Is Delaware a Constitutional Carry State?

What This Means for You

Delaware maintains a permit-based concealed carry system, which means you cannot carry concealed without proper licensing. Open carry is generally legal in Delaware without a permit, but concealed carry requires going through the state's permit application process. This distinction is important for anyone planning to carry firearms they build or own in Delaware.

The Detail

Delaware follows a shall-issue concealed carry permit system rather than constitutional carry. The state requires you to obtain a concealed deadly weapons license through your county courthouse if you want to carry a concealed handgun. The application process typically involves background checks, fingerprinting, and demonstrating competency with firearms.

Open carry is generally permitted in Delaware without a license for those legally allowed to possess firearms, though local ordinances may restrict this in certain areas. Many gun owners prefer concealed carry for practical and tactical reasons, making the permit requirement relevant for most carriers.

Delaware's carry laws apply equally to factory firearms and home-built guns, assuming the firearms themselves are legal under state and federal law. If you build a pistol or rifle that you intend to carry, the same permitting requirements apply as they would for any commercially manufactured firearm.

The state does have reciprocity agreements with certain other states, but you should verify current reciprocity status with official Delaware sources before carrying across state lines. Carry laws can change, and what applies today might not apply tomorrow.

Build Impact

Whether you build your carry gun or buy it makes no difference under Delaware's carry laws. You still need that concealed carry permit if you plan to carry concealed, regardless of whether you built a custom 1911 or bought one off the shelf.