may issue

“May issue” refers to the type of state gun laws that allow the issuing authority discretion in granting a license/permit to conceal or openly carry a firearm on one’s person. States with ”may issue” laws did not guarantee such licenses even if the applicant satisfied all of the objective requirements, like background checks or firearm educational classes. Rather, approval was also based on subjective determinations, such as a showing of good cause, proper reason, or an elevated need for self-defense. However, in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association (NYSRPA) v. Bruen 597 U.S. 1 (2022), the United States Supreme Court ruled that “may-issue” gun laws were unconstitutional because they violated the Second Amendment right to bear arms. In contrast, many states utilize a “shall issue” system for firearm carry permits. 

[Last reviewed in May of 2026 by the Wex Definitions Team]

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