Idaho Enters into Right-to-Carry Reciprocity Agreements With 14 More States

On July 1, Idaho’s Office of the Attorney General sent a letter to all states requesting them to consider and establish recognition of Idaho’s license to carry a concealed weapon and/or enhanced license to carry a concealed weapon.  Idaho recognizes valid concealed carry permits from all states, but these formal agreements allow Idaho residents with a valid license to carry a concealed weapon to legally carry a concealed handgun for self-defense in certain other states.  Since then, Idaho has entered into full concealed carry reciprocity agreements with 14 states, bringing Idaho’s total number of reciprocity agreements to 19.  Of the 14 new states, South Carolina and Wyoming opted to recognize only the enhanced license to carry a concealed weapon. Not all states have responded to the letter at this time, so please check back for updates.  For a complete listing of states that currently recognize Idaho concealed carry licenses (both regular and enhanced-only), click here.  Please note - several states recognize Idaho concealed carry licenses in addition to those listed at the provided link; however, these states do not have an official agreement with the state of Idaho at this time.

Keep in mind:  While visiting a state that recognizes Idaho’s concealed weapons license, Idaho CWL holders are still subject to all laws of the state or locality that regulate the carrying of a weapon or a firearm.

Earlier this year, House Bill 192 passed in both chambers of the Idaho Legislature unanimously.  This bill was introduced by the House State Affairs Committee and advanced by Senator Chuck Winder (R-20) and state Representative Joe Palmer (R-20).  HB 192 created an enhanced license to carry concealed weapons option for those applicants who choose to undergo additional training for more carry benefits, and created expanded opportunities for reciprocity between Idaho and other states.  These improvements took effect on July 1.