New York imposes stringent gun laws in an effort to keep residents and visitors safe from harm. Whether or not you are legally allowed to carry a concealed firearm in New York depends on your certification and licensing. Being in compliance with state and local laws is imperative to protect yourself and your rights. To learn more about NY’s firearm laws and secure skilled assistance, contact a New City gun crime lawyer today.
If you are a resident of New York, you cannot legally carry a concealed firearm unless you are in possession of a valid New York Pistol License (NYPL). There are two main types of licenses for a pistol or revolver, called the “have and possess” and the “have and carry concealed.” You must be in possession of a “have and carry concealed” license, commonly known as a concealed carry license.
There are many eligibility requirements to be aware of when pursuing a concealed carry license in New York. Some of the most important criteria include that you are at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen or legal resident, of good moral character, have not been convicted of a felony or serious offense, and are not in a mental or physical condition that would make it unsafe for you to be in possession of a firearm.
There are also extensive training requirements that you must meet before being issued a concealed carry permit in New York, including 16 hours of classroom training, two hours on a live range, and passing a written test.
It is important to note that even with a valid permit, there are restrictions on where you can carry your weapon, known as “sensitive locations.” Some sensitive locations where the carrying of weapons is prohibited include the following.
The above and more are sensitive locations where you are not permitted to carry a weapon. Understanding these restrictions is crucial to ensure you are complying with state law.
You must also be informed about the recertification and renewal process for a concealed carry license. Licenses issued by NYC, Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk counties expire and must be renewed every 3 years. However, licenses issued outside of these areas do not expire. Instead, they must be recertified every 3 years.
If you are caught in violation of concealed carry laws in New York, you could be charged with a Class E, D, C, or B felony, depending on the specific circumstances of the situation. These convictions can result in significant fines and imprisonment which can bring about life-altering repercussions.
To learn more about your rights and responsibilities and obtain skilled legal representation, reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney today.
© 2025 The Law Office of Kevin T. Conway. All rights reserved.
