NC H189

Allows any U.S. citizen at least 18 years old to carry a concealed handgun in North Carolina upon completion of an approved firearms safety and training course, effective December 1, 2023.

Permits persons to still obtain concealed handgun permits for reciprocity with other states and other purposes, with permits available through the existing Article 54B process.

Prohibits concealed carry for individuals with felony convictions (with limited exceptions), domestic violence convictions, dishonorable military discharge, recent impaired driving convictions, active indictments, and those adjudicated mentally ill or lacking mental capacity.

Authorizes elected state officials and appointed persons filling elective offices to carry concealed handguns while performing official duties if they have a concealed handgun permit, provided they do not carry while consuming alcohol or controlled substances.

Requires persons carrying concealed handguns to carry valid identification and disclose to law enforcement officers upon request; violations result in Class 3 misdemeanor for first offense and Class H felony for subsequent offenses under the permitless carry provision.