Guns in Georgia: Questions & Answers1

Can you have a loaded gun in your car in Georgia?
Yes, any person who is not prohibited by law from possessing a handgun or long gun may have or carry it in his or her vehicle (owned or rented by you). In a vehicle you do not own, you must have the permission of the person who has legal control of the vehicle.

Can you drink and carry a gun in Georgia?
You may not discharge a firearm while under the influence. You may carry with a valid permit in restaurants that serve alcohol, unless posted (GA Code 16-11-134).

Is Georgia a Stand Your Ground State?
Yes. A person has no duty to retreat and is justified in threatening or using force against another when the person reasonably believes such threat or force is necessary to defend himself or herself or a third person against another’s imminent use of unlawful force or to prevent death or great bodily injury. Force may also be used to prevent the commission of a forcible felony, such as rape, armed robbery or kidnapping (GA Code 16-3-21).

Is Georgia an Open Carry State?
No. You must have a Georgia Weapons Carry License (WCL) or a license from a state that

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