Concealed carry means that a person is carrying a hidden weapon, typically a gun. In the United States, the issue of whether it is legal to have this sort of concealed weapon is left up to each state. The only state that does not currently allow its residents to carry concealed weapons legally is Illinois.Within the other states, restrictions and laws pertaining to concealed carrying vary
. somewhat. In most cases, the person who wishes to have the weapon must obtain a permit first. Requirements for getting a permit typically include meeting a minimum age, paying a fee and passing a background check. The four states that do not require their residents to obtain concealed-carry permits are Wyoming, Arizona, Vermont and Alaska. A permit that is issued to residents of a particular state is often honored by many of the other states. A reciprocity chart posted at http://www.handgunlaw.us/documents/USReciprocity.pdf gives more details about this situation. In most states, non-residents who wish to carry concealed weapons must apply for permits within those states. They are generally required to meet certain requirements that include completing a firearm-safety course, residing within the United States legally and providing fingerprints.Although Hawaii allows concealed carry with a permit, this state's restrictions mean that relatively few people qualify. Only individuals who are wearing uniforms while on duty are allowed to possess concealed weapons. Security guards, military personnel and police officers are among the limited groups of people who qualify. In addition, Hawaii does not recognize permits that are issued by other states.Two more states that closely regulate the issuing of permits for concealed carry are New Jersey and Maryland. In New Jersey, the person wanting the permit must apply to the police chief in that area. In practice, only people who work in the security field and those who can demonstrate a pressing self-defense need for having a firearm are granted permits. The restrictions in Maryland are similar.More reference links: http://www.handgunlaw.us/ http://www.concealcarry.org/
