2026 Snapshot
- Permit required for concealed carry: No (constitutional carry since 2022)
- Permit required for open carry: No
- Assault weapons ban: None
- Magazine capacity limit: No limit
- Waiting period for purchase: None
- Red flag / ERPO law: None
- Universal background check: No (FFL-only)
- NFA items (suppressors, SBRs, AOWs): All legal
- Hunting with suppressors: Legal
Recent Legislative Changes
The most significant recent change was HB 1013 (2022) establishing constitutional carry. No substantive restrictions have been added since — Georgia remains among the most gun-friendly states.
Private Sales
Georgia does NOT require background checks for private sales between Georgia residents. You may legally sell or buy a firearm from another GA resident without going through an FFL, provided both parties are legally eligible to own firearms. However, it is still illegal to knowingly sell to a prohibited person.
Stand Your Ground & Castle Doctrine
Georgia is a strong Stand Your Ground state. You have no duty to retreat before using force in self-defense, in your home, vehicle, or any place you have a legal right to be. The use of deadly force is justified if you reasonably believe it’s necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm to yourself or another.
Prohibited Persons
Federal law (18 USC 922(g)) applies. Georgia adds no additional prohibited classes beyond federal law.
Ammunition
No state restriction. Federal laws apply (no armor-piercing handgun ammo sold to civilians). Hunters should check GA DNR for lead/non-lead rules on specific WMAs.