant.

🏆 Top Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section lists services that help with firearms purchases and related issues. These services were ranked based on Trustpilot data as of October 2026. Ratings can change over time, so consider this when making decisions.

🥇 1. GunBroker.com

GunBroker.com has been rated 4.6 by over 55,000 reviewers. This service is known for being an online marketplace for firearms and accessories. It facilitates transactions between buyers and sellers, which is valuable for those interested in purchasing firearms.

Reviewers often mention the wide selection available. However, some customers have noted that response times from customer service can be slow due to high sales volumes.

🆓 Free Government Assistance

Government agencies, such as the Michigan State Police and Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, provide free guidance on firearm purchases and background checks. These resources can help clarify the process and requirements.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing a Service

  • 💰 Costs associated with services.
  • 📊 User reviews to gauge reliability.
  • 🔒 Security measures for transactions.
  • 🚀 Speed of service.
  • 📞 Customer support availability.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What are the eligibility requirements for gun ownership in Louisiana?

To own a firearm in Louisiana, you must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident, at least 21 years old, and not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm.

🕒 How long does it take to process a background check?

The processing time for background checks can vary based on the agency handling it. Generally, they are completed before a firearm purchase.

🔄 Are there changes to concealed carry laws in Louisiana?

While this article focuses on nearby states, it's essential to check Louisiana's laws regularly for any updates or changes to concealed carry regulations.

📋 What should I prepare before applying for a concealed carry permit?

Gather necessary identification, proof of residency, and any required documentation. This can streamline the application process.

📞 Where can I get help with gun laws in Louisiana?

Local law enforcement agencies can provide assistance and information about gun laws and the application process for permits.

🔍 Can I carry a firearm in public without a permit in Louisiana?

Currently, Louisiana has specific requirements for carrying firearms in public. Be sure to check the latest regulations regarding permits and concealed carry.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Impacting Gun Laws

Recent court rulings have influenced gun laws, including the requirements for background checks and firearm ownership. These rulings connect directly to the laws discussed in this article.

For more recent rulings, feel free to check more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






LOUISIANA GUN LAWS & REGULATIONS UPDATE 2023

A DECADE OF CHANGE: UPDATED OVERVIEW OF LOUISIANA’S GUN LAWS & REGULATIONS TIMELINE (2013-2023)



Over the past ten years, Louisiana's gun laws have seen notable changes, reflecting the state's commitment to preserving Second Amendment rights while addressing evolving perspectives on firearm ownership and public safety. From concealed carry to background checks, these developments aim to find a balance between responsible gun ownership and community security. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the key advancements in Louisiana's gun laws and regulations from 2013 to 2023, structured in bullet points:

Louisiana Gun Laws

2013 - Concealed Carry Law Enhancement:


   - Louisiana enacts legislation to simplify the process for obtaining a concealed carry permit, emphasizing responsible firearm ownership.


2014 - Enhanced Reporting of Mental Health Records:


   - Louisiana improves the reporting of mental health records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to prevent firearm access by prohibited individuals.


2015 - Background Checks for Private Sales:


   - Legislation is introduced to require background checks for private firearm sales at gun shows, promoting responsible transfers and closing potential loopholes.


2016 - "Stand Your Ground" Law Enactment:


   - Louisiana adopts a "Stand Your Ground" law, allowing individuals to use deadly force in self-defense without a duty to retreat under certain circumstances.


2017 - Enhanced Penalties for Gun Crimes:


   - Legislation is introduced to impose stricter penalties for individuals convicted of gun-related crimes, aiming to deter illegal firearm use.


2018 - Firearm Preemption Law:


   - Louisiana strengthens state preemption laws to prevent local jurisdictions from enacting firearm regulations that exceed state laws.


2019 - Enhanced Background Checks for Concealed Carry:


   - The state tightens the background check process for concealed carry permit applicants, focusing on mental health history and criminal records.


2020 - Reporting Lost or Stolen Firearms:


   - Legislation is introduced to require reporting lost or stolen firearms to law enforcement, aiming to prevent potential diversion to illegal markets.


2021 - Firearm Storage Recommendations:


   - Louisiana introduces guidelines promoting responsible firearm storage practices, particularly in households with minors, to prevent unauthorized access.


2022 - "Red Flag" Law Consideration:


    - Louisiana explores the implementation of "red flag" laws, allowing law enforcement and family members to seek temporary firearm removal for individuals showing signs of danger.


2022 - Enhanced Background Checks for All Firearm Sales:


    - Louisiana explores potential regulations to require background checks for all firearm sales, including private transactions.


2023 - Firearm Training Requirements for Concealed Carry:


    - Proposed legislation aims to enhance firearm training requirements for concealed carry permit applicants, emphasizing responsible gun ownership and firearm handling skills.


2023 - School Safety Legislation:


    - Louisiana explores legislation to enhance school safety by permitting certain school staff to carry concealed firearms on school grounds, subject to proper training.


2023 - "Stand Your Ground" Law Review:


    - Louisiana reviews its "Stand Your Ground" law to assess its impact on self-defense rights and community safety.


Louisiana's gun laws have evolved significantly over the past decade, reflecting the state's dedication to responsible firearm ownership and community safety. From concealed carry regulations to discussions on "red flag" laws and the enhancement of self-defense rights, these changes underscore Louisiana's proactive approach to firearm regulation. As the state continues to adapt its laws, it remains essential for stakeholders, policymakers, and citizens to engage in informed discussions that balance individual rights with the security of the community.



Like many states in the South, Louisiana possesses a casual stance towards gun laws. When compared to other jurisdictions, a prospective firearm purchaser in Louisiana will encounter less regulation and restriction in regards to purchasing, and registering a gun.


A popular movement known as the Brady Campaign (a spin-off of the Brady bill which required background checks for all firearm sales), creates a scorecard for all 50 states based on their particular laws towards obtaining a gun license and gun permit. The higher the score, the stricter the policy and vice-versa. Out of a possible 100 points, Louisiana managed to score a 2.


When purchasing a firearm in a Louisiana gun shop, a buyer will encounter limited procedural barriers. Louisiana is commonly referred to as a "gun loving state." The only necessary requirement for purchase is a valid driver's license, which can prove the buyer meets the federal age limits: 21 for handguns and 18 for shotguns or rifles. There is no gun permit required to purchase a firearm in the state, nor is a gun license mandatory to detail ownership. Registration of long guns or handguns is also not required under Louisiana law.


There are no restrictions on long guns in the state; the only areas where an individual cannot carry a loaded shotgun or rifle are on college campuses, or properties that specifically designate the barring of weapons. Areas such as schools, hospitals, municipalities, and places of worship often disallow carrying privileges. It is also permissible to transport loaded long guns in an automobile without a gun license.


The most complex variation in Louisiana gun law revolves around a gun permit to conceal a loaded handgun. To qualify for a concealed gun permit an individual must be at least 21 years of age, a resident of Louisiana for at least 6 months, pass a basic weapons training course, take safety classes, and possess no background of felony convictions, alcohol or drug abuse, and mental illness. Once approved the permit takes 10 days to issue and is valid throughout the state for 4 years.


Similar to purchasers of firearms, gun dealers in Louisiana face limited restriction. Louisiana requires no state license for gun dealers, nor requires records to be kept which would document information about the buyer and the weapon sold. Police inspections, or security precautions are also not placed on owners of retail gun shops in the state.


There is no limit or restrictions on bulk purchases-most states institute a one handgun per month policy. Louisiana also does not require a background check on any sort of firearm purchase. Louisiana gun law also places no restrictions on ammunition, assault weapons testing, childproofing of weapons, or guns at the workplace.


Although Louisiana has adopted a lenient stance in regards to the obtainment of a gun license or gun permit, there are still miscellaneous laws imposed to prevent the sale and transfer of illegal guns. It is illegal to tamper with, or remove any numbers on a firearm, which aid in the identification process.


If serial numbers are altered, the gun becomes "hot", and selling, transferring, or purchasing such a weapon is considered illegal under Louisiana gun law. It is also illegal to operate any form of firearm while under the influence of drugs or alcohol in Louisiana. These laws are enforced to the fullest extent, and are crucial in limiting the amount of illegal murders via firearm in the state.


Based on a ratio of population over amount of violent crimes, Louisiana currently ranks as the fourth most dangerous state in the country. With one violent crime per every 137 citizens, Louisiana is only behind Nevada, South Carolina, and Tennessee in this useful statistic. Granted, there are many cultural and economic factors that go into these numbers; however, one can assume that the absence of regulations in the gun license or gun permit process only augment the state's high violent crime statistics.