Most states allow the carrying of concealed weapons by persons who obtain a permit. States that issue CCW permits are generally categorized as either "shall issue" or "may issue" states. In "shall issue" states, law enforcement officials are required to issue a permit to anyone who meets certain minimal statutory requirements, e.g., that the person is not a convicted felon or mentally incompetent. Once a permit has been issued, the permit holder is allowed to carry a loaded, concealed firearm in public places (parks, sports stadiums, bars, shopping centers, etc.). Some laws prohibit concealed weapons in government buildings and other specified locations.
Twenty-seven states are "shall issue" states (Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming). In Mississippi, however, a permit will not be issued to any person who has been arrested for or formally charged with any crime.
Fourteen states are "may issue" states. In those states (Alabama, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island), law enforcement officials have discretion regarding the issuance of a CCW permit, often granting permits only to those who can show a demonstrable need for a concealed weapon.
Six states (Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio and Wisconsin) and the District of Columbia prohibit the carrying of concealed weapons altogether. In April of 1999, voters in one of those states - Missouri- rejected a ballot initiative to repeal the state's concealed weapons ban.
Vermont is the only state that allows its residents to carry concealed weapons without a permit.
