Disclaimer: this is not an exhaustive list of what you need to know about Connecticut firearms law as a gunowner, but here are some of the most pertinent items to get you started or up to date. 

1. Connecticut requires a permit to purchase and carry firearms. The “Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers” certifies CT gunowners for the purchase of all firearm types, ammunition, and lawful concealed carry of handguns. The process requires passing a state-certified course with a live fire test, often advertised as a “CT pistol permit course” by your local trainer/range, a paper application at the local level, and finally issuance at the state level. Read this article by the DESPP Special Licensing and Firearms Unit (SLFU) for full details about permitting, renewals, disqualifiers, and more.

• A right delayed is a right denied: as of 2026, local issuing authorities (police or first selectman’s office usually) have 8 weeks to process your application, or must issue a $70 local processing fee refund. 
• After 12 weeks, applicants may go straight to SLFU for processing. 
• Local issuing authorities may not ask for more than what the state requires (ex. at this moment, no interviews or personal/work references are required). 

2. 2. Under CGS § 29-37i Connecticut has “safe storage” requirements for all firearms owners, regardless if you live alone, without children or unauthorized individuals.

3. Transportation of firearms in vehicles within Connecticut is governed by CGS § 29-38

• Interstate travel with firearms is protected under the Firearms Owners Protection Act (F.O.P.A.) (18 U.S.C. § 926A ). Connecticut explicitly recognized F.O.P.A. in CGS § 29-38d.
• Before flying with firearms consult both 49 CFR 175.10 (a)(8) and your airline’s rules as they may be more stringent than federal regulations.

4. Concealed carry of firearms is authorized with the possession of a CT Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers. “Open carry” as defined by CGS § 29-35 is illegal unless you receive permission from the owner of the property you are carrying on.

More on the SLFU homepage: DESPP Special Licensing and Firearms Unit Homepage