Yes, Ohio is now a constitutional carry state. As of June 2022, you can legally carry a concealed handgun without a permit. So why are thousands of responsible gun owners still getting their Ohio CCW permit?
Because smart gun owners know there are significant advantages that a permit provides—benefits you simply don't get by carrying without one.
1. Carry in 38+ States Instead of Just Ohio
Constitutional carry only works in Ohio. The moment you cross state lines, you're subject to that state's laws—and many states don't recognize Ohio's permitless carry.
With an Ohio CCW permit alone, you can carry in approximately 25 states.
But here's where it gets interesting: Add an Arizona non-resident permit and a Florida non-resident permit, and you can legally carry in 38+ states—including popular destinations like Pennsylvania, Michigan, West Virginia, and South Carolina.
Multi-State Coverage Comparison
- No permit: Ohio only
- Ohio CCW: ~25 states
- Ohio + Arizona + Florida: 38+ states
If you travel for work, take road trips, or visit family in other states, this expanded coverage is invaluable.
2. Skip the NICS Background Check on Every Gun Purchase
Every time you buy a firearm from a licensed dealer, you go through the NICS (National Instant Criminal Background Check System). Sometimes it's quick. Sometimes there are delays—especially around holidays or during high-demand periods.
With a valid CCW permit, your permit IS your background check.
Ohio CCW holders can skip the NICS check entirely. Walk in, pick your firearm, show your CCW, complete the 4473, and walk out. No waiting. No delays. No "proceed with caution" status holds.
For frequent gun buyers, collectors, or anyone who values their time, this benefit alone is worth the cost of the permit.
3. Legal Protection Through Documented Training
This is the benefit nobody thinks about—until they need it.
If you ever have to use your firearm in self-defense, everything you've ever done (or haven't done) regarding firearms will be scrutinized. By prosecutors. By the other party's attorney. By a jury.
Having documented NRA-certified training shows you're a responsible gun owner who took the time to learn proper safety, handling, and legal requirements. It's evidence that you understand the gravity of carrying a lethal weapon.
"The training certificate from a CCW course isn't just paperwork—it's documentation that you invested in doing things the right way."
Constitutional carry gives you the legal right to carry, but it doesn't give you documented proof that you know what you're doing.
4. Meet Professional and Employment Requirements
Many jobs require documented firearms training:
- Security positions
- Armored transport drivers
- Private investigation
- Bail enforcement
- Executive protection
Even some non-security employers prefer or require employees who carry to have formal training certification. A CCW permit and NRA Basic Pistol certificate can be the difference between getting the job and being passed over.
5. Support Without the Hassle of In-Person Classes
Traditional CCW classes require you to take a full day off work, drive to a training facility, sit through hours of instruction, and complete a live-fire qualification.
Online CCW training changes that.
Complete the NRA Basic Pistol Shooting Course from your couch, at your own pace. Pause when you need to. Review sections you want to understand better. Take the exam when you're ready—with unlimited retakes.
Our multi-state package (Ohio + Arizona + Florida) takes about 8 hours total and costs $149—less than most single-state in-person classes.
The Bottom Line
Constitutional carry is great—it simplified Ohio's gun laws and respected citizens' Second Amendment rights. But it's the bare minimum.
Smart gun owners go beyond the minimum. They get trained. They get documented. They maximize their legal carry rights across state lines.
Don't settle for carrying in just Ohio when you could legally carry in 38+ states.
Ready to Get Your Multi-State CCW?
Complete your NRA Basic Pistol Course and multi-state certification 100% online. Our Multi-State Package (Ohio + Arizona + Florida) gives you maximum reciprocity at the best value.
All courses include NRA Basic Pistol Shooting Course certification, state-specific training, and completion certificates for permit applications.