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Concealed Carry Map

Non-Resident permit · CT → KY

Is a Connecticut Non-Resident Permit Valid in Kentucky?

Recognized — and permitless carry appliesVerified 2026-08-08

Yes. Kentucky recognizes the Connecticut non-resident permit — and because Kentucky has permitless carry for adults 21+, a permit isn't strictly required for eligible carriers anyway.

Why

KSP: 'A person who is not a resident of Kentucky and who has a valid license issued by another state... may carry a concealed deadly weapon in Kentucky.' Recognition covers deadly weapons generally, not just handguns. New Kentucky residents' out-of-state licenses stay valid for 120 days if they file the KSP form within 60 days of moving.

The permit (Connecticut)

Permit
State Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers (Connecticut State Pistol Permit)
Issued by
Two-step - local police chief/chief executive officer issues a temporary state permit, then the DESPP Special Licensing and Firearms Unit issues the state permit
Issue policy
May-issue
Issued to non-residents?
Yes — A bona fide US resident with no Connecticut residence who holds a carry permit or license issued by another state or subdivision may apply directly to the DESPP commissioner for a non-resident Connecticut permit (CGS 29-28(f)); DESPP requires that non-resident applicants already hold a home-state carry permit.

The destination (Kentucky)

Recognition policy
Honors permits from all states
Permitless carry
Yes (21+)
Duty to inform
No (present permit on demand)
Magazine limit
No state limit

Carry rules in Kentucky

Crossing into Kentucky swaps the rulebook. Here is what changes for a visiting carrier.

Off-limits places in Kentucky

See the full 50-state map for a Connecticut non-resident permit →

Frequently asked questions

Is a Connecticut non-resident permit valid in Kentucky?
Yes. Kentucky recognizes the Connecticut non-resident permit — and because Kentucky has permitless carry for adults 21+, a permit isn't strictly required for eligible carriers anyway.
Do I have to tell police in Kentucky that I am carrying?
No Kentucky statute or KSP guidance imposes a proactive duty to inform an officer that you are carrying.
Does Kentucky limit magazine capacity?
Kentucky sets no state magazine-capacity limit for handguns.
Can I carry in Kentucky without any permit?
Kentucky allows permitless concealed carry from age 21 for people who may legally possess a handgun, including eligible visitors.
Where does Kentucky publish its official reciprocity list?
Kentucky publishes its recognition policy on an official state page, linked in the sources on this page. That page is the authority — check it shortly before travel, because recognition lists change without much notice.

Official sources