Pistol Permits

R.I.G.L. § 11-47-18(a) allows Rhode Islanders to apply for a concealed or open carry permit from the Attorney General and provides that the Attorney General “may issue” a permit to a qualified applicant who is at least 21 years old “upon a proper showing of need.”  In addition, R.I.G.L. § 11-47-18(b) provides an avenue for discretionary issuance of permits to retired law enforcement officers through the Attorney General permitting process.

Individuals may also apply to local authorities for a license or permit to carry a concealed pistol or revolver under Rhode Island General Law §11-47-11.

On July 19, 2022, the Attorney General shared guidance with Rhode Islanders and local police departments advising that the state’s dual concealed carry permitting scheme is constitutional and unimpacted by a decision by the Supreme Court of the United States in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen. Read the guidance here.

On December 14, 2022, following the United States District Court issuing a decision refusing to enjoin Rhode Island’s ban on high capacity magazines, the Rhode Island Office of the Attorney General reminded Rhode Islanders of two key dates for recently enacted firearms safety laws in Rhode Island: (1) December 18, 2022, the last day for Rhode Islanders who were already in possession of large capacity magazines to come into compliance with the new ten (10) round limit; and (2) January 1, 2023, when new ammunition purchase requirements will come into effect. Read the guidance here.

For questions or status inquiries, please email CCWpermits@riag.ri.gov