House Bill 312 takes effect Tuesday, creating concealed carry permit pathway for 18- to 20-year-olds

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — A new Kentucky law taking effect Tuesday creates a pathway for adults ages 18 to 20 to obtain a provisional concealed carry license, allowing eligible young adults to legally carry a concealed firearm after meeting specific training and background check requirements.

House Bill 312 requires applicants to complete classroom instruction, firearms training and a background check before a provisional license can be issued. Supporters say the law expands the rights of legal adults while emphasizing education and responsible firearm ownership.

Matt Osborne, a U.S. Concealed Carry Association (USCCA) certified instructor and former CIA officer, said the law is designed to ensure young adults receive proper training before carrying a concealed firearm.

“Kentuckians should know that this is a legal pathway for young adults to get vital education, training and awareness on how to become responsible holders of concealed carry permits,” Osborne said.

Unlike Kentucky’s permit-less concealed carry law, which applies to adults 21 and older who are legally allowed to possess a firearm, House Bill 312 requires those between 18 and 20 to obtain a provisional license through mandatory training and qualification.

Osborne compared the process to earning a learner’s permit before driving.

“Firearms training is even more important than the permit itself,” he said. “This type of permit allows adults between the ages of 18 and 20 to learn the responsibilities of carrying a firearm, understand Kentucky law and demonstrate they can safely handle a firearm before receiving a permit.”

Beyond marksmanship, Osborne said responsible concealed carry begins with avoiding dangerous situations whenever possible. He said situational awareness, conflict avoidance and de-escalation are central parts of firearms education.

“Awareness buys time. Time buys you opportunities and options,” Osborne said. “If you’re aware of your surroundings, you’re more likely to avoid a dangerous encounter altogether.”

He also encouraged parents to have serious conversations with young adults considering applying for the provisional license.

“This is not a game,” Osborne said. “It’s a tremendous responsibility. They need to take the education seriously because with that responsibility comes a very high legal standard.”

House Bill 312 has generated debate among supporters and critics. While supporters argue it recognizes the rights of legal adults while requiring extensive training, opponents have expressed concerns about whether younger adults have the maturity to safely carry concealed firearms.

Osborne said the law’s training requirements help address those concerns.

“This is not permit-less carry,” he said. “Applicants must complete rigorous classroom and range training, and if they don’t meet the standards, they won’t receive the permit.”

The new law officially takes effect July 14.