Kentucky Concealed Carry Permit Guide

Educational Kentucky CCW permit guide for 2026: eligibility, application research, costs, training questions, and current reciprocity checks.

Permit Type
Shall Issue / Constitutional Carry
Processing Time
60 days
Permit Cost
$60
Reciprocity
36 States

Kentucky Concealed Carry Overview

Kentucky enacted constitutional carry in June 2019. The state's CCDW (Carrying Concealed Deadly Weapons) license remains available for those seeking reciprocity benefits when traveling to other states.

✓ Constitutional Carry State

Kentucky CCW Permit Requirements

To obtain a concealed carry permit in Kentucky, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Must be 21 years of age or older
Must be a Kentucky resident
Must complete an approved training course
Must not be a convicted felon
Must not be subject to a domestic violence order

Kentucky Permit Details & Costs

Minimum Age

21 years old

Training Required

Training required for CCDW license

Total Cost

$60 (application fee)

Reciprocity Check

Verify before travel

How to Apply for a Kentucky Concealed Carry Permit

Follow these steps to apply for your Kentucky concealed carry permit:

1

Complete an approved firearms training course

2

Apply at your county sheriff's office

3

Provide fingerprints and photo

4

Pass background check

5

Pay the application fee

6

Receive license within 60 days

Verify Kentucky Training Requirements

Training rules vary by state and can require in-person instruction, live fire, specific instructors, or no course at all. Verify the current rule with the issuing authority before paying.

  • Confirm whether training is required before the application is filed.
  • Match the instructor, course format, and competency document to current state rules.
  • Ask whether in-person instruction, live fire, fingerprints, or additional filing steps apply.
  • Keep the course certificate and application records required by the issuing authority.
Compare CCW class options and verification questions

Kentucky Concealed Carry FAQ

What are the concealed carry permit requirements in Kentucky?

Must be 21 years of age or older. Must be a Kentucky resident. Must complete an approved training course. Must not be a convicted felon. Must not be subject to a domestic violence order.

How much does a Kentucky concealed carry permit cost?

The Kentucky concealed carry permit costs $60. Additional costs may include training course fees and fingerprinting services.

How long does it take to get a permit in Kentucky?

The typical processing time is 60 days. Starting your training early ensures you're ready to submit a complete application.

Does Kentucky have constitutional carry?

Current Kentucky law permits some eligible people to carry without a permit in defined circumstances. Verify the applicable age, location, and eligibility conditions before acting.

Can I complete Kentucky CCW training online?

Training rules vary by state and can require in-person instruction, live fire, specific instructors, or no course at all. Verify the current rule with the issuing authority before paying.

Which states recognize a Kentucky concealed carry permit?

Recognition is controlled by each destination state's current law. Check the issuing state and destination state's official sources before travel.

Considering an additional permit for travel?

If the New Hampshire nonresident route fits your plans, explore RushPermit’s optional paid application assistance. It does not replace the Kentucky process or training requirements.

SafetyCCW may earn a commission from a partner link. Your state's agency makes licensing decisions.