Apply for Concealed Carry Permit in Tempe, Arizona

Public Safety Arizona 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 20, 2026 Flag of Arizona

In Tempe, Arizona residents must follow state rules when applying for a concealed carry permit. This guide explains eligibility, required documents, where to apply, and how enforcement and appeals work in Tempe. It highlights the roles of Arizona Department of Public Safety and Tempe city authorities, practical action steps, and official contacts to help you complete an application or respond to enforcement actions.

Eligibility & Legal Basis

Arizona issues permits to carry a concealed weapon through the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS). Local cities, including Tempe, generally follow state law for issuance and restrictions; Tempe enforces firearm-related offenses under city code and state statutes. For the official state application process and statutory basis, consult the DPS guidance.[1]

How to Apply

Follow these general steps to apply, gather documents, and submit to the state authority that issues permits:

  • Complete the DPS application form (see DPS site for current form and instructions).
  • Provide proof of identity and residency as specified by DPS.
  • Submit fingerprints and any additional background documentation required.
  • Pay application and processing fees as listed on the DPS site.
  • Wait for background checks and processing; follow up through DPS if delays occur.
Processing times and exact fees change; verify current details on the Arizona DPS page.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement in Tempe is carried out by Tempe Police and other authorized law enforcement under state and city law. Specific monetary fines, escalation ranges, or administrative fee amounts for carrying violations are not specified on the cited municipal pages; refer to state statutes and DPS guidance for criminal penalties and permit consequences.[2]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page for local ordinance fines; see state statute citations on DPS or state sites.
  • Escalation: first and repeat offense treatment is governed by state criminal code and is not summarized on the Tempe pages cited.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: possible seizure of firearms, criminal charges, and court action under state law.
  • Enforcer and complaints: Tempe Police Department handles local enforcement and complaints; contact Tempe PD for incident reporting.
  • Appeals and review: administrative review or court appeal procedures for permit denials are set by state guidance; specific time limits are not specified on the cited municipal pages.

Applications & Forms

The primary application form and instructions are published by the Arizona Department of Public Safety. The Tempe municipal site does not publish a local concealed carry application because permits are issued by the state. For names, form numbers, fees, and submission methods, use the DPS links and forms pages.[1]

Action Steps

  • Verify eligibility and required documents on the DPS application page.
  • Complete and submit the DPS form and fingerprinting as instructed.
  • Pay fees and retain receipts for appeals or recordkeeping.
  • If you receive enforcement action in Tempe, contact Tempe Police to request details and learn appeal options.

FAQ

Do Tempe residents apply to the city for a concealed carry permit?
No; permits to carry concealed weapons are issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety, not the City of Tempe.
What documents are typically required?
Typical requirements include a government ID, proof of residency, fingerprints, and any background documentation specified by DPS.
How long does processing take?
Processing times vary; check the DPS page for current estimates and updates.

How-To

  1. Confirm eligibility on the Arizona DPS concealed weapons permit page.
  2. Gather identity, residency documents, and any supporting records.
  3. Complete the official DPS application form and pay the fee.
  4. Schedule and submit fingerprints as required by DPS.
  5. Track the application with DPS and respond promptly to information requests.
  6. If denied or cited in Tempe, contact Tempe Police and consult DPS appeal procedures.

Key Takeaways

  • Permits are issued by Arizona DPS; Tempe enforces state and local firearm rules.
  • Use DPS official forms and follow fingerprint and fee instructions exactly.
  • Contact Tempe Police for local enforcement issues and to report incidents.

Help and Support / Resources


  1. [1] Arizona Department of Public Safety - Concealed Weapons Permit
  2. [2] City of Tempe - Police Department