5 Mistakes That Could Cost You Your Concealed Carry Permit in New Jersey

And How to Avoid Becoming the Next Headline

By Stephen Mazzagatti, Retired NJ State Trooper
Author of Defend Confidently: Elevate Situational Awareness, Secure Your Personal Safety, and Master Concealed Carry

You finally received your concealed carry permit in New Jersey — but you’re still not safe. In fact, thousands of permit holders across the state are making critical mistakes that could cost them their permit, their gun, or worse — their freedom.

As a retired NJ State Trooper and firearms instructor, I’ve seen firsthand what happens when good people make bad decisions simply because they weren’t properly informed. Let’s break down the five most common mistakes I see every week, and how you can avoid becoming the next cautionary tale.

1. Ignoring “Sensitive Places” — A Legal Trap

Did you know that carrying in a municipal parking lot or your favorite diner could be illegal?

New Jersey law prohibits concealed carry in many public areas — including schools, municipal buildings, and any restaurant that serves alcohol (even if you’re not drinking).

One wrong turn into a government-owned lot or a quick stop to pick up your sick child from school can result in criminal charges if you’re not careful.

Tip: Always plan your routes and parking. If you accidentally enter a sensitive area, leave immediately. That “quick stop” isn’t worth your permit.

2. Poor Concealment and Printing

You may think printing doesn’t matter — but someone else noticing the outline of your firearm can lead to a 911 call.

Even though printing isn’t illegal, it draws unwanted attention and could lead to police involvement. Worse, it gives away your tactical advantage.

Solution: Dress appropriately. Use a high-quality holster and belt system that secures your firearm, protects the trigger, and remains truly concealed.

3. Mishandling Police Encounters

In New Jersey, if you’re carrying and get stopped by law enforcement, you must disclose and show your permit. That’s the law.

Debating legalities roadside, acting argumentative, or failing to properly communicate can lead to the suspension or revocation of your permit — on the spot.

Advice: Keep your hands visible, follow instructions, and calmly disclose your permit status. Save debates for court, not the curb.

4. Failure to Maintain Training

Shooting qualification every two years is a legal requirement — but that’s the bare minimum. Many permit holders never train again after qualifying.

In a real-world incident, you don’t rise to the occasion — you fall back to your level of training. And if you haven’t trained in two years? You’re likely not prepared to defend yourself responsibly.

Train smarter: Use dry fire drills, scenario-based training, and range time to stay sharp. Master weapon retention and situational judgment.

5. No Legal Defense Plan

Even if you do everything right, one self-defense incident can cost you over $100,000 in legal fees — and you may still get arrested.

New Jersey does not currently allow firearm liability insurance, but there are legal defense membership programs that provide attorney coverage.

Action Step: Join a legal defense program. Know your rights. And be ready to invoke your Fifth Amendment rights politely until you have an attorney present.

Carrying in New Jersey is a Privilege — and a Responsibility

What hurts most is seeing good, responsible people lose everything because they weren’t prepared for the legal, tactical, or situational challenges of concealed carry in New Jersey.

That’s why I created my book, Defend Confidently, and our full online course to help concealed carriers like you stay informed, prepared, and legal — every single day.

🎯 Ready to elevate your awareness and master concealed carry in NJ?

📘 Get the book: Defend Confidently on Amazon
🎓 Take the full course: Elevate Situational Awareness – Online Training

Stay safe. Stay trained. Stay legal.
— Stephen Mazzagatti