Getting an Ohio concealed handgun license

Getting an Ohio handgun license

An Ohio concealed handgun license (CHL) remains available and can matter when traveling or using an exception that requires an actual license.

1. Choose the sheriff: Ohio residents apply in their county or an adjacent county. Nonresidents employed in Ohio apply in the employment county or an adjacent county.
2. Document competency: the standard course requires eight hours, including at least two hours of in-person range and live-fire training, plus a competency exam. Alternative qualifying credentials exist.
3. Prepare the application: bring the required recent photo, competency evidence, reading certification, fingerprints and fee. Read the Attorney General's manual. Check the sheriff's appointment process.
4. Fees and timing: initial fee $67; an FBI check adds actual cost for newer Ohio residents and nonresidents. Statutory fee waivers apply to specified military and retired officers. The normal issuance deadline is 45 days after a complete application, subject to statutory exceptions.

The official application and sheriff's current instructions control the required documents.

Sources: ORC 2923.125 · Ohio Attorney General: Concealed Carry.
Reviewed 2026-10-30.

Renewals, address changes & lost licenses

A standard CHL lasts five years. Ohio provides a 30-day expiration grace period; verify another state's treatment before traveling. Report a residence-address change to the issuing sheriff within 45 days.

Renewal generally costs $50 plus any applicable FBI check. Reread the AG manual; a new competency certification is generally not required. A lost or destroyed license can be replaced through the issuing sheriff for $15 and an affidavit. Different rules apply after moving or ending Ohio employment.

Sources: ORC 2923.125 · ORC 2923.126.
Reviewed 2026-10-30.