Ohio gun laws have changed significantly in recent years. Whether you’re a first-time gun owner or a longtime concealed carry permit holder, staying informed can help you exercise your rights and avoid legal trouble. Below are the most important things to know about Ohio gun laws in 2025.
If you’re facing a gun-related charge in Cincinnati or believe your rights were violated, call (513) 338-1890 or contact us online to set up a free consultation.
What You Need to Know About Ohio Gun Laws
Here are some of the most important things to know regarding concealed carry laws in Ohio:
1. Ohio Allows Permitless Concealed Carry
Since June 13, 2022, Ohio residents aged 21 and older can carry a concealed handgun without a permit, so long as they are legally allowed to possess a firearm. This is known as “constitutional carry.”
However, Concealed Handgun Licenses (CHLs) are still available for those seeking formal training or reciprocity in other states. CHL applicants must meet eligibility requirements related to age, residency, and training (waived for active-duty or honorably discharged military personnel). To qualify for a CHL in Ohio, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have lived in Ohio for at least 45 days
- Have lived in your current county for at least 30 days
- Provide proof of firearms competency training or equivalent military service
Applications are processed through your local sheriff’s office, and include a background check and mental competency review. Although permitless carry is now legal, many Ohioans still pursue CHLs to maintain reciprocity with other states and benefit from the background check exemption when purchasing firearms.
2. Ohio Is an Open-Carry State
Open carry is legal in Ohio without a license. Any law-abiding resident may carry a visible firearm in public. However, restrictions still apply in certain areas, such as government buildings, private property with “no guns” signage, and school zones.
Being informed about location-specific restrictions is critical, even for lawfully carried weapons.
3. You Cannot Carry Firearms Everywhere
Even with constitutional carry or a CHL, Ohio law prohibits carrying firearms in the following places:
- School safety zones (unless secured and locked in your vehicle)
- Government buildings and courthouses
- Police stations and jails
- Airport terminals beyond TSA checkpoints
- Facilities for mental health and developmental disabilities
- Businesses with posted “no firearms” signage
- Bars or restaurants serving alcohol—unless you have a CHL and are not drinking
4. Stand Your Ground Law Applies in Ohio
Ohio law no longer requires you to retreat before using deadly force in self-defense, defense of another, or defense of your home. This “Stand Your Ground” policy applies as long as you are in a place you are legally allowed to be.
This law strengthens your right to defend yourself, but it also comes with legal scrutiny. If you’ve used force in self-defense, speak with an attorney immediately.
5. Certain Individuals Are Prohibited from Owning Firearms
Ohio and federal law both prohibit the following individuals from possessing firearms:
- Convicted felons
- Individuals under indictment for a felony
- Those with substance abuse problems
- People found mentally incompetent or involuntarily committed
- Individuals with a conviction for domestic violence
Other Ohio Gun Law Updates
- Employers & Guns: Your employer may prohibit firearms in the workplace, but they cannot stop you from keeping a secured firearm in your personal vehicle.
- No Red Flag Law: Ohio does not have a Red Flag Law (ERPO), meaning no legal mechanism currently exists to temporarily remove firearms from a person deemed dangerous without a crime being charged.
- Vehicle Transport Rules: You may transport a loaded handgun in your vehicle if you’re eligible for permitless carry. Without a license or CHL, firearms must be unloaded and properly stored.
- State Preemption Law: Local governments may not enact firearm regulations stricter than state law, per ORC § 9.68.
Background Check Exemptions for CHL Holders
Under Ohio law, individuals with a valid Concealed Handgun License (CHL) issued on or after March 23, 2015 are exempt from additional background checks when purchasing a firearm from a dealer. This provision streamlines the purchase process for responsible gun owners and reduces the administrative burden on the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
It’s important to note that this exemption applies only to CHLs in good standing and does not eliminate background checks for first-time buyers. Dealers still have the discretion to conduct a background check if they have concerns.
If you’re unsure of your eligibility or have had your rights revoked you may be able to apply for restoration of rights through the court.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio Gun Laws
Do I need a license to buy a gun in Ohio?
No. Ohio does not require a license or permit to buy or possess a firearm, whether it’s a handgun, rifle, or shotgun.
Can I carry a gun in a restaurant that serves alcohol?
Yes, but only if you have a CHL and are not consuming alcohol. Without a CHL, carry is not permitted in these establishments.
Can military members carry without a CHL?
Yes. Active-duty military and some veterans are exempt from training requirements and may carry without a civilian CHL, provided they meet other legal qualifications.
What if I’ve been charged with a gun crime in Ohio?
Contact an experienced Ohio weapons crimes attorney right away. There are even times when a mistake on a gun application can result in charges, and any gun conviction can result in serious consequences, including prison time and loss of your right to own firearms.
How an Ohio Weapons Crimes Attorney Can Help You
In Ohio, you have the right to carry a concealed weapon. If you or a loved one have had your concealed carrying rights violated, Ohio weapons lawyer Brad Groene of Luftman, Heck & Associates today. We can investigate your case, evaluate your claim, and fight for any compensation you are owed. Contact us today at (513) 338-1890 for a free initial consultation.
