Knives are useful tools that many people carry every day for work, safety, or even hobbies like camping and fishing. But when it comes to carrying knives in public, each state has its own set of rules.
In Georgia, knife laws are relatively straightforward, but it’s still important to understand what you can legally carry—and where. This guide breaks down Georgia’s knife laws in simple terms, so you know your rights and stay on the safe side of the law.
What Does Georgia Law Say About Knives?
In Georgia, knives are regulated under state law, and the main rule is based on the blade length. According to Georgia law, if a knife blade is less than 12 inches, you can legally carry it without a permit.
If the blade is 12 inches or more, then it is considered a weapon and you’ll need a Weapons Carry License (WCL) to carry it in public.
So basically:
Knives with blades under 12 inches – Legal to carry without any permit.
Knives with blades 12 inches or longer – You can carry them, but you need a valid Georgia Weapons Carry License.
Types of Knives You Can Carry in Georgia
Georgia law does not ban specific types of knives. That means you can legally own and carry:
Pocket knives
Folding knives
Fixed-blade knives
Bowie knives
Machetes
Daggers
Switchblades (legal since 2012)
As long as the blade is under 12 inches, you’re free to carry these knives openly or concealed without a license.
Where You Can and Cannot Carry a Knife
Even though you can carry knives in most public places, there are some locations where knives are restricted, especially if the blade is 12 inches or more—even with a license.
You cannot carry knives into:
Government buildings
Schools (including colleges and universities)
Courthouses
Airports (past the security checkpoint)
Jails and prisons
Violating these rules can lead to criminal charges, even if you didn’t know you were breaking the law.
What About Concealed Carry?
In Georgia, there’s no special rule for concealed knives. Whether the knife is visible or hidden, the same blade-length rule applies. So if the blade is under 12 inches, you can carry it openly or concealed without a license. If it’s longer, you need a license no matter how you carry it.
Can Minors Carry Knives?
Yes, but there are limits. While Georgia law doesn’t set a specific age limit for owning a knife, schools have strict zero-tolerance rules about weapons.
That means students should never carry knives on school grounds, even small ones. Parents should also be cautious and make sure their children understand where and when it’s legal to carry a knife.
What Happens If You Break the Knife Laws in Georgia?
If you carry a knife that’s 12 inches or longer without a valid Weapons Carry License, or if you bring a knife into a restricted area like a school or courthouse, you can face:
Fines
Arrest
Criminal charges
Possible jail time (depending on the case)
In some situations, especially if someone is injured or threatened, charges can be more serious.
Georgia offers more freedom than many states when it comes to carrying knives. As long as your blade is under 12 inches, you’re free to carry it just about anywhere (except restricted places) without needing a permit.
But once the blade length goes over 12 inches, you’ll need a Georgia Weapons Carry License. Knowing the laws helps you stay safe, avoid legal trouble, and carry your knife with confidence.
