Weapons in CMVs - Ohio

Ohio is a constitutional carry state, which means law-abiding adults 21 years and older who can legally possess a firearm under federal and state law may carry a concealed handgun without obtaining a permit. Ohio law does not address carrying in a private vehicle in its constitutional carry law; however, guidance from the state attorney general’s office suggests that carrying in a vehicle is allowed except in school safety zones and other forbidden-carry zones.

Permits

Concealed handgun licenses (CHLs) are not required but may be useful for reciprocity with other states. CHLs are issued by local county sheriffs’ offices. CHLs are open to qualified residents and to non-residents who work in Ohio. Firearms training is required to receive a CHL. Ohio has broad reciprocity with a majority of other states and recognizes valid permits issued by any other state.

Other weapons

Ohio does not permit concealed carry of any other weapons.

Permitted non-lethal weapons include:

• Stun guns/tasers
• Pepper spray
• Tear gas (with restrictions)
• Bear spray (legal for self-defense against wildlife)
• Bludgeons/batons (unless used with criminal intent)
• Brass knuckles
• Less-lethal launchers
• Duty to inform

There is no duty to inform in Ohio unless asked by law enforcement. The law explicitly names commercial motor vehicle drivers in its requirements.

Employee parking lots

Employers in Ohio may not prohibit employees from storing lawfully carried weapons in locked vehicles in employer parking lots as long as:

• The carrier has a valid concealed handgun license;
• The firearm and ammunition remain inside the person’s vehicle while the person is present, or that the firearm(s) and ammunition are locked inside the trunk, glove box, or other secure enclosed container inside the vehicle when the person is away from the vehicle;
• The vehicle is parked in a place where it is allowed to be parked.