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New Requirements and Modifications Impact New Jersey's Concealed Carry Permit Process in 2023.
5-04-2023 5:27pm
New Jersey Concealed Carry Laws Undergo Changes in 2023
As of 2023, New Jersey has seen significant changes to its concealed carry laws. The state has generally prohibited the knowing possession of a handgun outside one's property or place of business without a permit. However, recent modifications have impacted the permit application process and requirements for handgun owners.
In the past, applicants needed to establish a "justifiable need" for carrying a handgun to obtain a permit. The Supreme Court, however, struck down New York's similar "proper cause" requirement in NYSRPA v. Bruen, calling New Jersey's provision problematic.
To apply for a concealed carry permit, applicants must go through the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) or local law enforcement. The application must be endorsed by at least four reputable persons, unrelated to the applicant, who have known them for a minimum of three years. These individuals must also provide relevant information supporting the applicant's suitability for a permit, including their use of drugs or alcohol.
Moreover, applicants must demonstrate familiarity with the safe handling and use of handguns and not be subject to any disqualifying factors under state law. The licensing officer must interview the applicant and their endorsers to ensure the applicant is unlikely to engage in conduct resulting in harm to themselves or others.
New Jersey now mandates that permit applicants complete training in the lawful and safe handling and storage of firearms. Starting in 2023, applicants must also maintain a minimum of $300,000 in liability insurance coverage for harm resulting from their firearm carry.
Permits to carry handguns in New Jersey expire two years from the date of issuance, and they may be renewed for two-year periods under the same conditions as original applications.
New Jersey does not allow the personal application or permit information regarding concealed weapons permit holders to be made public. Background investigation information is not considered a public record and is not disclosed to unauthorized persons.
Non-residents of New Jersey wishing to carry a handgun in the state must obtain a permit from NJSP under the same process as New Jersey residents.
These changes to New Jersey's concealed carry laws aim to strike a balance between the rights of responsible gun owners and the need for public safety while complying with recent Supreme Court decisions.
