New Hampshire Concealed Carry Permit Guide (2026)
Everything you need to know about getting and using a CCW in New Hampshire — requirements, application steps, training, reciprocity, restricted places, and self-defense laws.
How to Apply in New Hampshire
Step-by-step process for getting your New Hampshire concealed carry permit through the Local Police Chief.
- 1Optional but recommended: complete a basic handgun safety course.
- 2Gather required documents: government-issued ID, proof of New Hampshire residency, and any training certificates.
- 3No fingerprints required — proceed directly to application.
- 4Submit your application to the Local Police Chief and pay the $10 fee.
- 5Complete a state and federal background check.
- 6Receive your permit within 14 days after approval.
Training Requirements
No state-mandated training.
Where You Can't Carry in New Hampshire
Federal law and New Hampshire statute restrict concealed carry in several locations. Always check posted signage.
- K-12 schools and school grounds
- Federal buildings and post offices
- Courthouses and judicial buildings
- Polling places on election day
- Establishments serving primarily alcohol
- Private property posted against carry
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New Hampshire Self-Defense & Carry Laws
Key statutes that affect how you can legally carry and use a firearm for self-defense in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire Reciprocity
States that currently honor a New Hampshire concealed carry permit. Click any state for its own guide.
Renewal
A New Hampshire permit is valid for 5 years. Renewal costs $10 and should be started 90 days before expiration to avoid lapse.
Official Resources
Resident and Non-Resident Permits: Available for $100.
Recommended Courses
Some recommended courses are operated by Safehouse Defense, the company behind this site. We identify those relationships so you can evaluate our recommendations.
How we rank: relevance to the permit you are pursuing, whether the course can be completed online, alignment with the issuing authority's published application steps, price transparency, and application support. Courses marked "Editor's Pick" are operated by Safehouse Defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New Hampshire require a permit to carry concealed?+
New Hampshire allows permitless (constitutional) carry for qualifying adults 18+, though a permit is still useful for reciprocity in other states.
What is the minimum age for a New Hampshire CCW?+
You must be at least 18 years old. Active-duty military and honorably discharged veterans may qualify earlier in some cases.
How much does a New Hampshire CCW permit cost?+
The state fee in New Hampshire is approximately $10. Plan for additional costs for training, fingerprints, and photos.
How long does New Hampshire take to process a CCW application?+
Typical New Hampshire processing time is 14 days after a complete application is submitted.
Is training required for a New Hampshire concealed carry permit?+
New Hampshire does not require state-mandated training, but a basic firearms safety course is strongly recommended.
How long is a New Hampshire CCW permit valid?+
A New Hampshire permit is valid for 5 years. Renewal currently costs $10.
How many states recognize a New Hampshire CCW permit?+
36 states currently honor a New Hampshire concealed carry permit. Reciprocity changes — verify before traveling.
Does New Hampshire offer a non-resident CCW permit?+
Yes. Non-residents can apply; the fee is approximately $100.
Where can't you carry concealed in New Hampshire?+
Common off-limits places include: K-12 schools and school grounds, Federal buildings and post offices, Courthouses and judicial buildings, Polling places on election day, Establishments serving primarily alcohol, plus other state-specific locations.
Does New Hampshire have a duty to inform law enforcement?+
New Hampshire does not have a statutory duty to inform, but disclosing during a traffic stop is generally recommended.
Disclaimer: Concealed carry laws change frequently. This guide is for general information only and is not legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the Local Police Chief before applying or carrying.