In Idaho, as in many states, laws regarding the possession and carrying of knives can be confusing. Whether you’re a collector, outdoors enthusiast, or simply someone who carries a knife for everyday tasks, understanding your rights and the regulations surrounding knives is essential. Here’s what you need to know about knife laws in Idaho in 2025.
General Knife Laws in Idaho
Idaho law does not impose strict regulations on the possession of knives. Residents can generally own and possess a wide variety of knives, including folding knives, fixed-blade knives, and switchblades, as long as they are used for legal purposes.
Key Points:
No Statewide Knife Registration: Idaho does not require knives to be registered or licensed.
No Statewide Knife Possession Restrictions: There are few restrictions on possessing knives. Most knives, including fixed-blade knives, folding knives, and common tools, are legal to own and carry.
Concealed Carry of Knives in Idaho
The laws surrounding the concealed carry of knives are more specific. In Idaho, it is illegal to carry a concealed weapon, which includes knives, unless you have a concealed carry permit. However, the legal definitions and rules around concealed carry of knives are important to understand.
Important Rules for Concealed Knife Carry:
Concealed Carry Without a Permit: It is generally illegal to carry knives concealed unless they are not readily accessible or hidden in a way that makes them difficult to access quickly. In some cases, a folding knife may be considered legal to carry concealed if it is not locked open or does not have a blade that opens automatically.
With a Concealed Carry Permit: If you have a concealed carry permit for handguns, you are legally allowed to carry a concealed knife, assuming the blade is under a certain length and the knife is not a restricted type (e.g., switchblades or automatic-opening knives).
Prohibited Knives in Idaho
While Idaho generally has lenient laws when it comes to knives, there are specific types of knives that are prohibited under state law.
Prohibited Types of Knives Include:
Switchblade Knives: While possession and sale of switchblade knives (automatic-opening knives) are generally legal in Idaho, carrying them concealed is prohibited unless you have a concealed carry permit.
Undetectable Knives: Knives that are made from materials that cannot be detected by metal detectors (such as ceramic knives) are also illegal to possess.
4. Carrying Knives in Certain Locations
In addition to general rules about concealed carry, there are restrictions on where you can carry knives. As in most states, certain locations such as schools, government buildings, and private properties can have specific rules about carrying knives.
Locations Where Knife Carry May Be Restricted:
Schools and School Grounds: In Idaho, it is illegal to carry any type of knife onto school grounds, unless you are a law enforcement officer or have special permission. This applies to both concealed and open carry.
Government Buildings and Public Events: Certain government buildings or public events may restrict the carrying of knives, even if the knives are legal to possess in general. Always check the specific rules at any event or public venue.
Knife Use and Self-Defense in Idaho
Using a knife in self-defense is allowed under Idaho law, as long as the use of force is reasonable and proportional to the threat. However, if you use a knife in an altercation and it’s determined that the force was excessive or unprovoked, you could face criminal charges.
Self-Defense and Knife Use:
Idaho law allows the use of force in self-defense, but it must be reasonable and necessary to protect yourself from immediate harm.
Stand Your Ground: Idaho follows a Stand Your Ground law, which means you do not have a duty to retreat if you are in a place where you have a legal right to be, and you reasonably believe that you are in danger of harm.
Knife Laws for Minors in Idaho
Minors (those under the age of 18) are subject to different restrictions regarding knives in Idaho. It is illegal for minors to carry certain types of knives, including switchblades or large fixed-blade knives, unless they have a lawful purpose (such as a knife for work, outdoor activities, or other approved uses).
Minors and Knife Possession:
Minors are generally allowed to possess folding knives for outdoor activities, such as camping or hunting, but carrying larger knives or concealed knives may be restricted.
Any unlawful carrying of knives by minors can lead to legal consequences, including fines or other penalties.
Idaho Knife Rights vs. Federal Laws
While Idaho law is relatively permissive regarding knives, federal laws may also apply. For example, federal law bans certain types of knives, such as ballistic knives, or those that open automatically by gravity or centrifugal force, regardless of state laws. It’s important to ensure that your knife does not violate both state and federal laws.
Federal Restrictions to Keep in Mind:
Federal Buildings: Certain federal buildings or areas governed by federal law may restrict or prohibit the possession of knives, including any knives with blades over a certain length.
Transportation Regulations: If you are traveling by air, knives are prohibited in carry-on luggage, regardless of the state you’re in. Always check TSA rules before traveling.
Know Your Rights and Responsibilities
In Idaho, knives are generally legal to possess and carry, but certain rules and restrictions apply, especially when it comes to concealed carry, prohibited knives, and specific locations. Always be aware of local ordinances in addition to state law, as certain cities or counties may have stricter regulations. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a collector, or someone who carries a knife for personal safety, it’s essential to understand the rules to avoid legal complications.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/idaho/
[2] https://legislature.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0048.pdf
[3] https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/idaho-governor-signs-knife-rights-preemption-bill/
[4] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/idaho-knife-laws/
[5] https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/knife-rights-idaho-debanking-protection-bill-signed/
