Introduction to Concealed Carry Laws Mississippi
Few states offer as much freedom with firearms as Mississippi. Thanks to concealed carry laws Mississippi, adults who can legally own a handgun are free to carry concealed without a permit under many circumstances. Yet, at the same time, the Magnolia State still issues two types of firearm licenses for those who want more benefits, including broader reciprocity and additional carry privileges.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Mississippi’s permitless carry policy, its standard and enhanced permits, and how these regulations fit into CCW requirements by state across the nation. We’ll also touch on Mississippi’s self-defense laws, which include stand-your-ground and castle doctrine provisions. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer, understanding these concealed carry laws Mississippi has in place is vital for responsible firearm ownership.
Table of Contents
Permitless Carry in Mississippi
A major hallmark of concealed carry laws Mississippi is the allowance of permitless carry (often called “constitutional carry”). If you are at least 18 years old, legally permitted to own a handgun, and not engaged in criminal activity, you can carry your pistol concealed in a belt holster, shoulder holster, or enclosed case (such as in a purse or satchel) without needing a state permit.
- Legal Age: The law does not specify a strict minimum age for permitless concealed carry. However, Mississippi’s Department of Public Safety generally treats 21 as the standard age.
- Location Restrictions: Permitless carriers must still avoid places that are statutorily off-limits, such as schools, bars, and posted private properties.
Permitless carry expands your right to bear arms, but it also makes knowledge of concealed carry training and safe handling more essential than ever.
Standard and Enhanced Permits
Even though Mississippi is a permitless carry state, there are two optional licenses:
Standard Firearms Permit (SFP)
- Issued to applicants 21 years or older (or 18 if active-duty military).
- Requires a background check, fingerprinting, and submission of an application.
- Allows concealed carry in most public areas but bars you from certain restricted locations, such as courthouses or areas that serve alcohol, unless you receive explicit permission.
Enhanced Standard Firearms Permit (E-SFP)
- Same age, residency, and background requirements as the SFP.
- Requires an 8-hour firearms training course certified by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety or documentation of relevant military or law enforcement experience.
- Grants more expansive carry privileges, permitting concealed handguns in areas where standard permits are otherwise barred (though some high-security locations remain off-limits).
Note: The E-SFP does not remove all restrictions. For instance, it still won’t allow you to carry in federal buildings or detention facilities.
Self-Defense Laws and Castle Doctrine
Mississippi upholds a strong tradition of self-defense, featuring both stand your ground and castle doctrine principles. A law-abiding citizen who is not the initial aggressor has no duty to retreat if faced with a deadly threat in a location they have a right to be. Additionally, you may use deadly force to resist an assault in your home (broadly defined as a “dwelling”), place of business, or vehicle.
Under concealed carry laws Mississippi, you can generally keep a loaded handgun in your vehicle for self-defense. Should you be forced to use deadly force under circumstances the law deems justified, you will enjoy certain immunities from civil suits if you were criminally found “not guilty.”
For more legal educational resources on self-defense laws and Second Amendment laws, you can visit our online resources guide for firearms owners.
Reciprocity and Traveling with Your Firearm
Since Mississippi practices permitless carry, anyone legally eligible to possess a firearm can carry without a permit. However, if you plan on leaving the state, reciprocity becomes crucial. Understanding CCW requirements by state can save you major hassles (or legal complications) when traveling.
- Standard Permit: Recognized by many states, but you may face more restrictions than with an enhanced permit.
- Enhanced Permit: Offers broader acceptance in additional states because of the mandatory concealed carry training.
Before crossing state lines, research local laws: some jurisdictions accept your Mississippi permit (standard or enhanced), some only respect enhanced permits, and others might require you to lock up your firearm.
Places Off-Limits to Carry
Even though Mississippi is lenient about who can carry, you still need to watch out for certain off-limits areas:
- K-12 schools and certain college campuses (though an enhanced permit can allow limited campus carry).
- Bars or the bar area of a restaurant if you only hold a standard permit.
- Courthouses, prisons, and jails.
- Private properties or businesses that post “No Weapons Allowed.” Violating these signs can lead to legal consequences, including trespassing charges.
- Secure government facilities, such as federal buildings and detention centers.
Employer Policies and Parking Lot Storage
State law prohibits employers from banning locked firearms inside an employee’s private vehicle, with limited exceptions (for instance, in high-security areas). If your company tries to enforce a “no guns” policy in its parking lot, know that Mississippi law typically shields your right to keep your firearm locked within your vehicle.
No Red Flag Law
Concealed carry laws Mississippi do not include a red flag provision. This means the state doesn’t have a legal mechanism for law enforcement or family members to petition a court for temporary removal of firearms from a person deemed dangerous. Always keep in mind that federal law, mental health adjudications, and other prohibitions still apply to firearm ownership.
Making the Most of Your Firearms Freedom
- Stay Current on the Law: Regulations can change, especially regarding posted properties and the boundaries for standard and enhanced permits.
- Seek Concealed Carry Training: Even though Mississippi doesn’t mandate training for a standard permit, getting hands-on instruction from a certified instructor is an excellent step toward safer carrying.
- Check Reciprocity: If you travel, confirm CCW requirements by state. This ensures you remain compliant across state lines.
- Know Your Limits: An enhanced permit grants broader privileges, but not total freedom. Federal restrictions, for instance, still apply.
Policing the Brass - Concealed Carry Laws Mississippi
In a state that embraces the right to bear arms, it’s crucial to fully understand concealed carry laws Mississippi sets forth. From permitless carry and open carry at age 18, to optional standard and enhanced permits for broader reciprocity, Mississippi’s rules are designed to empower law-abiding citizens while maintaining order. With solid concealed carry training, awareness of location restrictions, and a handle on self-defense laws, responsibly armed individuals can exercise their Second Amendment rights confidently.
Remember, knowledge is the key to safe and lawful firearm ownership. Whether you stay in Mississippi or venture beyond its borders, keep yourself updated on CCW requirements by state. That way, you’ll be prepared to protect yourself and your loved ones wherever life takes you.
For a downloadable guide to concealed carry laws Mississippi, you can visit HandgunLaw.us on Mississippi’s laws.
Concealed Carry Laws Mississippi: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? | Yes. There is no state law in Mississippi prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray. As with all self-defense tools, use it responsibly and lawfully. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? | Mississippi is a shall-issue state. The Department of Public Safety issues permits (both Standard and Enhanced), although permitless carry is also allowed under certain conditions. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? | Yes. Anyone at least 18 who can legally possess a firearm may open carry in a holster, sheath, or scabbard that is at least partially visible and not prohibited by law. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? | Yes. Owning a Taser or stun gun does not require a permit. However, a Mississippi concealed carry permit is required if you want to carry it concealed in public. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? | Yes. A permit allows you to carry a stun gun or a concealed handgun. Mississippi statutes focus primarily on handguns, but an E-SFP (Enhanced Standard Firearms Permit) can offer broader privileges. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? | No. Mississippi does not impose specific ammunition restrictions. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? | No. There are no magazine capacity restrictions on handguns in Mississippi. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? | Generally, a person must be 21 to receive a standard or enhanced permit, although military members or veterans can qualify at 18. The statutes do not set a strict age for permitless carry, but the Department of Public Safety uses 21 as guidance. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? | Yes. Mississippi allows permitless carry (often referred to as constitutional carry) under certain conditions. A firearm may be concealed on your person if you can legally possess it and are not in a prohibited location. |
Carry Location Questions
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? | Yes, unless otherwise posted, and provided you are not otherwise prohibited from having a firearm. However, carrying in the bar area itself is off-limits. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? | Yes. You can carry concealed in these locations unless you are prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law. You must not be engaged in any criminal activity. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? | Yes, anyone who is not prohibited from possessing a handgun may carry it without a permit. It must be carried in a sheath, belt holster, purse, satchel, briefcase, or a fully enclosed case. |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? | Private businesses, including hotels, can post signs restricting or banning firearms. If clearly posted (readable from at least 10 feet stating “carrying of a pistol or revolver is prohibited”), it is off-limits. Contact the individual hotel to confirm policy. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? | Yes. Concealed carry is allowed at roadside rest areas in Mississippi, provided you are not otherwise prohibited from having a firearm. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? | Yes. Employers typically cannot prevent employees from storing firearms in a locked personal vehicle in a parking facility, with limited exceptions (e.g., secure lots, properties fully prohibited by law). |
Key State Laws
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? | No. Concealed carry registry information is not open to the public but is available to law enforcement. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? | No. There is no legal duty to inform an officer in Mississippi unless asked. |
| RED FLAG LAW? | No. Mississippi does not have a red flag law. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? | Yes. A property owner can restrict firearms by posting a sign stating “carrying of a pistol or revolver is prohibited.” Violating such a sign can result in legal consequences. Enhanced permit holders do have more leeway in some scenarios, but certain locations remain off-limits. |
| TRIBAL LAND | On Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians land, carrying concealed is not permitted. Always check tribal regulations before entering tribal lands. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? | Not specifically addressed by state statutes. Nonetheless, carrying while impaired can lead to severe legal and personal consequences, and is strongly discouraged. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? | Yes. Standard permits may be issued to non-residents if they have a permit from another state, are military stationed in Mississippi, or are a retired law enforcement officer residing in Mississippi. |
| BRANDISHING? | Not explicitly defined. However, “brandishing” can fall under unlawful wielding of a deadly weapon, which is punishable if done threateningly or without lawful reason. |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? | Yes. If an officer runs your Mississippi driver’s license, it will indicate if you hold a Mississippi firearms permit. |
| PREEMPTION? | Yes. Mississippi law supersedes local handgun ordinances, though localities can regulate firearm discharge and carry at parks, political events, etc., with signs specifying whether enhanced permit holders may carry or not. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| WAITING PERIOD? | No. There is no waiting period for handgun purchases in Mississippi. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? | Yes, if you hold a valid Mississippi concealed pistol/revolver permit under Miss. Stat. Ann. § 45-9-101, you are exempt from needing a federal NICS check when purchasing a firearm from a dealer in Mississippi. This does not apply to security guard permits. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? | No. Mississippi does not require a permit to buy a handgun. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? | No. A background check is not mandated for private firearms transactions, but it is wise to maintain a bill of sale or other documentation for proof of ownership. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? | 18. You must be at least 18 to possess or transport a handgun in Mississippi. |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? | Yes. Anyone over 18 may carry a handgun on their own property, business premises, or in their vehicle without a permit. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? | No. Mississippi does not have a handgun registry. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES MISSISSIPPI HONOR? | Mississippi honors permits from all states with valid out-of-state weapons permits, regardless of the age of the permit holder. Because Mississippi has permitless carry, individuals legally able to possess firearms may carry concealed without a permit. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH MISSISSIPPI? | The following states honor Mississippi permits (with varying minimum age requirements based on permitless carry): • Alabama (≥19) • Arkansas (≥18) • Idaho (≥18) • Indiana (≥18) • Montana (≥18) • New Hampshire (≥18) • North Carolina • North Dakota (≥18) • South Dakota (≥18) • Vermont (≥18) Mississippi residents can also carry in Oklahoma without any type of permit, provided they carry their driver’s license or state-issued ID. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH MISSISSIPPI? | These states place conditions on recognizing Mississippi permits (resident-only or enhanced, etc.): • Alaska (≥21) • Arizona (≥21) • Colorado (Resident permits only, ≥21) • Florida (≥21) • Georgia (≥21) • Iowa (≥21) • Kansas (≥21) • Kentucky (≥21) • Louisiana (≥21) • Maine (≥21) • Michigan (Resident only, ≥21) • Missouri (≥19 or 18 military) • Nebraska (≥21) • Nevada (Enhanced only) • New Mexico (≥21) • Ohio (≥21) • Oklahoma (≥21) • Pennsylvania (Resident only, ≥21) • South Carolina (≥18) • Tennessee (≥18) • Texas (≥21) • Utah (≥21) • Virginia (≥21) • West Virginia (≥21) • Wisconsin (≥21) • Wyoming (≥21) |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? | Current permitless carry (constitutional carry) states (with age requirements): • Alabama (≥19) • Alaska (≥21) • Arizona (≥21) • Arkansas (≥18) • Florida (≥21) • Georgia (≥21) • Idaho (≥18) • Indiana (≥18) • Iowa (≥21) • Kansas (≥21) • Kentucky (≥21) • Louisiana (≥21) • Maine (≥21) • Missouri (≥19 or 18 for military) • Montana (≥18) • Nebraska (≥21) • New Hampshire (≥18) • North Dakota (≥18) • Ohio (≥21) • Oklahoma (≥21) • South Carolina (≥18) • South Dakota (≥18) • Tennessee (≥18) • Texas (≥21) • Utah (≥21) • Vermont (≥18) • West Virginia (≥21) • Wyoming (≥21) |
Concealed Carry License Information Questions
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Within 30 days, notify the Department of Public Safety in writing. You must provide a notarized Lost or Destroyed Permit Affidavit or a notarized statement explaining the situation. A duplicate permit costs $15. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Initial permits are valid for 5 years, while renewals typically last 4 years. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Applications can be found through the Mississippi Department of Public Safety website or at a Highway Patrol substation. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Technically, Mississippi doesn’t issue standard “non-resident permits.” However, if you have a valid permit from another state, are active military stationed in Mississippi, or are a retired LEO establishing residency, you may qualify for a Mississippi permit. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF MISSISSIPPI AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | Moving into Mississippi: You can apply for a standard permit if you meet residency requirements, or qualify as active military/retired law enforcement. Enhanced permits are for residents only. Moving from Mississippi: Once you establish residency elsewhere, your MS permit may no longer be valid. Contact the Firearm Permit Unit for specifics. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | Initial permit: $112. Renewal: $72 (or $52 if over 65). Late fee: $15 (within 6 months of expiry). Some exemptions exist for military and retired law enforcement. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | The Department of Public Safety typically processes permits within 45 days. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Notify DPS in writing within 30 days. Include old and new addresses, name, permit number, and contact info. Mail to: Firearm Permit Unit, P.O. Box 958, Jackson, MS 39205-0958. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | Applicants must be 21 (or 18 for military), have resided in MS for 12+ months (unless waived by active military/valid out-of-state permit), have no disqualifying felonies or mental health adjudications, and meet federal law requirements. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1) Download the application 2) Complete and notarize 3) Submit to DPS or a Highway Patrol substation with valid IDs, photograph, and fingerprints 4) Await approval/denial |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | None for a Standard Firearms Permit. Enhanced permit applicants must complete an 8-hour DPS-approved firearms safety course or have documented law enforcement/military handgun training. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | Renewal notices go out 90 days before expiration. You have until the permit expires (and up to 6 months with a late fee) to submit the application. After 6 months, the permit is permanently expired, requiring a new application. |
| WHERE CAN CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Generally, you may carry in vehicles, roadside rest areas, state/national parks, and non-posted private properties. Specific prohibitions apply if posted or if it’s a restricted area like bars or bar sections in restaurants. |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Off-limits places include K-12 schools, many college events, courthouses, jails, sheriff/police stations, polling places, posted private property, bars, and federal buildings. Enhanced permit holders have more leeway but are still restricted in certain high-security areas. |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is illegal to intentionally interfere with the lawful taking of wildlife. This includes hindering hunting activities. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes. Open carry is allowed for anyone not prohibited from possessing a firearm, and concealed carry is allowed for permit holders. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes. The same rules for open or concealed carry apply, provided you hold a permit for concealed carry or are carrying openly under state law. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Most knives are legal to own. Minors and felons cannot own certain knives (e.g., Bowie, dirk, butcher, switchblade). You may openly carry any knife, but concealed carry of dangerous knives is generally restricted unless in your home, vehicle, or during lawful sporting activities. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | There is no known statute that prohibits wearing a COVID mask while lawfully carrying concealed in Mississippi. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Yes. Military members, honorably retired LEOs, and certain veterans may be exempt from training requirements for Enhanced Permits or qualify for immediate waiver of residency. Retired LEOs can also pursue LEOSA carry credentials. |
Legal Note
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort has been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances can vary. It is solely the reader’s responsibility to verify the accuracy and applicability of any information presented here. The author, publisher, and any affiliated entities assume no liability for actions taken by readers based on the content of this article. For specific legal guidance, please consult a qualified attorney.
