Complete guide to electroshock weapon legality. Which states ban them, which require permits, and where you can carry for self-defense.
Although often used interchangeably, stun guns and Tasers are different devices with different legal treatments:
Most states group both under "electronic control devices" or "electroshock weapons." Some states ban stun guns but allow Tasers, or vice versa. Always check the specific language in your state's statutes.
No permit required. Concealed carry allowed.
No restrictions. Constitutional carry state.
No permit needed. Open/concealed allowed.
No restrictions. Legal to purchase and carry.
No permit required for adults 18+.
No permit needed. Must be 18+.
Legal. No permit required.
Legal with CCW permit for concealed carry.
No permit for open carry. CCW for concealed.
No restrictions. Constitutional carry.
No permit required since 2022.
No restrictions. Legal to carry.
No restrictions on stun guns.
No permit needed. Constitutional carry.
No restrictions. Legal to purchase openly.
No restrictions. Legal without permit.
No permit required. Must be 18+.
Legal. No permit required for 18+.
No restrictions.
No permit needed. Constitutional carry.
No restrictions.
No restrictions.
No permit needed for open carry.
No restrictions. Constitutional carry.
No restrictions.
No restrictions on stun guns.
No restrictions.
No permit needed. Must be 18+.
No restrictions. Constitutional carry.
No permit needed. Must be 18+.
No permit needed for stun guns.
No restrictions.
No restrictions.
No permit needed. Constitutional carry.
Legal without permit since 2021 (HB 1927).
No restrictions.
No restrictions. Constitutional carry.
No permit needed. Must be 18+.
Legal. No permit required.
No restrictions. Constitutional carry.
Legal without permit.
No restrictions.
Stun guns legal but require 10-day waiting period. No background check needed. Must be 18+. Tasers require permit.
Stun guns legal to own. Concealed carry requires CCW permit. Open carry not allowed.
Stun guns legal statewide since 2014 (after IL challenged ban). Requires FOID card to purchase.
Stun guns legal after 2017 court ruling. No permit for possession. Carry restrictions apply.
Stun guns legal since 2018 court ruling but require License to Carry (LTC) or FID Card. Very restricted.
Stun guns and Tasers are illegal for civilian possession. Only law enforcement may carry.
Stun guns and Tasers are prohibited for civilian possession. Criminal possession carries severe penalties.
Stun guns and Tasers are banned for civilian possession statewide. NYC has additional restrictions. *Some upstate counties may issue permits.
Stun guns legal only with a permit. Tasers require additional licensing. Very limited availability.
Stun guns and Tasers illegal for civilians in Washington D.C.
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A stun gun requires direct contact with the attacker. A Taser fires probes that travel up to 15-35 feet and deliver shock through wires. Tasers are generally more regulated due to their ranged capability.
In 42 states, yes — with varying restrictions. In Hawaii, New Jersey, New York (except limited permits), and D.C., stun guns are effectively banned for civilians.
Most states require no permit. Massachusetts requires an LTC or FID. California has a 10-day waiting period. Illinois requires a FOID card.