(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost today released the state’s annual concealed carry report for 2024, revealing that a total of 73,552 concealed handgun licenses were issued across the state.
The report, based on statistics submitted by county sheriffs, indicates that 14,440 new concealed carry permits were granted, while 59,112 permits were renewed. Ohio law requires permit holders to renew their licenses every five years.
Notably, Ohio’s concealed carry laws underwent significant changes in June 2022, when the state implemented “constitutional carry,” or “permitless carry,” allowing eligible residents to carry concealed handguns without a permit. Despite this change, the state’s permit system remains intact for those who wish to obtain a license.
County sheriffs are responsible for issuing, renewing, suspending, and revoking concealed carry permits. Each sheriff submits quarterly statistics to the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission, which is part of the Attorney General’s Office. Ohio first introduced concealed carry licenses in 2004.
In Pickaway County, 65 new permits were issued in 2024, with 357 renewals. The county also recorded 10 suspensions, 3 revocations, and 2 denials. Ross County issued only 22 New licenses renewed 312 and denied 1.
The “permitless carry” law allows adults 21 and older, who are legally permitted to own firearms, to carry concealed weapons without a license. However, several restrictions still apply, including prohibitions on carrying in school safety zones and rules about carrying firearms in places where alcohol is sold—concealed carry is only permitted in such places if the carrier does not consume alcohol.
Though Ohioans can now carry concealed weapons without a permit, many still opt to obtain a concealed carry permit. This choice provides the benefit of reciprocity, allowing permit holders to carry concealed weapons in other states that recognize Ohio permits. Additionally, obtaining a permit demonstrates completion of firearm safety training, which can be advantageous, even with the state’s permitless carry option.
For more information on Ohio’s concealed carry laws and to access the full 2024 report, visit OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov/ConcealedCarry.
