NC H338

Allows North Carolina sheriffs to issue lifetime concealed handgun permits with no expiration date, in addition to the existing five-year fixed duration permits.

Applicants may choose whether to apply for a fixed duration permit or lifetime permit on their application, and existing permit holders may renew as a lifetime permit or convert a lifetime permit back to fixed duration.

Lifetime permits must display a clear indication of lifetime duration on the permit face, while fixed duration permits display an expiration date.

Maintains existing qualification requirements, background checks, and fingerprinting procedures for both permit types; fees remain $80 for new applications and $75 for renewals or reissuance.

Becomes effective December 1, 2023, and applies to all permits issued or renewed on or after that date.