Do I still need a Concealed Carry Permit?

Why You Should Still Get Your Concealed Carry Permit — Even in a Permitless Carry State

Every time Ohio’s concealed carry laws come up, the same question follows:

“If I don’t need a permit anymore, why should I still get one?”

This weekend, I taught a concealed carry class with 16 students, and that exact topic came up more than once. The interesting part? Every person in that room still wanted their permit — even though Ohio no longer requires one to carry concealed.

That alone says a lot.

As an instructor, law-enforcement professional, and someone who works daily with responsible gun owners, here’s why getting your concealed carry permit still makes sense.

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1. Legal Knowledge Matters More Than Ever

Permitless carry does not mean law-less carry.

In fact, when Ohio moved to constitutional carry, it placed more responsibility on the individual, not less. Understanding:

• Where you can and cannot carry
• Use-of-force laws
• Duty to notify (and when it applies)
• Transport rules
• Federal restrictions
• Private property rights

…is critical.

A concealed carry class forces you to slow down and actually learn the law, not rely on Facebook posts, internet rumors, or “my buddy said” advice.

Ignorance of the law is not a defense — especially when the stakes involve your freedom, your firearm rights, and potentially your life.

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2. Your Permit Still Protects You When You Travel

One of the biggest reasons students cited in class was interstate reciprocity.

Ohio’s concealed carry permit is recognized by many other states. Without it, your legal ability to carry may stop at the state line — even if you’re legally carrying at home.

If you:

• Travel for work
• Take road trips
• Visit family out of state
• Hunt, train, or attend classes elsewhere

A permit gives you legal continuity and peace of mind.

Permitless carry is state-specific. Your permit travels with you.

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3. Traffic Stops Go Smoother With a Permit

No one likes traffic stops — especially when you’re carrying a firearm.

While Ohio law has changed regarding notification, having a concealed carry permit still:

• Establishes immediate credibility
• Shows documented training
• Reduces confusion
• Helps officers quickly understand your status

As someone who’s been on both sides of that conversation, I can tell you: clear communication and documentation matter.

A permit doesn’t guarantee anything — but it helps avoid misunderstandings when seconds and stress are involved.

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4. Training Builds Confidence, Not Just Skill

Carrying a firearm is a serious responsibility.

A quality concealed carry class isn’t just about shooting. It’s about:

• Decision-making
• Threat recognition
• De-escalation
• Safe handling under stress
• Understanding consequences

Several students this weekend admitted they carried before, but never truly felt confident in when they should or shouldn’t act.

Training fills that gap.

Confidence comes from knowledge and preparation, not just owning a gun.

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5. Some Places Still Require a Permit

Even with constitutional carry, certain situations still favor — or require — a permit, including:

• Certain employment policies
• Business or property rules
• Range or club access
• Future legal changes

Laws change. Having a permit keeps you ahead of the curve, not reacting after the fact.

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6. A Permit Shows Responsibility — To Yourself and Others

One thing stood out during this class:
These students weren’t just checking a box.

They wanted to:

• Do things right
• Understand their responsibilities
• Carry confidently and legally
• Protect themselves and their families responsibly

A concealed carry permit represents intentional ownership, not casual carry.

That matters — especially when firearm ownership is under constant scrutiny.

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Final Thoughts from the Counter

Permitless carry gave Ohioans more freedom — but freedom comes with responsibility.

Getting your concealed carry permit is about:

• Education
• Preparation
• Legal protection
• Confidence

If you carry a firearm, you owe it to yourself to understand the laws, train properly, and be prepared for real-world scenarios — not just ideal ones.

The fact that 16 people still chose training this weekend tells me responsible gun owners understand that truth.

If you’re serious about carrying responsibly, the next step is proper training.

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Ready to Get Your Ohio Concealed Carry Permit?

At Timberlake Firearms, our Ohio Concealed Carry classes cover:

• Current Ohio firearms and self-defense laws
• Where you can and cannot legally carry
• Use-of-force considerations
• Safe handling and real-world decision making
• Live-fire qualification with experienced instructors

Whether you’re new to concealed carry or want to ensure you’re legally protected, our class gives you the knowledge and confidence to carry responsibly.

👉 Sign up for the next Ohio Concealed Carry Class here:
[REGISTER FOR CCW CLASS]

Classes fill quickly. Training matters.If you’re considering your concealed carry permit, Timberlake Firearms offers professional instruction grounded in real-world experience — not shortcuts.

Stay safe. Stay trained. Stay legal.

— Timberlake Firearms