Is Open Carry Legal in Georgia?
Woody's answers are based on published federal and state law. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
Yes, open carry is legal in Georgia for adults 18 and older with a valid Georgia Weapons Carry License. You can openly carry handguns and long guns in most public places where carry is permitted.
What This Means for You
For builders completing pistol or rifle projects, Georgia's open carry laws mean your finished firearms can be carried openly once you obtain the proper license. This affects how you might prioritize certain build features like holster compatibility or overall length considerations for practical carry.
The Detail
Georgia law permits open carry of both handguns and long guns for individuals 18 and older who possess a valid Georgia Weapons Carry License. The state requires this license for carrying handguns openly, though long guns generally have fewer restrictions. You need to be 21 or older to obtain a license for handgun carry, but 18-20 year olds can carry long guns openly in most circumstances.
The same location restrictions that apply to concealed carry also apply to open carry. Places like government buildings, schools, churches, bars, and certain other locations remain off-limits regardless of how you carry. Private property owners can also prohibit carry on their premises. Georgia follows a "shall issue" policy for carry licenses, meaning authorities must issue permits to qualified applicants who meet the legal requirements.
Open carry in Georgia does not require any specific training or proficiency demonstration beyond what's needed for the basic carry license. However, you should verify current requirements with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation or your local probate court, as licensing procedures can change. Some counties may have additional local ordinances that affect where open carry is permitted.
Keep in mind that while open carry is legal, it can draw attention from law enforcement and the public. You should be prepared to present your license if requested by officers during any interaction. The firearm must be carried in a manner that doesn't constitute brandishing or threatening behavior under Georgia law.
Build Impact
If you're planning to open carry your completed build, consider holster compatibility during the design phase, especially for pistol builds. Long gun builds intended for open carry should account for overall handling and transport considerations in public spaces.