Index

Iowa Constitutional Carry Law

Summary

In 2021, Iowa became a 'Constitutional Carry' state, meaning adults who can legally own a firearm no longer need a state permit to carry it concealed or openly.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    If you are 21 or older and not legally prohibited from owning a gun (e.g., not a convicted felon), you can carry a concealed handgun in public without a permit.
  • 02.
    You are no longer required to undergo state-mandated firearms training or a background check to carry in public (though background checks are still required when buying from a federally licensed dealer).
  • 03.
    You still cannot carry a weapon onto school grounds, inside courthouses, or into private businesses that have posted signs prohibiting weapons.

Penalties

  • 01.
    Carrying a firearm while intoxicated (under the influence of alcohol or drugs) remains a serious crime and voids your right to carry.

Verified Citations

Iowa Code Section 724

Source
"A person who is not otherwise prohibited by state or federal law from possessing or transporting a firearm... may go armed with, carry, or transport a concealed pistol or revolver..."