Bureau of Criminal Identification
Concealed Firearm Permit Frequently Asked Questions
Will Utah honor concealed firearm permits from other states?
As a permit holder, exactly where can I carry or not carry a handgun?
May I carry my loaded and concealed firearm into a bar or other drinking establishment?
If I feel someone MAY be a threat to me, can I show them that I have a gun to scare them off?
Do I have to be a Utah resident in order to obtain a Utah Concealed Firearms Permit?
If I get stopped by a police officer, do I, as a permit holder, have to tell the officer that I have a gun in my possession?
Although there is no legal requirement to identify yourself to a law enforcement officer, it is recommended to do so.
If an officer finds or sees a gun on your person during their contact with you, and you have not identified yourself as a permit holder in legal possession of a firearm, the officer must assume you are carrying the gun illegally and will take defensive action. For the safety of all involved, it is better to immediately identify yourself to the officer as a permit holder in possession of a handgun. This action gives the officer some assurance they are most likely dealing with a law abiding citizen.
Is there any way that I can check to see if my criminal history will prevent me from obtaining a concealed firearm permit BEFORE I go through the whole process of applying?
Yes. You can come into our office or call by phone and ask to speak with one of the investigators. If you explain to the investigator what type of problem you have had, he can give you a good idea whether you qualify for a concealed firearm permit or not.
Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification
3888 West 5400 South
Salt Lake City, Utah 84118
(801) 957-8620
The concealed firearm permit only exempts the permit holder from three laws: carrying a concealed and loaded firearm in a vehicle; carrying a concealed firearm on your person and; carrying a loaded and concealed firearm on or about school property. All other state and federal laws still apply. Such as, you may not carry a firearm in secured areas of an airport and you may not carry a firearm in secure federal buildings. These areas should always be posted. But please be aware of these restrictions in case they are not posted.
What about private businesses? Can they post signs prohibiting someone from carrying a gun into their business even though the person has a concealed firearms permit?
Naturally, private property owners may apply whatever restrictions they want. Whether or not these restrictions violate one's constitutional rights is for the civil courts to decide. But the only statutory restrictions on a permit holder are secured areas such as airports and federal buildings.
There is nothing in state statute that prohibits permit holders from being in a bar with a concealed firearm. However, it is illegal to be intoxicated and in possession of a firearm. The level of intoxication that is considered illegal is the same standard as when driving a car. (.08 B.A.C.)
Any action you take with a gun must be in direct self-defense; otherwise, it is considered threatening with a dangerous weapon and you will be labeled as the aggressor. You may be criminally charged and you will most likely have your permit to carry a concealed firearm revoked. Carrying a firearm is very serious business. There is no room for mistakes. If you pull a firearm on someone or even display the weapon, then it must be in self defense or it is not justified.
No. Any U.S. citizen may obtain a Utah concealed firearm permit, providing they meet the minimum qualifications. View the minimum qualifications.
If I have a Utah Concealed Firearms Permit, do I have to go through the standard "Brady Bill Background Check" when I purchase a firearm?
A valid Utah concealed firearm permit may be used to waive the BCI background check and the corresponding fees. However, the dealer is still required to call BCI to confirm the validity of the concealed firearm permit.