Malcolm Rivera
Missouri is a permitless carry state, meaning no permit, background check, or firearms registration is required when buying a handgun from a private individual. Open carry and concealed carry are legal in Missouri without a Concealed Carry Permit (CCP) for anyone 19 years or older who can legally possess a firearm (18 for members of the military or honorably discharged). However, Missouri's new Gun Bill, also known as Constitutional Carry, took effect on January 1, 2017, with some portions taking effect on October 14, 2016. This law overturned a 128-year ban on concealed carry in the state, though some restrictions on who can obtain a concealed carry permit remain in place.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When does the new constitutional carry in Missouri take effect? | January 1, 2017 |
| Is Missouri a constitutional carry state? | Yes |
| Is a permit required for open carry in Missouri? | No |
| Is a permit required for concealed carry in Missouri? | No |
| Is Missouri a shall-issue state? | Yes |
| What is the minimum age to carry a firearm in Missouri? | 19 years (18 years for members of the military or honorably discharged) |
| What are the requirements to obtain a concealed carry permit in Missouri? | Firearms training and a live firing exercise |
| Are there any restrictions on where firearms can be carried in Missouri? | Yes, local authorities can restrict concealed carry in county or municipality-owned, leased, or controlled buildings |
| Does Missouri recognize concealed carry permits from other states? | Yes, Missouri offers resident and non-resident permits |
| What are the consequences of carrying a concealed firearm without a permit in a state that doesn't recognize Missouri's constitutional carry? | Possible felony arrest for carrying a concealed weapon unlawfully |
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What You'll Learn
- Missouri's constitutional carry law took effect on January 1, 2017
- Missouri is a permitless carry state
- Missouri's constitutional carry law allows for both open and concealed carry
- Missouri voters voted to change the state's constitution to strengthen the right to bear arms in 2014
- Missouri's constitutional carry law does not override other states' laws
Missouri's constitutional carry law took effect on January 1, 2017
Missouri's constitutional carry law, also known as the "Gun Bill", took effect on January 1, 2017. This law allows individuals to carry firearms without a permit, as long as they are not felons or prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm. While Missouri is a permitless carry state, permits are still issued for reciprocity purposes with other states.
Prior to the constitutional carry law, Missouri was already an "Open Carry" state, meaning that individuals could openly carry firearms as long as they were visible and the carrier was not a felon or prohibited from owning a firearm. The new law further relaxed gun restrictions by removing the requirement for a permit to carry a concealed firearm.
It is important to note that while Missouri's constitutional carry law allows for permitless carry within the state, other states may have different laws and restrictions. Individuals planning to travel to other states with a weapon are advised to obtain a Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permit to avoid legal complications. Most states do not have reciprocal "Constitutional Carry" laws, and even states with similar laws may not recognize Missouri's.
Missouri's constitutional carry law is based on the state's interpretation of the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees the right to bear arms. The law also reflects the state's commitment to upholding the rights of law-abiding citizens to purchase, possess, and use firearms for legitimate purposes.
In summary, Missouri's constitutional carry law, which took effect on January 1, 2017, allows individuals to carry firearms without a permit within the state. However, individuals planning to travel with firearms should be aware of the laws and restrictions in their destination states to avoid potential legal issues.
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Missouri is a permitless carry state
Missouri's gun laws have evolved over the years, with the state legislature overturning a 128-year ban on concealed carry in 2014. The Missouri Constitution was amended to strengthen the right to bear arms, defining this right as "unalienable" and mandating the state to defend against any "infringement." This amendment also guaranteed the right to defend one's "family" with a firearm.
While Missouri is a permitless carry state, permits are still issued for reciprocity purposes, ensuring that individuals with valid Missouri CCPs can carry their firearms in other states with similar laws. These permits are issued at the local level by county sheriffs and are available in different durations, including lifetime, 25-year, 10-year, and the standard 5-year permits.
It is worth noting that Missouri's gun laws do have certain restrictions. For example, to obtain a CCP, applicants must complete a live firing exercise and a live-fire test, demonstrating their proficiency with a firearm. Additionally, Missouri law prohibits individuals with a history of violent felonies or certain mental disorders from possessing firearms, aligning with federal restrictions.
While Missouri allows permitless carry, it is important for individuals to stay informed about the specific gun laws and regulations in the state, as they may be subject to change.
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Missouri's constitutional carry law allows for both open and concealed carry
Missouri's gun laws are notably more relaxed than those of other states. Missouri became a constitutional carry state in 2017, allowing individuals to carry a firearm without a permit. This applies to both open and concealed carry, provided the individual is eligible to own a firearm. Missouri's constitutional carry law permits anyone over the age of 19 to carry a firearm without a permit, and 18 for members of the military or those who have been honourably discharged.
Missouri's constitutional carry law means that a person does not need a Concealed Carry Permit (CCP) to carry a firearm. However, obtaining a CCP is still advisable for several reasons. A CCP allows for reciprocity with other states, making it legal to carry a firearm when travelling. A CCP also simplifies the process of purchasing a firearm, as it demonstrates that the individual has already undergone the required background checks and training.
Missouri's gun laws do not require a permit to purchase handguns or long guns, and there is no waiting period for firearm purchases. This is in contrast to states such as California, which enforces a ten-day waiting period, and New York, where open carry is banned. Missouri's constitutional carry law also allows for individuals to openly carry a firearm in state parks, national forests, restaurants, vehicles, and roadside rest areas. However, there are some restrictions on where firearms can be carried. For example, firearms are generally prohibited on school property, and in government buildings, courthouses, and police stations. Private property owners also have the right to restrict or allow concealed carry on their premises.
While Missouri's constitutional carry law allows for both open and concealed carry without a permit, there are still some important regulations that must be followed. Local authorities can restrict concealed carry in any building owned or controlled by the county or municipality, and may require a CCP for open carry. Additionally, individuals are required to carry their permit and photo ID when in possession of a concealed gun. It is also important to note that Missouri law prohibits the possession, sale, manufacturing, or purchase of assault weapons.
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Missouri voters voted to change the state's constitution to strengthen the right to bear arms in 2014
In 2014, Missouri voters approved Amendment 5, a legislatively referred constitutional amendment that strengthened the right to bear arms in the state. The amendment, which was on the August 5, 2014, primary election ballot, established the unalienable right of citizens to keep and bear arms, ammunition, and accessories associated with the normal functioning of such arms.
The amendment's approval meant that Missouri citizens could now defend their persons, families, homes, and properties with firearms. It also removed the exception to the former constitutional right to bear arms, which explicitly prohibited the wearing of concealed weapons. In addition, the amendment allowed the state to limit gun possession by convicted felons and those adjudged as mentally ill.
Prior to the 2014 amendment, the Missouri Constitution already provided protections for the right to bear arms in defense of one's home, property, and person. However, supporters of Amendment 5 argued that the amendment would force courts to use a higher standard of review when considering the constitutionality of gun controls. They believed it would strengthen the right to bear arms and make it easier to challenge state and local gun laws in court.
The amendment passed with a vote of 122-31 in the House and 23-8 in the Republican-led Senate, and it was added to the statewide November general election ballot. Despite its passage, many General Assembly Democrats opposed the measure, arguing that it would make regulating guns and violent criminals more challenging. They also believed that it would put people's lives in danger.
It is important to note that while Missouri is a permitless carry state, permits are issued for reciprocity purposes at the local level by county sheriffs. There are also requirements and qualifications that individuals must meet to obtain a concealed carry permit, such as completing firearms training or safety courses.
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Missouri's constitutional carry law does not override other states' laws
Missouri became a constitutional carry state in 2017, allowing individuals to carry a firearm without a permit. However, Missouri's constitutional carry law does not override other states' laws. Each state has its own gun laws and regulations, and Missouri's constitutional carry law is not recognised in other states. Therefore, if an individual plans to leave Missouri with a firearm, they need to obtain a concealed carry permit (CCW) recognised by the state they are visiting to avoid legal repercussions.
Missouri offers resident and non-resident CCW permits, with the latter issued to active-duty military and veterans stationed in the state. To obtain a CCW permit in Missouri, individuals must meet specific requirements, including being at least 19 years old (or 18 for members of the military or honourably discharged), being a US citizen or legal permanent resident, and providing evidence of firearms training by a Missouri-certified instructor.
While Missouri does not require a permit, background check, or firearms registration when purchasing a handgun from a private individual, other states may have different requirements. For example, states like Illinois and New Jersey require extensive background checks and training for concealed carry permits. Therefore, it is essential to research and understand the specific gun laws and regulations of each state when travelling with a firearm.
It is worth noting that Missouri is a "shall-issue" state, meaning that permits are issued for reciprocity purposes by county sheriffs. This allows Missouri CCW permit holders to carry concealed weapons in states that extend reciprocity. However, as of 2021, most states do not have reciprocal "Constitutional Carry" laws, and even states with constitutional carry may not recognise Missouri's law. As a result, individuals carrying a concealed firearm in another state without the required permit may be subject to felony arrest for unlawfully carrying a concealed weapon.
In summary, while Missouri's constitutional carry law allows individuals to carry a firearm without a permit within the state, it is crucial to obtain a valid CCW permit when travelling to other states. The CCW permit ensures compliance with varying gun laws and prevents legal complications. Each state has the authority to determine the requirements and limitations on the carry of firearms, and it is the responsibility of individuals to familiarise themselves with the applicable laws when crossing state lines.
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Frequently asked questions
The main portion of the law, which deals with "Constitutional Carry", took effect on January 1, 2017. However, some portions took effect earlier, on October 14, 2016.
The "Constitutional Carry" law in Missouri allows individuals to carry a firearm without a permit, as long as they are 19 years or older (18 for members of the military or honorably discharged) and can legally possess a firearm.
Yes, local authorities in Missouri can restrict concealed carry in certain areas, such as buildings owned or leased by the county or municipality, and may require a permit for open carry in these locations.
If you never plan to leave the state of Missouri with a weapon, then you do not need a concealed carry permit. However, if you plan to travel outside of Missouri, even for a short period, you will need a CCW permit, as most other states do not recognize Missouri's "Constitutional Carry" law.
To obtain a concealed carry permit in Missouri, individuals must meet certain requirements, including completing a firearms safety course or an NRA course, and demonstrating proficiency with a firearm through a live firing exercise.
