Ohio Concealed Handgun License (CHL)
Everything you need to know to apply for your Ohio CHL, including requirements, fees, and an interactive reciprocity map.
Overview
Requirements
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a resident of Ohio
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Not be a fugitive from justice
- Not be under indictment or convicted of a felony
- Not be under indictment or convicted of a drug offense
- Not be an unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance
- Not have been adjudicated mentally incompetent or committed to a mental institution
- Not be subject to a civil protection order or temporary protection order
- Complete an approved 8-hour handgun training course (including 2 hours live-fire)
Step-by-Step Application Process
Complete Required Training
Complete an 8-hour handgun training course that includes classroom instruction on Ohio concealed carry laws and 2 hours of live-fire range time. The course must be taught by an NRA certified instructor or equivalent.
Gather Required Documents
You will need:
- Completed training certificate
- Valid Ohio driver license or state ID
- Proof of Ohio residency (utility bill, bank statement, or lease)
- Passport-style photograph
Download the Application
Download and complete the CHL application from the Ohio Attorney General website: Ohio CHL Application Form
Visit Your County Sheriff Office
Bring your completed application, supporting documents, and payment to your county sheriff office. You will be fingerprinted during your visit. The fee is $67 for new applications or $50 for renewals.
Background Check & Processing
The sheriff will conduct a background check through local, state, and federal databases. By law, the sheriff has 45 days to issue or deny your license.
Receive Your License
If approved, you will be notified to pick up your Ohio CHL. Your license is valid for 5 years from the date of issue.
Ready to Get Your Ohio Permit?
Enroll in Ohio Concealed Carry License Training — 100% online, NRA certified instruction.
Enroll Now — $89Ohio CHL Reciprocity Map
See which states honor your Ohio Concealed Handgun License. Hover over (or tap on mobile) any state for details.
Your Ohio CHL is honored in 38 states
States That Honor Ohio CHL
Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
States That Do Not Honor Ohio CHL
California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Washington
Official Resources
Disclaimer: Reciprocity laws change frequently. Always verify current reciprocity agreements with the destination state before traveling. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.