If you carry a pocket knife in Idaho, you’re in luck. The Gem State has some of the most knife-friendly laws in the country. Still, there are a few rules every resident and visitor should know before heading out the door.
Carrying a Pocket Knife Is Generally Legal
Most law-abiding adults in Idaho can choose what knife to carry and whether to carry it openly or concealed. Openly carrying a knife in plain view does not require any license, and there is no blade length limit for open carry.
What About Concealed Carry?
Idaho’s concealed weapons law, Idaho Code § 18-3302, lists certain knives such as dirks, bowie knives and daggers as “deadly weapons.” However, knives with blades of 6 inches or less are left out of that definition, so a typical pocket knife falls outside those rules.
For larger knives, Idaho’s “constitutional carry” provision lets adults 18 and older who are not otherwise disqualified carry a concealed deadly weapon, including knives with blades over 6 inches, without a license.
Switchblades and Butterfly Knives
Switchblades and butterfly knives (balisongs) are legal in Idaho. They follow the same general carry rules as other knives.
One Set of Rules Statewide
Since July 1, 2024, a law known as House Bill 620 has stopped cities and counties from creating their own knife rules. Any local knife ordinances were made void. This means the same knife laws apply whether you’re in Boise, Pocatello or a small rural town.
Where You Can’t Carry
Some places still have limits:
- Schools: Only a pocket knife with a blade shorter than 2.5 inches may be carried on K-12 school grounds and school buses.
- Courthouses, jails and juvenile detention centers have their own restrictions.
- Private property, workplaces and federal buildings may set their own rules.
Rules for Minors
People under 18 face extra requirements when it comes to carrying concealed weapons, so parents should check the rules before letting a teen carry a knife.
The Bottom Line
For most adults, carrying an everyday pocket knife in Idaho is simple and legal. Just stay aware of restricted places, and remember that laws can change. This article is for general information only and is not legal advice.
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