Georgia GWL Application — Step by Step
The Georgia Weapons Carry License (GWL) is issued by the probate court of your county of residence. Since 2022, Georgia also allows permitless constitutional carry for any resident 21+ who is legally allowed to possess a firearm — but many gun owners still obtain a GWL for reciprocity with other states.
Who Can Apply?
- Georgia resident, 21 years or older (military 18+)
- No felony convictions, no misdemeanor convictions for “crime of violence” within 5 years
- Not an unlawful user of drugs, not adjudicated mentally ill
- US citizen or lawfully admitted permanent resident
Application Steps
- Visit your county’s Probate Court (list below)
- Submit the GWL application form with $75 fee (+ $4 processing)
- Complete electronic fingerprinting at a GA-approved vendor
- Wait for Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) background check (5-10 days)
- Receive GWL by mail (typical wait: 3-8 weeks)
GWL Fees
- $75 state license fee
- $4 processing fee
- Fingerprinting fees vary by vendor (typically $25-50)
- Total: approximately $100-130
GWL Renewal
GWLs are valid for 5 years. Renew 90 days before expiration to avoid a lapse. Renewal fee is $30 and requires a new background check but not re-fingerprinting if done before expiration.
Reciprocity with Other States
Georgia has GWL reciprocity with 35+ states. This is why most Georgia gun owners still apply despite permitless carry — your GWL covers you when traveling. States that recognize GWL include Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Common Application Rejections
- Any felony arrest, even without conviction (check with your court first)
- Multiple DUIs within 5 years
- Domestic violence order/protective order active
- Outstanding warrants or child support arrearage
- Dishonorable discharge from US military