Ohio joined the growing list of permitless carry states in June 2022 when Governor DeWine signed Senate Bill 215 into law. Since then, Ohio residents who are 21 or older and legally eligible to possess a firearm can carry a concealed handgun without any license or permit. But here's the thing: thousands of Ohioans are still pursuing the Concealed Handgun License (CHL) every year — and there are good reasons why.
Ohio Permitless Carry vs. the CHL: What's the Difference?
Under SB 215, you no longer need a license to carry a concealed handgun in Ohio. However, "permitless carry" comes with limitations that the Ohio CHL eliminates.
Why the Ohio CHL still makes sense:
Reciprocity with other states. This is the biggest reason. Ohio permitless carry applies only within Ohio. The Ohio CHL is recognized in more than 33 states, including Florida, Texas, Virginia, and most of the Southeast and Midwest. If you ever carry outside Ohio, you need the license.
Faster firearm purchases. Ohio CHL holders are exempt from the federal NICS (National Instant Criminal Background Check System) background check at licensed dealers. This can cut waiting time significantly at busy gun stores.
Legal clarity in traffic stops. Under Ohio law, if you're carrying a firearm during a traffic stop, you're required to inform the officer if you have a CHL. The interaction tends to go more smoothly when you can hand over a license alongside your driver's license.
Building your record as a responsible gun owner. Training matters. Even when it's not legally required, demonstrating that you sought out formal instruction speaks for itself.
Ohio CHL Training Requirement
To obtain an Ohio Concealed Handgun License, you must complete an approved 8-hour firearms safety education program. The course must be taught by a certified instructor and include:
- Ohio laws on carrying and use of force
- Safe storage and handling of firearms
- Handgun operation and mechanics
- Live-fire range qualification
The live-fire component is required — you must demonstrate basic shooting proficiency on the range before your instructor can issue a certificate of completion. Most applicants find the qualification straightforward.
Find Ohio CCW training near you on TrainingOS to book with a certified instructor.
Eligibility Requirements
You must meet all of the following to apply for an Ohio CHL:
- Age 21 or older (18+ for active-duty or honorably discharged military)
- U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
- Ohio resident (county of residence application) OR non-resident qualifying through specific provisions
- No felony convictions
- No domestic violence misdemeanor convictions
- Not under indictment for a felony
- No drug addiction or chronic alcoholism
- Not currently adjudicated as mentally ill or dangerous
- Not subject to a protection order
The Application Process (Step by Step)
Step 1 — Complete your 8-hour training course. Attend an Ohio-approved firearms safety course and receive your certificate of completion.
Step 2 — Locate your county sheriff's office. Ohio CHL applications are submitted to the sheriff of the county where you reside. Each county sheriff may have a slightly different submission process — some accept walk-ins, others require appointments.
Step 3 — Complete the application form. The Ohio CHL application (form available through your county sheriff) asks about your eligibility, residence, and training.
Step 4 — Submit fingerprints. Fingerprinting is completed at the sheriff's office or through an approved vendor. Ohio conducts a BCI (Bureau of Criminal Identification) and FBI background check.
Step 5 — Pay the fee. The Ohio CHL fee is $67 for new applicants. Some counties may charge a small additional administrative fee. Military veterans may be eligible for a waived or reduced fee.
Step 6 — Wait for processing. Ohio law requires the sheriff to issue or deny your license within 45 days of receiving a complete application. Many applicants receive their license in 30–40 days.
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 8-hour training course | $75–$150 |
| Fingerprinting | $10–$25 |
| State/sheriff fee | $67 |
| Total | ~$150–$240 |
The Ohio CHL is valid for 5 years. Renewal costs $50 and requires a shorter refresher training course (4 hours).
Carrying Rules Under Ohio Law
With or without a CHL, there are places where concealed carry is prohibited in Ohio:
- Police stations and sheriff's offices
- State correctional facilities
- Airport secured areas
- Courthouses and court facilities
- Premises of licensed liquor establishments (unless the licensee permits it)
- School safety zones (unless otherwise authorized)
- Any place of worship (unless the religious organization expressly permits it)
- Premises of a licensed child care facility
- Any premises where the owner has posted a conspicuous sign prohibiting firearms
If you're carrying without a CHL under permitless carry rules, you are still required to inform a law enforcement officer that you are carrying if they ask.
Ohio CHL Reciprocity
Ohio's Concealed Handgun License is recognized by approximately 33 states. States that honor it include Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
States that do NOT honor the Ohio CHL include California, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Massachusetts, Illinois, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington.
Renewal
Ohio CHL holders must renew every 5 years. The renewal process requires:
- A 4-hour refresher training course (shorter than the initial 8-hour requirement)
- Completed renewal application submitted to your county sheriff
- $50 renewal fee
Start the renewal process at least 90 days before your license expires to avoid any lapse.
Even if you can legally carry without a license under Ohio's permitless carry law, the formal training and CHL process teaches you things that matter: when you can legally use force, how to store your firearm safely, and how to handle encounters with law enforcement. That knowledge is worth the investment.
Find Ohio CCW training on TrainingOS and book your 8-hour course with a certified instructor near you. You can also browse all CCW courses by topic to compare options in your area.
Related: State Guides
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