Blade Length Matters Most
- In Georgia, the legality of carrying a knife is primarily determined by blade length.
- Knives with blades 12 inches or less:
- You may openly or concealed carry any knife with a blade measuring 12 inches or less without a permit or license.
- This includes most pocket knives, hunting knives, switchblades, butterfly knives, and more.
- Knives with blades longer than 12 inches:
- These are classified as weapons under Georgia law.
- To carry a knife with a blade longer than 12 inches (openly or concealed) in public, you must have a Georgia Weapons Carry License (WCL).
- Carrying such knives without a WCL is a misdemeanor and may result in fines or jail time.
Where You Cannot Carry Knives
Regardless of blade length or licensing, you may not carry knives in certain locations:
- Government buildings
- Schools and school safety zones (knives over 2 inches are banned)
- Courthouses
- Airports beyond security checkpoints
- Jails and prisons
- Private property where knives are prohibited by the owner
Age Restrictions
- Minors (under 18) may carry knives with blades under 12 inches, but cannot carry longer blades without adult supervision or a WCL.
Types of Knives
- Georgia law does not specifically ban any particular type of knife for general ownership (e.g., switchblades, butterfly knives, Bowie knives are all legal to own and carry if under 12 inches).
- Ballistic knives are an exception and may be subject to special restrictions.
Statewide Preemption
- Georgia has a statewide knife law, meaning local governments cannot enact stricter knife ordinances than state law, though some cities may have additional restrictions in certain public buildings or parks.
Penalties for Violations
- Carrying a knife longer than 12 inches without a WCL: Misdemeanor, possible fines or jail.
- Carrying a knife in a restricted area: Can be a felony, with up to five years in prison.
- Using a knife in a crime: Increases severity of charges and penalties.
Quick Reference Table: Knife Laws in Georgia
| Blade Length | Permit Needed? | Where Legal to Carry |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ 12 inches | No | Most public places, open or concealed |
| > 12 inches | Yes (WCL) | Only with license, never in restricted areas |
Bottom Line:
In Georgia, you can legally own and carry most knives with blades up to 12 inches without a permit. For knives longer than 12 inches, you need a weapons carry license. Never carry knives in restricted areas like schools or government buildings, and always check for local exceptions. Violating these laws can lead to serious legal consequences.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.couteaux-morta.com/en/georgia-knife-laws/
[2] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/georgia/
[3] https://ravencresttactical.com/georgia-knife-laws/
[4] https://www.tosahwi.com/blogs/georgia-knife-laws-a-comprehensive-guide-2025-updated
[5] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/georgia-knife-laws/
