Georgia has long been one of the most firearm-friendly states in the Southeast. In 2022, Governor Kemp signed House Bill 218, making Georgia a permitless carry state. That means law-abiding Georgian adults can now carry a firearm — openly or concealed — without a government-issued license. Yet the Georgia Weapons Carry License (GWL) remains one of the most practical documents a gun owner in the state can hold. Here's why, and how to get one.
What Is the Georgia Weapons Carry License?
The Georgia Weapons Carry License (GWL), formerly known as the Georgia Firearms License (GFL), is issued by the probate court of the county where you reside. It's the official credential that proves you've passed a background check and are authorized to carry a weapon in Georgia and, crucially, in dozens of other states.
Unlike some states that issue separate licenses for handguns only, Georgia's GWL covers a notably broad range of weapons: pistols, revolvers, and long guns (rifles and shotguns). This makes it one of the more comprehensive carry licenses in the country.
Permitless Carry Is Real — So Why Get the GWL?
HB 218 passed in April 2022 and took effect immediately. Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 16-11-126), anyone 21 or older who is not prohibited from possessing a firearm may carry a loaded handgun in public without a license. So the permit is optional — but not useless.
Here's why tens of thousands of Georgians continue to apply for the GWL each year:
Reciprocity across 30+ states. Georgia permitless carry applies only inside Georgia. The GWL is recognized in more than 30 other states, including Florida, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and most of the South. If you drive through Alabama, the Carolinas, or head to a hunting trip in another state, you need the license.
Federal property access. Certain federal facilities and lands follow different rules. A state-issued license can sometimes clarify your status.
Streamlined firearm purchases. GWL holders may use the license in lieu of the federal NICS background check when purchasing from a licensed dealer in Georgia.
Private range and course requirements. Some ranges and training facilities require participants to hold a valid carry license for certain classes.
Personal responsibility. Knowing Georgia's use-of-force laws, where you can and can't carry, and how to handle a firearm safely is valuable regardless of legal requirements.
Find Georgia weapons carry training courses on TrainingOS.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a Georgia GWL you must:
- Be 21 or older (18+ if active-duty military)
- Be a Georgia resident (living in the county where you apply)
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
- Have no felony conviction
- Have no conviction for certain misdemeanors (family violence, stalking, etc.)
- Not be under a restraining or protective order
- Not have been involuntarily committed to a mental institution
- Not be a drug addict or habitual drunkard
- Not be prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law
Note: Georgia does not require a training course to obtain the GWL. There is no mandatory classroom or range qualification. However, voluntary training is strongly recommended — knowing the law and practicing fundamental skills makes you a safer and more confident carrier. Browse CCW courses on TrainingOS to find options near you.
The Application Process (Step by Step)
Step 1 — Go to your county probate court. Georgia GWL applications are handled by the probate court of the county where you reside — not the police department or state agency. Locate your county's probate court website to check their specific process.
Step 2 — Complete the application form. The application asks about your eligibility, residence, and background. You'll sign it under oath.
Step 3 — Get fingerprinted. Fingerprints are taken at the probate court or at a designated law enforcement location. The prints are submitted to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and the FBI for a background check.
Step 4 — Provide a passport-style photo. Many counties require a recent photo to accompany the application.
Step 5 — Pay the fee. The Georgia GWL costs $75 for a new application. This is one of the most affordable carry licenses in the nation.
Step 6 — Receive your license. Georgia law requires the probate court to issue or deny your GWL within 30 days of receiving your complete application. Most counties meet this timeline. The license is valid for 5 years.
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Voluntary training course (recommended) | $75–$150 |
| Fingerprinting | $10–$20 |
| State application fee | $75 |
| Total | ~$160–$245 |
Where You Cannot Carry in Georgia
Even with a GWL — or under permitless carry — Georgia law restricts carry in certain locations:
- Government buildings used for court proceedings
- Polling places on election days
- State mental health facilities
- Prisons and jails
- Places of worship (unless the congregation expressly permits it)
- Nuclear power facilities
- Inside the secured area of airports
- Any school safety zone (K-12) unless otherwise authorized
Bars and restaurants that serve alcohol are generally open to carry in Georgia, as long as you are not consuming alcohol while carrying.
Georgia GWL Reciprocity
The Georgia GWL is honored in more than 30 states. It is recognized in Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
States that do not recognize Georgia's GWL include California, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Massachusetts, Illinois, Connecticut, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington.
Renewal
Your Georgia GWL is valid for 5 years. Renewal is handled through the same probate court where you originally applied. The renewal fee is $30 and does not require repeat fingerprinting or training.
The Georgia GWL is one of the most affordable and accessible carry licenses in the country. Getting one takes about 30 days and costs less than $100 out-of-pocket. Add a voluntary training course, and you'll be both legally authorized and genuinely prepared.
Find Georgia firearms training on TrainingOS and book with a certified instructor near you. Or browse CCW and self-defense courses by topic to see what's available in your area.
Related: State Guides
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