Wisconsin Gun Laws
If you’re looking to obtain a legal firearm in Wisconsin, here are some things about the permit process you should know:
Wisconsin is a shall-issue state that allows concealed carry for anyone 21 years of age. A Concealed Weapons License (CWL) is issued by the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ).
Is There a Waiting Period to Buy a Gun in Wisconsin?
No. There is no waiting period to buy a gun in Wisconsin.
Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Wisconsin?
No. A permit is not required to purchase a handgun or a long gun in Wisconsin.
Who is eligible to obtain a Concealed Weapons License (CWL) in Wisconsin?
Any Wisconsin resident who is at least 21 years of age can apply for a Concealed Weapons License (CWL).
Is firearms training a requirement in Wisconsin for a Concealed Weapons License (CWL)?
Yes. Wisconsin requires an applicant to attend a firearms-training course before applying for a Concealed Weapons License (CWL).
What are the requirements to obtain a Concealed Weapons License (CWL) in Wisconsin?
Applicants for a Wisconsin Concealed Weapons License (CWL) must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Ne a legal resident of Wisconsin
- Meet federal qualifications to purchase a handgun
- Complete a firearms-training course
What are the steps to obtain a Concealed Weapons License (CWL) in Wisconsin?
- Complete a firearms-training competency course
- Download an application at the Wisconsin Department of Justice Concealed Carry website doj.wi.gov. You can download an application and mail it in or fill it out online.
- Submit the application, firearms-training documentation, proof of Wisconsin residence, and fee online, or mail the application to the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Attn: Firearms Unit, PO Box 7130, Madison, WI 53707-7130.
How much does a Wisconsin concealed-carry permit cost?
The fee for a Wisconsin Concealed Weapons License (CWL) is $40.
Does Wisconsin recognize concealed carry pistol permits from other states?
Wisconsin honors concealed-carry permits from states it has reciprocity agreements with.
Is Wisconsin a Constitutional Carry state?
No. Wisconsin is not a Constitutional Carry state.
Is Wisconsin an Open Carry state?
Yes, open carry is allowed in Wisconsin without a permit nor license for any one at least 18 years old who can legally possess a firearm.
Is Wisconsin a Stand Your Ground state?
No. Wisconsin is not a Stand Your Ground state. State law imposes the duty to retreat.
Are AR-style and other semi-auto rifles legal in Wisconsin?
Yes, semi-auto rifles are legal to buy and possess in Wisconsin.
Are standard-capacity magazines allowed in Wisconsin?
Yes. There are no state laws restricting magazine capacities in Wisconsin.
Does Wisconsin have gun-storage laws?
Yes. Wisconsin has a safe-storage law. A person in Wisconsin is committing a misdemeanor if they knowingly leave a handgun within reach of any person under 14 years old.
Is Wisconsin a Red Flag state?
No. Wisconsin does not have a red-flag law.
