Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card

Pepper Spray → United States

Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-04-24

ALLOWED

Legal in all 50 states with variations

Details

Pepper spray is legal for self-defense in all 50 US states. Some states restrict concentration (2% OC maximum in some), size (2oz maximum in some), or require minimum age. New York, Massachusetts, and Wisconsin have specific purchase restrictions. TSA prohibits pepper spray in carry-on luggage.

Quantity limit

Personal self-defense

Legal reference

State-level self-defense laws

IATA dangerous goods

Pepper Spray is classified under Class 2.2 — Non-flammable, non-toxic gas. Cabin and checked-baggage limits apply on top of customs rules.

Practical advice

Legal in all states but restrictions vary. Must be in checked luggage for flights.

Customs authority

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) · https://www.cbp.gov