Idaho is generally permissive regarding the ownership and carrying of pocket knives, but there are important restrictions and nuances depending on the type of knife, blade length, method of carry, age, and location.
General Legality and Preemption
- Idaho law does not ban the ownership or open carry of any specific type of knife, including pocket knives, switchblades, balisongs, or even swords.
- Statewide preemption is in effect as of July 1, 2024, meaning local governments cannot enact knife laws stricter than state law. This ensures uniformity across Idaho, so the same rules apply everywhere in the state.
Pocket Knives: Blade Length and Carry Rules
| Rule/Location | Blade Length Allowed | Concealed Carry | Open Carry | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Public | Any length | Yes, but see below | Yes | Most knives legal to own/carry |
| Concealed Carry (without permit) | ≤ 4 inches (not dirk, dagger, or bowie) | Yes | Yes | Knives over 4 inches or certain types require a permit |
| Concealed Carry (with permit) | Any length/type | Yes | Yes | Permit required for dirk, dagger, bowie knives >4 inches |
| Schools (K-12 grounds/buses) | < 2.5 inches | Yes | Yes | Anything longer is prohibited |
| Courthouses, Jails, Govt. Buildings | None (prohibited) | No | No | Knives not allowed regardless of length |
Key Restrictions and Exceptions
- Schools: Only pocket knives with blades less than 2.5 inches are allowed on school property (K-12 and school buses). Carrying any knife with a longer blade is illegal on school grounds.
- Concealed Carry: Without a permit, you may only conceal carry knives with blades 4 inches or less (excluding dirks, daggers, and bowie knives). Concealing larger knives or certain types requires a concealed weapons permit.
- Open Carry: There are no blade length restrictions for open carry in public, except in restricted locations such as schools and government buildings.
- Restricted Locations: Knives are prohibited in courthouses, jails, juvenile detention facilities, and certain government buildings regardless of blade length.
- Intent: Using any knife unlawfully (such as for assault or threats) is illegal and can result in serious criminal charges, regardless of the knife’s legality for carry.
- Minors: Minors can possess pocket knives, but carrying larger or certain types of knives may require written parental permission. Minors under 12 need parental approval to carry any knife.
Recent Legislative Changes
- Statewide Preemption (2024): As of July 1, 2024, local ordinances more restrictive than state law are null and void, ensuring statewide consistency.
- Switchblades Legalized: Idaho lifted its ban on switchblades in 2015. They are now legal to own and carry, subject to the same location and length restrictions as other knives.
Summary
- Idaho residents and visitors may generally own and carry most types of pocket knives.
- Concealed carry of knives with blades over 4 inches or of certain types (dirk, dagger, bowie) requires a permit.
- Open carry is broadly permitted except in sensitive locations.
- Pocket knives with blades under 2.5 inches are allowed on school property; longer blades are not.
- State law preempts local regulations, ensuring uniformity across Idaho.
Always check for updates or consult legal counsel for specific situations, especially regarding minors, restricted locations, or concealed carry requirements.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/idaho/
- https://knifeade.com/idaho-knife-law/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/idaho-knife-laws/
- https://edc.ninja/idaho-knife-laws/
- https://www.idahosheriffs.org/wp-
