Can you get a concealed carry permit with a felony record?

If you want to carry a firearm to protect yourself, Arizona is one of the better places to be. After all, according to the Giffords Law Center, most adult Arizonans have a legal right to carry a firearm in public without first obtaining a concealed carry permit. Still, the state continues to allow individuals to apply for these permits.

One of the more significant benefits of having a concealed carry permit is being able to purchase firearms without going through a federal background check. Nevertheless, if you are under a felony indictment or have a felony conviction in your past, you likely are not eligible for a concealed carry permit.

Federal law prevents felons from possessing guns

In response to a few high-profile assassinations, congress passed the Gun Control Act of 1968. This law prevents anyone who has a felony conviction from owning firearms. Furthermore, if you have a felony conviction in your past, you may face additional criminal charges for possessing a gun.

State law prevents felons from obtaining concealing carry permits

When you apply for a concealed carry permit, you must answer questions about your criminal history. You also must submit your fingerprints for a criminal background check. Obviously, because felons cannot possess guns legally, Arizona officials refuse to give concealed carry permits to them. The same is true for those who are facing felony charges.

An expungement may be the workaround you need

Even though you cannot change the past, you may be eligible for an expungement of your criminal conviction. With an expungement, a court effectively removes your criminal record. Ultimately, if you can expunge your felony conviction, you may have a clearer path to obtaining a concealed carry permit.