Permit required: No. Idaho is a permitless constitutional carry state for most lawful adults.
Minimum age: Generally18+ for permitless concealed carry (with some nuances for licensing).
Duty to inform:No general legal duty to proactively inform law enforcement.
Where you can/can’t carry: Allowed in most public places unless specifically prohibited (e.g., schools, courthouses, jails/juvenile detention, secure government areas).
Out-of-state permits: Idaho recognizes all other states’ valid carry permits; some states only honor Idaho’s Enhanced CWL.
Idaho uses astatewide system. Sheriffs issue concealed weapons licenses (CWL) andEnhanced CWLs under Idaho Code, and the state operates as a shall-issue for those who apply and qualify.However, a license isnot required for most people who can legally possess a firearm: Idaho haspermitless concealed carry for eligible adults.
Residents and visitors18 or older who are not otherwise disqualified may generally carry concealed without a permit, including in vehicles. An optional CWL can still be useful for travel and reciprocity; Idaho offers a standard CWL and anEnhanced CWL that is more widely honored by other states.
Typical restrictions focus onlocation-based bans (schools, courthouses, detention facilities, certain campus areas, and federal secure buildings). Private businesses may ask you to leave or post policies, so it’s smart to check signage and house rules. When transporting or staying in shared spaces, best practice is to keep firearmsunloaded and secured when not on your person; a discreet locked case and, if you want extra privacy for valuables/electronics, aFaraday-protected SLNT bag can help with safe, low-profile storage during travel.