Is Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) Legal in Colorado? (2026)
No — Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is illegal in Colorado as of 2026.
Law changed in 2025: While bills to introduce constitutional carry have been proposed in 2025 and 2026, none have passed. New legislation in 2025 has increased training requirements for concealed carry permits.
Ad Space
Quick Answer
Colorado does not allow permitless concealed carry statewide. Concealed carry requires a permit issued under Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-12-203. Some local jurisdictions have additional restrictions.
- Age restriction: 21 years or older for concealed carry permit
- License or permit required
What the Law Says
Colorado law mandates that individuals obtain a permit to carry a concealed handgun, and carrying one without such a permit is illegal. Local jurisdictions may impose further restrictions beyond state law.
— Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-12-203
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Permitless Carry Rules | Concealed carry without a permit is illegal; permit required for concealed carry. |
| Permit Availability | Firearm sales regulated under federal and state laws; background checks required. |
| Penalties | Unlawful concealed carry can result in criminal penalties including misdemeanors. |
| Minimum Age | 21 years or older for concealed carry permit |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
While bills to introduce constitutional carry have been proposed in 2025 and 2026, none have passed. New legislation in 2025 has increased training requirements for concealed carry permits.
Enforcement Reality
Colorado requires a permit for concealed carry, and this is strictly enforced. Local jurisdictions may have additional restrictions, so it is important to be aware of local laws.
A common mistake is believing that open carry, which is generally allowed in many areas, also applies to concealed carry. Another is not being aware of local ordinances that are stricter than state law.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Colorado. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is illegal in Colorado. This activity can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
Colorado vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is fully legal in 23 states, restricted in 14, and illegal in 13. Colorado falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry):
Ad Space
Frequently Asked Questions
Is carrying a concealed weapon without a permit legal in Colorado?
What are the penalties for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Colorado?
How strictly does Colorado enforce its constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) laws?
What typically triggers enforcement in Colorado?
What is the minimum age for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Colorado?
Does the law on carrying a concealed weapon without a permit change at the Colorado border?
Interactive Tools
See your overall risk score for Colorado based on all your activities.
Get Risk Score →See how Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) laws change if you relocate from Colorado.
Relocation Analyzer →Check if Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) laws change at state borders on your route.
Plan Your Trip →Get Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) Legal Updates
Get notified when constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) laws change in any state.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Colorado Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in Colorado — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.
More Colorado Legality Guides
Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) in Other States
Ad Space