State Laws · RI
Rhode Island Gun Laws
Effective as of June 21, 2022 (Magazine ban and assault weapons restrictions). Laws change — you should check for updates or consult with a licensed firearms trainer in your state before acting on this information.
Concealed Carry
Rhode Island has a dual-track licensing system. A License to Carry Concealed Weapons can be issued by the local police chief or by the Attorney General. Local police chief issuance is effectively may-issue; the AG track is shall-issue for qualified applicants. Applicants must complete a firearms safety course, be at least 21, and pass a background check.
Key statute: R.I.G.L. § 11-47-11 — license to carry concealed pistol or revolver (AG issuance). § 11-47-18 — license to carry concealed weapons (local chief issuance).
Open Carry
The legality of open carry in Rhode Island is ambiguous. There is no statute expressly prohibiting open carry with a valid license, but the practical interpretation and enforcement vary. Most legal guidance recommends obtaining a concealed carry license.
Who Cannot Carry
Prohibited persons include: convicted felons, persons convicted of a crime of violence, persons addicted to controlled substances or habitual drunkards, persons who are mentally incompetent, persons under 21, and persons subject to domestic violence restraining orders.
Prohibited Locations
Rhode Island prohibits carry in: schools and school grounds, state buildings, courthouses, and any location with posted prohibition.
Purchase Requirements
Rhode Island requires a safety course or existing license for handgun purchases. A mandatory seven-day waiting period applies to all handgun purchases. All FFL sales require a background check through the state system. Rhode Island enacted a magazine capacity limit of 10 rounds and restrictions on assault weapons in 2022. Private long gun sales do not require a background check.
Legal disclaimer
This summary is for informational purposes only. Firearms laws change frequently. Always verify current statutes and consult a qualified attorney before making legal decisions.
Sources & official resources
Federal firearms laws
ATF.gov — Laws: Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives →Rhode Island statutes
Rhode Island Legislature →This link goes to Rhode Island's legislative website. To find specific firearms statutes, search for terms like "concealed carry," "firearms," or "weapons permit" in the site's search function.