Georgia stands out for its straightforward knife laws, but there are key nuances every resident and visitor should know to stay on the right side of the law. This guide covers what you can legally own, where you can carry, and the crucial restrictions for carrying knives in the state.
What Types of Knives Are Legal in Georgia?
Georgia law generally allows the ownership of nearly all types of knives, including:
There are no outright bans on owning a particular type of knife, with very few exceptions (such as certain ballistic knives).
Carrying a Knife: Blade Length Is Key
Blade length determines how you can legally carry your knife:
Knives with blades of 12 inches or less:
You may open or conceal carry these knives anywhere in Georgia without requiring a permit or license.
Knives with blades over 12 inches:
These are considered “weapons.” To carry them (openly or concealed) in public, you must obtain a Georgia Weapons Carry License (WCL). Carrying such a knife without a license is illegal and may lead to misdemeanor or felony charges.
Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry
| Blade Length | Legal to Carry Openly | Legal to Carry Concealed | Permit Needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| ≤ 12 inches | Yes | Yes | No |
| > 12 inches | Yes (with WCL) | Yes (with WCL) | Yes (WCL required) |
Who Can Obtain a Weapons Carry License?
To carry a knife with a blade longer than 12 inches, you need a Georgia Weapons Carry License. Requirements include:
The application is submitted at your local county probate court.
Where You Cannot Carry a Knife
Even with a WCL, state law bans knives in specific places regardless of blade length:
Private property owners can also post signage restricting knives, and violators may be charged with trespassing or other offenses.
Preemption: State Law Trumps Local Ordinances
Georgia’s law preempts most local knife ordinances. Municipalities and counties cannot enact knife restrictions stricter than those imposed by the state. However, always verify local rules since exceptions exist for certain places like government- or school-controlled properties.
Penalties for Illegal Knife Carry
Carrying a knife with a blade over 12 inches without a license:
Typically a misdemeanor (possible fines, jail up to one year)
Carrying a knife in a prohibited location:
Can be a felony, with penalties up to 5 years in prison
Using a knife to commit a crime:
Substantially increases the severity of charges and sentences
Special Notes for Minors
Knife Use and Self-Defense
Georgia’s “Stand Your Ground” law does allow use of a knife for self-defense if you’re lawfully present and threatened. However, use of force must be reasonable under the circumstances, and excessive or inappropriate use can result in criminal charges.
Stay Legal, Stay Protected
Georgia’s knife laws are among the most permissive in the U.S., but respecting blade lengths, licensing requirements, and location-based restrictions is critical. If in doubt, consult the most current official statutes or speak with an attorney before carrying a knife in unfamiliar regions of the state.
Sources
[1] https://www.tosahwi.com/blogs/georgia-knife-laws-a-comprehensive-guide-2025-updated
[2] https://tkellknives.com/knife-laws-in-georgia-a-comprehensive-guide-to-legal-carry/
[3] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/
[4] https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/georgia-knife-laws/
[5] https://www.abtlaw.com/criminal-defense/weapon-crimes/knife-charges/
