COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio Attorney General’s Office has released its annual report on concealed handgun licenses for 2024, providing insight into how permit issuance and renewal patterns are evolving in the wake of Ohio’s constitutional carry law, which went into effect in June 2022.
Decline in New Permits, But Renewals Remain Strong
Ohio’s move to constitutional carry allows law-abiding citizens to carry concealed handguns without a permit. As anticipated, the number of new concealed carry permits issued by Ohio’s 88 county sheriffs declined in 2024, totaling 14,440—a 7.3% decrease from 2023. However, permit renewals remained significant, with 59,122 licenses renewed over the year, underscoring that many Ohioans continue to see value in maintaining an official permit.
This continued interest in permit renewals reflects a practical reality for gun owners who travel across state lines. While constitutional carry covers residents within Ohio, only a valid Ohio concealed handgun license ensures reciprocity with other states—allowing permit holders to legally carry in 39 other jurisdictions that recognize Ohio’s permit.
Benefits of Obtaining or Renewing a Permit
Beyond interstate travel considerations, obtaining an Ohio concealed carry permit also comes with mandated training requirements that help ensure responsible gun ownership. To receive a permit, applicants must complete eight hours of education, including two hours of live-fire range training under the supervision of a certified instructor. This training covers essential topics such as firearms safety, use of deadly force laws, and proper carry practices.
County-by-County Trends
The counties issuing the highest number of new permits in 2024 were:
- Franklin County: 1,154 permits
- Lake County: 890 permits
- Hamilton County: 700 permits
- Montgomery County: 467 permits
- Summit County: 461 permits
Similarly, Franklin County led the state in renewals, processing nearly 3,500 renewals, followed by Lake County with just over 3,000 renewals.
Permit Suspensions and Revocations
In 2024, there were 1,439 license suspensions and 339 revocations statewide. Suspensions are typically issued when a license holder is arrested or charged with a disqualifying offense, or becomes subject to a protection order. Permanent revocations occur when a license holder is convicted of a disqualifying crime, moves out of state, or becomes otherwise ineligible under Ohio law.
A Shifting Concealed Carry Landscape
Ohio’s experience offers an instructive case study for other states considering constitutional carry laws. While the number of new permits has fallen sharply from pre-2022 levels, the sustained demand for renewals highlights the importance of reciprocity for traveling gun owners. For many Ohioans, holding an active permit remains a valuable tool for ensuring they can legally carry outside state borders.
Training Matters—Regardless of Permit Status
Whether choosing to carry under constitutional carry or maintaining a concealed handgun license, responsible gun owners should prioritize regular training. Handling a firearm in high-stress situations requires both technical proficiency and sound judgment, both of which are sharpened through quality instruction and ongoing practice. Constitutional carry grants legal authority to carry, but it does not replace the need for skill development and legal knowledge.
