New Jersey Open Carry Laws (2026)

Restricted: Open carry is prohibited in New Jersey — even with a Permit to Carry.

RestrictedVerified Jul 30, 2026

Open carry is prohibited in New Jersey — even with a Permit to Carry. A permit authorizes carry only "in a holster concealed on their person"; carrying a handgun openly in public is a fourth-degree crime whether or not you hold a permit. Brief incidental exposure while re-holstering, or from a shift of clothing, is a de minimis infraction. Carrying outside a holster is also a fourth-degree crime and grounds for permit revocation.

Official source: pub.njleg.state.nj.us →

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