Strategic Permit Guide
Best Non-Resident CCW Permits for Maximum Coverage in 2026
The top non-resident permits ranked by reciprocity, plus multi-permit strategies to legally carry in 35+ states—even if your home state has limited recognition.
The best non-resident CCW permits for most people are Florida (37 states, easy application), Utah (36 states, widely recognized), and Arizona (37 states, no training required). For maximum coverage, the Florida + Utah combination covers 38 states. If you live in a restrictive state like California or New York, a non-resident permit lets you carry legally when traveling to states that honor it—even though your home state doesn’t issue permits easily.
Why Get a Non-Resident CCW Permit?
A non-resident CCW permit is a concealed carry license issued by a state where you don’t live. These permits are valuable because they let you carry legally in states that recognize that permit—often giving you far more coverage than your home state permit alone.
Here’s why thousands of gun owners obtain non-resident permits every year:
Top Reasons to Get a Non-Resident Permit
🗺️ Expand Your Coverage
Your home state permit may only be recognized in 15-25 states. Adding a Florida or Utah permit can push that to 35+ states.
🏠 Live in a Restrictive State
If you live in California, New York, New Jersey, or another may-issue state, a non-resident permit lets you carry when traveling.
🚗 Frequent Traveler
Business travelers, truckers, and road-trippers benefit from permits that provide consistent coverage across multiple states.
🔄 Backup Permit
If your home state permit expires or is delayed during renewal, a non-resident permit from another state keeps you legal.
Non-resident permits don’t let you carry in your home state (unless your state specifically honors them). They’re designed for travel. For example, a California resident with a Florida non-resident permit can carry in Florida and 36 other states—but not in California itself.
Who Benefits Most from Non-Resident Permits?
| Situation | Recommended Permits | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Live in restrictive state (CA, NY, NJ, MD, HI) | Florida + Utah | 38 states |
| Cross-country truck driver | Florida + Arizona + Home state | 38+ states |
| East Coast business traveler | Virginia + New Hampshire | 32 states |
| Want coverage without training | Arizona | 37 states |
| Budget-conscious, want best value | Utah | 36 states |
Understanding CCW reciprocity agreements is essential before choosing which non-resident permit to pursue. Each state decides independently which other states’ permits it will honor.
Top 5 Non-Resident CCW Permits Ranked for 2026
We’ve analyzed reciprocity agreements, application requirements, costs, and processing times to rank the best non-resident permits available. Here’s our detailed breakdown:
Florida Non-Resident CCW License
37 StatesThe Florida CCW License is our top recommendation for most people. It offers the best combination of wide reciprocity, reasonable requirements, and long validity. Florida’s 7-year permit means fewer renewals and better long-term value.
Best for: Anyone seeking maximum coverage with reasonable requirements. The 7-year validity makes the cost-per-year very attractive.
Utah Concealed Firearm Permit
36 StatesThe Utah CFP is the most cost-effective non-resident permit available. At just $53.25, it offers nearly the same coverage as Florida. Utah training is widely available nationwide through certified instructors.
Best for: Budget-conscious applicants and those who want to pair with a Florida permit for maximum coverage (38 states combined).
Arizona CCW Permit
37 StatesThe Arizona CCW is the easiest permit to obtain because no training is required. If you want excellent coverage without attending a class, Arizona is your best choice.
Best for: Applicants who already have training or prefer to skip the classroom. Also great for those wanting fast, simple applications.
Virginia Non-Resident CHP
30 StatesThe Virginia CHP can be completed 100% remotely—online training and mailed application. If you can’t attend in-person classes or travel for fingerprinting, Virginia is ideal.
Best for: Remote applicants, people with scheduling constraints, or those who want everything done from home.
New Hampshire Non-Resident Pistol License
28 StatesThe New Hampshire license has the fastest processing time (14 days by law) and requires no training. It’s an excellent supplemental permit or quick solution while waiting for other permits.
Best for: Quick coverage needed, supplemental permit for specific states, or applicants who want minimal hassle.
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Complete Non-Resident Permit Comparison Table
Use this comprehensive comparison to decide which non-resident permit best fits your needs. We’ve included all key factors: reciprocity, costs, requirements, and processing times.
| State | States Honored | Total Cost | Training | Live Fire | Fingerprints | Processing | Valid | $/Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🥇 Florida | 37 | $150-$200* | Required | Optional | Yes | 50-90 days | 7 years | ~$25 |
| 🥈 Utah | 36 | $100-$150* | Utah-Certified | No | Yes | 60 days | 5 years | ~$25 |
| 🥉 Arizona | 37 | $60 | None | N/A | Yes | 60 days | 5 years | $12 |
| Virginia | 30 | $130-$180* | Online OK | No | No | 45 days | 5 years | ~$30 |
| New Hampshire | 28 | $100 | None | N/A | No | 14 days | 5 years | $20 |
| Maine | 29 | $60 | None | N/A | No | 30 days | 4 years | $15 |
| Pennsylvania | 27 | $20 | None | N/A | No | 45 days | 5 years | $4 |
*Total cost includes typical training fees. Arizona, New Hampshire, Maine, and Pennsylvania don’t require training.
- Best overall value: Florida ($25/year for 37 states)
- Cheapest permit: Pennsylvania ($20 total, 27 states)
- Fastest processing: New Hampshire (14 days by law)
- Most reciprocity (tie): Florida and Arizona (37 states each)
- Easiest application: Arizona (no training, no fingerprint card to mail)
Which States Are NOT Covered?
Even with the best non-resident permits, some states don’t recognize ANY out-of-state permits:
These states do NOT honor any out-of-state CCW permits. You must obtain their resident permit (if available) or cannot carry concealed:
*These states have limited reciprocity with very few states. Check current agreements.
Multi-Permit Strategies for Maximum Coverage
No single permit covers all 50 states, but strategic permit combinations can get you very close. Here are the most effective multi-permit strategies used by frequent travelers and security professionals.
Don’t over-buy permits. Most people only need 1-2 non-resident permits. Before getting a third, check exactly which additional states it would unlock. Often the answer is just 1-2 states you rarely visit. Florida alone covers the Southeast, Southwest, and most of the Midwest.
Strategy Breakdown: Florida + Utah Combination
The Florida + Utah combination is the gold standard for non-resident permit holders. Here’s why it works so well:
Florida Covers (37 States):
Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
Utah Adds (1 Additional State):
Minnesota honors Utah but not Florida.
Combined coverage: 38 states (Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming)
Learn more about which states honor your permits in our complete CCW reciprocity guide.
How to Apply for Each Non-Resident Permit
Each state has different application requirements and processes. Here’s a step-by-step guide for the top non-resident permits. For detailed application steps, see our complete CCW permit application guide.
FL Florida Non-Resident CCW Application
Requirements:
- 21 years or older
- Proof of firearms training
- Passport-style photo
- Fingerprints (electronic preferred)
- $102 application fee
Application Steps:
- Complete firearms training course
- Download application from FDACS website
- Get electronic fingerprints at authorized location
- Submit application with all documents
- Wait 50-90 days for processing
Apply: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services | Website: freshfromflorida.com
UT Utah Concealed Firearm Permit Application
Requirements:
- 21 years or older
- Utah-certified firearms course (no live fire required)
- Passport-style photo
- Fingerprint card
- $53.25 application fee
Application Steps:
- Find Utah-certified instructor (nationwide)
- Complete classroom training
- Get fingerprints on FBI card
- Mail application to Utah BCI
- Wait approximately 60 days
Apply: Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification | Website: bci.utah.gov
AZ Arizona CCW Permit Application
Requirements:
- 21 years or older
- NO training required
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or residency
- Fingerprint card
- $60 application fee
Application Steps:
- Download application from AZ DPS website
- Get fingerprints taken
- Gather ID documents
- Mail complete package to AZ DPS
- Wait approximately 60 days
Apply: Arizona Department of Public Safety | Website: azdps.gov
VA Virginia Non-Resident CHP Application
Requirements:
- 21 years or older
- Firearms safety course (online OK)
- No fingerprints required
- $100 application fee
Application Steps:
- Complete online safety course
- Print certificate of completion
- Complete application form
- Mail to Virginia State Police
- Wait approximately 45 days
Apply: Virginia State Police | Website: vsp.virginia.gov
NH New Hampshire Non-Resident Pistol License
Requirements:
- 18 years or older
- NO training required
- NO fingerprints required
- $100 application fee
Application Steps:
- Download application from NH DOS website
- Complete application form
- Include copy of driver’s license
- Mail to NH Department of Safety
- Receive permit in 14 days by law
Apply: New Hampshire Department of Safety | Website: nh.gov/safety
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Shop All Badges →Best Non-Resident Permits by Home State
The best non-resident permit for you depends on where you live and where you travel. Here are our recommendations based on your home state:
🚫 If You Live in a Restrictive State
California, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Maryland, Hawaii
If your home state makes it difficult or impossible to get a CCW permit, non-resident permits let you carry when traveling to other states. Your options:
| Recommendation | Permits | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Single Permit | Florida | 37 states | Covers most travel destinations |
| Maximum Coverage | Florida + Utah | 38 states | Adds Minnesota |
| No Training Option | Arizona | 37 states | Skip the classroom entirely |
Note: Non-resident permits do NOT allow you to carry in your home state. These are for travel only.
✅ If You Live in a Shall-Issue or Constitutional Carry State
Texas, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Arizona, Ohio, Pennsylvania, etc.
You likely already have a resident permit with decent reciprocity. Adding non-resident permits fills in the gaps:
| Your Home State | Recommended Addition | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | Utah or Florida | Adds Minnesota, fills small gaps |
| Florida (resident) | Utah | Adds Minnesota coverage |
| Georgia | Florida + Utah | Maximum 38-state coverage |
| Pennsylvania | Florida | Expands Southern state coverage |
| Ohio | Florida or Arizona | Adds Southern and Western states |
| Arizona (resident) | None needed | AZ resident permit has 37-state coverage |
Some states only honor resident permits. For example, Colorado honors a Florida resident permit but NOT a Florida non-resident permit. Always verify whether the state you’re visiting honors resident-only or all permits from your issuing state. Our reciprocity guide covers these distinctions.
Special Situations
🚛 Long-Haul Truckers
Best combo: Florida + Utah + Arizona + Home state. This covers nearly every state you’ll drive through. Focus on permits that cover your most common routes.
✈️ Business Travelers
Best combo: Florida + your home state permit. Consider adding Utah if you travel to Minnesota. Map your common destinations and get permits accordingly.
🏕️ RV/Road Trip Enthusiasts
Best combo: Florida + Utah covers most scenic routes. Add New Hampshire for fast backup permit. Plan routes to avoid no-reciprocity states when possible.
🔒 Security Professionals
Best combo: All four top permits (FL, UT, AZ, home state). Security work often requires travel on short notice. Maximum coverage reduces planning headaches.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Non-Resident Permits
Non-resident permits come with unique challenges. Avoid these common pitfalls that trip up even experienced gun owners:
❌ Mistake #1: Assuming Your Permit Works Everywhere
The problem: Reciprocity is NOT automatic. Just because you have a permit from one state doesn’t mean other states will honor it.
✓ Do this instead: Always verify reciprocity BEFORE traveling. Use official state websites or the USCCA’s reciprocity map. Laws change—check every trip.
❌ Mistake #2: Not Knowing Resident vs. Non-Resident Rules
The problem: Some states honor resident permits from State X but NOT non-resident permits from State X. This catches many travelers off guard.
✓ Do this instead: When checking reciprocity, specifically verify if the destination state honors “all” permits or only “resident” permits from your issuing state.
❌ Mistake #3: Ignoring Destination State’s Laws
The problem: Even with valid reciprocity, you must follow the destination state’s carry laws—not your permit state’s laws. Prohibited places, magazine limits, and carry methods vary widely.
✓ Do this instead: Research every state you’ll enter. Know their prohibited places, capacity limits, and whether they allow open or concealed carry only.
❌ Mistake #4: Letting Permits Expire
The problem: Managing multiple permits means multiple expiration dates. An expired permit is no permit at all—and carrying with one is illegal.
✓ Do this instead: Set calendar reminders 90 days before each permit expires. Most states allow early renewal. Start the process with plenty of time.
❌ Mistake #5: Not Carrying Your Permit
The problem: Many states require you to physically carry your permit and present it to law enforcement upon request. “I have one at home” won’t help.
✓ Do this instead: Always carry ALL relevant permits. Some states require you to notify officers you’re armed. Know the rules before you need them.
❌ Mistake #6: Getting More Permits Than Necessary
The problem: Some people collect permits without checking which states they actually add. A third or fourth permit might only add 1-2 states you never visit.
✓ Do this instead: Start with Florida alone (37 states). Add Utah only if you need Minnesota. Map your actual travel patterns before adding more permits.
Address changes matter. If you move to a different state, you may no longer be eligible to hold certain non-resident permits, or your residency change may affect reciprocity. Some states (like Utah) require you to surrender your non-resident permit if you become a resident. Always update your permits when moving.
Quick Reference: State Law Differences
These are the most commonly misunderstood differences between states that trip up permit holders:
| Law Type | Varies How | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Duty to Inform | Must you tell police you’re armed? | TX, OH: Yes immediately | FL, AZ: Only if asked |
| Magazine Limits | Maximum round capacity | CO: 15 rds | Most states: No limit |
| Vehicle Carry | Where in car? Loaded? | Rules vary widely state to state |
| Prohibited Places | Where you can’t carry | Schools, bars, govt buildings—rules differ |
| Signage Force | Are “no guns” signs legally binding? | TX: 30.06/30.07 signs = law | Many states: No legal force |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Resident CCW Permits
What is a non-resident CCW permit?
A non-resident CCW permit is a concealed carry license issued by a state where you do NOT live. These permits allow you to legally carry concealed firearms in states that recognize that permit through reciprocity agreements. They’re designed for travelers, not for carrying in your home state.
Can I carry in my home state with a non-resident permit?
Generally, no. Most states do not allow residents to carry using an out-of-state permit. For example, if you live in California and have a Florida non-resident permit, you cannot carry in California—only in the 37 states that honor the Florida permit. You would need a California permit (if available) to carry in your home state.
Which non-resident permit has the most reciprocity?
As of 2026, Florida and Arizona are tied for the most reciprocity at 37 states each. Utah follows closely at 36 states. The Florida + Utah combination provides 38-state coverage (adds Minnesota, which honors Utah but not Florida).
Do I need training to get a non-resident permit?
It depends on the state. Arizona, New Hampshire, Maine, and Pennsylvania require NO training for non-resident permits. Florida accepts any firearms safety course. Utah requires a Utah-certified course (available nationwide). Virginia accepts online courses—no live fire required.
How long does it take to get a non-resident CCW permit?
Processing times vary significantly: New Hampshire is fastest at 14 days by law. Virginia takes about 45 days. Utah and Arizona average 60 days. Florida takes 50-90 days. Plan ahead and apply well before you need the permit.
Can I apply for multiple non-resident permits?
Yes, you can hold multiple non-resident permits simultaneously. Many serious travelers hold 2-3 permits to maximize coverage. The most popular combination is Florida + Utah (38 states combined). However, before getting additional permits, verify exactly which states they add—often a third permit only adds 1-2 states.
What happens if I move to a different state?
Address changes can affect your permits. Some states (like Utah) require you to surrender your non-resident permit if you become a resident of that state—you’d then apply for a resident permit. Other states may require you to update your address. Always notify issuing states of address changes and check how your move affects reciprocity.
Why won’t California, New York, or New Jersey honor my permit?
These states have chosen not to recognize ANY out-of-state CCW permits. They have restrictive “may-issue” or strict permit requirements and don’t participate in reciprocity agreements. The only way to legally carry concealed in these states is to obtain their own resident permit (which can be very difficult or impossible depending on the jurisdiction).
- Top 3 permits: Florida (37 states, 7-year validity), Utah (36 states, budget-friendly), Arizona (37 states, no training)
- Best single permit: Florida offers the best balance of coverage, cost, and convenience for most people
- Best combination: Florida + Utah covers 38 states—the maximum achievable with non-resident permits
- No training option: Arizona, New Hampshire, Maine, and Pennsylvania don’t require any training
- All-remote option: Virginia allows online training and mailed applications—no in-person requirements
- No reciprocity states: CA, NY, NJ, MA, MD, HI, CT, RI don’t honor any out-of-state permits
- Always verify: Check reciprocity before every trip—laws change frequently
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