Back
IOWA · FIREARMS

Firearms

Carrying across state lines?The free LawLert iPhone app alerts you at each state line with whether that state lists your permit as recognized. No account.Get the app

Permitted: No permit is needed to carry a handgun in Iowa at age 18 or older, for residents and visitors alike.

Permitted
Summary

No permit is needed to carry a handgun in Iowa at age 18 or older, for residents and visitors alike. You may carry openly or concealed unless Iowa law bars you from carrying, for example felons, people addicted to alcohol, and people with certain serious or aggravated misdemeanor convictions in the past 3 years. Under 18, going armed with a concealed weapon is a serious misdemeanor. A permit is optional.

Source: legis.iowa.gov → · Updated October 12, 2026

Don't get caught off guardCross into a state where this law is different and the free iPhone app tells you what changed, even with the app closed. It also alerts you when a law you track changes where you live. No account.Get the free app
LawLert is an independent app, not affiliated with any government — informational only, not legal advice. Verify with a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.