The Second Amendment is a well-established part of American society and culture. With that comes the right to carry a firearm for self-defense. But that also means you need to know the ins and outs of gun ownership.
A license to carry (LTC) is one way to legally carry a concealed weapon in public. While some states have strict guidelines, others are much more lenient.
What Does an LTC Allow You to Carry?
More so than a restricted carry permit, an unrestricted LTC means that you’re able to carry any type of firearm you want.
In general, this means handguns, shotguns, and rifles. This also includes any number of ammunition clips or magazines, such as 38 special ammo bulk (the best for personal protection).
The main difference between unrestricted and restricted is the type of firearm you can carry. Unrestricted LTCs allow you to carry any type of firearm you want, regardless of the laws surrounding that type.
Who Can Apply for an LTC?
Anyone who meets the government requirements and can prove that they’re a law-abiding citizen is eligible to apply for an LTC. Your age and criminal record, however, do factor into your ability to get a permit.
If you’re younger than 21, you’re required to wait until you are able to legally purchase a gun. This is due to a clause in the Brady Act which means that you can’t get an LTC until you’re 21.
Where Can You Carry a Firearm with an LTC?
The restrictions on the type of permit you have will determine where you can carry a firearm.
For an unrestricted permit, the law states that you can carry a weapon on your person in a public place.
Restricted permits, on the other hand, generally allow you to carry a firearm in public places that are not designated as sensitive areas, such as schools, public transportation, and public events.
Limitations Of Carrying a Firearm with an LTC
Although an LTC allows gun owners to carry a firearm in public, there are laws about how it must be done.
For instance, you must be able to conceal the weapon from plain view and have it on you at all times. You also must not be intoxicated while carrying a firearm.
Carrying a firearm in public can have its limitations. For example, if you’re visiting a state that restricts or prohibits LTC holders from carrying weapons, you can’t carry your weapon. You may also be asked to leave a particular location if there are signs posted against firearms.
What You Need to Know About Concealed Carry Permits in Your State
While you’re probably aware that all states have different laws surrounding LTCs, you might not know what type of permit your state offers.
Confusingly, each state has different names for its permits. That means that even if you know what type of permit you’re looking for, you may not be able to find it on your state’s website.
When researching your state’s concealed carry permits, you should also keep an eye out for the laws surrounding firearms in your state. When you’ve applied for your permit, make sure you are fully aware of the laws surrounding it. That way, you can be prepared for any situation that may arise.
Tips For Carrying a Firearm in Public
- Be sure your gun is properly loaded and outfitted with a safety lock.
- When you’re carrying a firearm, always keep it on your person. You don’t want to leave it in your car, even if it’s in a lockbox.
- Don’t flaunt your firearm in public. Make sure to conceal it from plain view so that you don’t receive any unwanted attention or trouble from law enforcement officers.
- Be prepared to have someone ask you what you’re doing. You may even have to prove yourself to others, so be ready to show your permit and know the laws surrounding your LTC.
- If you’re unsure about all of this, take a firearms training course to become more familiar with the proper way to carry a gun in public.
Conclusion
While carrying a firearm in public is a right many people exercise, it’s also important to remember that your rights can be taken away if you’ve been convicted of a felony.
Depending on your state, you may be completely unable to ever own or carry a gun again. It’s important to be informed about the laws surrounding gun ownership and when and where you can carry a firearm.
It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the types of permits available in your state so that you can apply for one that best suits your needs.
