Delaware is strict but not as strict as some surrounding states. If you are traveling from state to state and carrying, you need to know the situation in each state you are entering or you could get into trouble. For certain states or if you have any doubt at all, keeping moving through the state (reference the McClure-Volkmer Act to only stop for gas and emergencies) towards your final destination state. Your destination state must have acceptable laws for your stay. We make some generalities with our color map here for ease of use so you should always look up the current details of the laws. Handgun laws are where it usually varies the most. This is a controversial issue but which ever side you are on, it is better to have informed people out there. You can also download an easy to print version with all states and details.
Delaware Gun Law Travel Guide Basics
Ownership: unrestricted, no permit or license necessary
Consistency of laws: uniform throughout state, local areas are prohibited from changing laws
Self-defense: NO castle doctrine
Open carry: unrestricted under state but local laws differ
Concealed carry: some licenses granted, accepts permits from a few other states
Vehicle carry handguns: loaded in plain view or in trunk or outside storage
Vehicle carry long guns: must be unloaded
Official source information
Delaware Code 11 – 1441
Delaware Statutes
Delaware Legislature
State Firearms Association
Delaware State Home Page
Do you have any experiences in Delaware that you care to share with other travelers?
Open carry is not restricted within Delaware EXCEPT within the city limits of Dover. In Dover a Delaware CCDW permit is required to carry a deadly weapon.
Thank you very much for the clarification. Since we are not lawyers, we try to be specific in some ways but vague in others so people will hopefully check into the laws further. That and we don’t want to get so specific to then have someone get into trouble right after a law changes. Thank you.