Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card
Pepper Spray → United States
Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-07-25
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. In the reverse direction (taking pepper spray out of United States): restricted — Pepper spray may be carried out of United States where domestically lawful, but it is forbidden on aircraft cabins and prohibited at many destinations.
Quantity limit
Personal self-defense
Legal reference
State-level self-defense laws
Leaving with this item
Pepper spray may be carried out of United States where domestically lawful, but it is forbidden on aircraft cabins and prohibited at many destinations.
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. If unsure, declare on arrival — declared goods at worst attract duty or surrender, while undeclared goods found in screening are seized.
Customs authority
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) · https://www.cbp.gov