Introduction to Concealed Carry Laws Missouri
Few states in the nation demonstrate a stronger commitment to firearm rights than Missouri. The state not only recognizes permitless carry but also maintains a shall-issue system for those who need a physical permit—often for traveling or personal preference. While concealed carry laws Missouri are quite robust, understanding the finer details will help you responsibly exercise your Second Amendment rights.
This comprehensive article explores the nuts and bolts of Missouri’s permitless carry, explains how the standard concealed carry permit works, and clarifies where you can and cannot legally carry. You’ll also discover insights into concealed carry training and how these regulations fit into CCW requirements by state. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Permitless Carry and Eligibility
Missouri is a permitless carry state. This means if you are 19 or older (or 18 if you are military or honorably discharged) and can lawfully possess a firearm, you can carry a concealed handgun without needing a permit. However, the law does not clearly state “no permit needed”; rather, it amends the state’s unlawful use of weapons definition so it does not apply to lawful carriers outside restricted areas.
- Age Requirements
- Must be at least 19 years old (18 for active-duty military or honorably discharged).
- Legal Possession
- You must be allowed by law (both state and federal) to own a firearm.
Why Permits Still Matter
Even though you do not need a permit for day-to-day concealed carry, Missouri still issues Concealed Carry Permits (CCP) at the county level. Here’s why:
- Reciprocity: Many states honor Missouri’s permits and allow their holders to carry concealed there.
- Local Regulations: Some localities can impose additional rules for open carry if you do not have a permit.
- Proof of Proficiency: A CCP requires concealed carry training, demonstrating you’ve learned safe handling practices.
Concealed Carry Permits: Standard and Beyond
If you opt for a Missouri CCP, you’ll apply through your county sheriff. You must be at least 19 (or 18 military), pass a concealed carry training course, and meet all legal requirements (no felonies, not a danger to self or others, etc.). Missouri also offers extended and lifetime permits but note those may not be recognized outside the state.
Firearms Training Requirements
- Minimum 8 Hours of Instruction (or a combination of a 1-hour NRA course plus additional training)
- Live-Fire Practice (20 rounds minimum)
- Legal Aspects: Must learn relevant laws, self-defense statutes, and safe storage guidelines.
If you plan to travel, check CCW requirements by state to ensure you remain legal in other jurisdictions.
Restricted Locations and Off-Limits Places
Even with Missouri’s relatively broad concealed carry laws Missouri, certain areas remain off-limits:
- Schools: Primary, secondary, and post-secondary buildings (unless you have express permission).
- Child-Care Facilities: No concealed carry unless authorized.
- Courthouses: Courtrooms and facilities, with few exceptions.
- Polls on Election Day: Within 25 feet of a polling place is generally prohibited.
- Bars and the Bar Section of Restaurants: Off-limits unless the management explicitly consents.
- Private Property: If posted with “No Weapons” signs, refusing to leave can result in legal consequences.
When in doubt, always confirm with posted signage or property owners. Missouri law does not criminalize entering a posted location per se, but if you refuse to leave once asked, you could face trespassing charges.
Self-Defense and “Stand Your Ground”
Under concealed carry laws Missouri, you have no duty to retreat if you face a threat in a place where you are lawfully present. Missouri is both a Castle Doctrine and a “stand your ground” state, giving individuals strong legal standing to defend themselves, provided they are not the initial aggressor. However, lethal force is only justified if you reasonably believe such force is necessary to prevent death, serious injury, or a forcible felony.
If you would like more legal education information on self-defense laws and Second Amendment laws, you can visit our online firearms owner resources page here.
Traveling Across State Lines
If you plan to travel, you should be aware of CCW requirements by state. Missouri’s permit might be recognized in many places, but every jurisdiction has unique rules. Without a permit, your right to carry concealed likely ends at Missouri’s border (with some exceptions in permitless carry states). If you frequently cross state lines:
- Check Reciprocity: Where is your Missouri permit honored?
- Local Restrictions: Some states have stricter standards—be sure you comply.
Other Key Points to Know
- No Firearm Registration: Missouri does not require registration of handguns.
- Age Minimum for Possession: Must be 18 to possess or transport a handgun.
- Vehicle Carry: You can legally keep a loaded handgun in your car without a permit.
- Brandishing: Missouri has no specific “brandishing” definition, but displaying a weapon threateningly is unlawful.
- Knives: Generally, you may openly carry any knife, but concealed carry of certain knives can be restricted.
Why Pursue Training Even If It’s Not Required?
While permitless carry is legal, comprehensive concealed carry training offers immense benefits:
- Confidence and Proficiency: You learn safe handling, holstering, and marksmanship.
- Legal Understanding: Knowing state laws and potential liabilities prevents accidents or missteps.
- Strategic Readiness: Realistic training fosters situational awareness and responsible decision-making.
Conclusion - Policing the Brass
For those who value the freedom to protect themselves and their loved ones, concealed carry laws Missouri provide robust support. With permitless carry available to most citizens 19 and older, the path to concealed carry is more accessible than ever. Still, optional concealed carry permits can expand your travel options, and thorough concealed carry training ensures you’re prepared to act responsibly.
Whether you’re learning the rules for everyday peace of mind or checking CCW requirements by state for a cross-country trip, staying informed is your best defense. Remember to abide by local restrictions, respect private property rights, and never carry while impaired. Knowledge, respect for the law, and a commitment to safe firearm handling will help you enjoy your Second Amendment rights in the Show-Me State—and beyond.
If you would like a downloadable guide to Missouri’s gun laws, you can find one at HandgunLaw.us here.
Concealed Carry Laws Missouri: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? | Yes. There is no Missouri statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? | Missouri is a shall-issue state. County sheriffs issue Concealed Carry Permits (CCPs), but permitless carry is also allowed. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? | Yes. Anyone 19 years or older (18 for military/honorably discharged) who can legally possess a firearm may open carry. However, local governments can require a CCP for open carry. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? | Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal without a permit in Missouri. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? | No. Missouri law does not allow concealed carry of weapons other than handguns. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? | Yes. “Exploding bullets” (which detonate on impact) are prohibited. The minimum age for purchasing or possessing handgun ammo is 18. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? | No. Missouri does not have magazine capacity restrictions. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? | You must be at least 19 years old (or 18 if military/honorably discharged) to get a Missouri concealed carry permit. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? | Yes. Missouri is a permitless carry state, meaning no permit is needed if you are legally allowed to possess a firearm and are 19 or older (18 for military). However, local restrictions and off-limits areas still apply. |
Carry Location Questions
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? | Yes, in the restaurant area without explicit manager consent, unless posted. However, you cannot carry in the bar area without manager approval, and you must not be intoxicated. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? | Yes. Missouri allows the carrying of concealed handguns in state/national parks, forests, and WMAs. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? | Yes, Missouri allows concealed carry in vehicles without a permit. If on restricted premises, you may not remove or brandish the firearm while inside your vehicle. |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? | Private businesses, including hotels, may prohibit concealed firearms by posting signs at least 11″ x 14″ with letters at least 1″ high. Contact the hotel to confirm their policy. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? | Yes. You can carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Missouri. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? | Not specifically addressed by state law. Employers may have their own policies regarding firearms stored in employees’ vehicles in parking lots. |
Key State Laws
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? | No. The concealed carry registry is not available to the public. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? | No. You only need to disclose your concealed carry status if the officer specifically asks. |
| RED FLAG LAW? | No. Missouri does not have a red flag law. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? | No, unless you refuse to leave after being asked, at which point you could be charged with trespassing. |
| TRIBAL LAND | Carrying a firearm on tribal land depends on the tribe’s regulations. Always check with the specific tribal authority before entering. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? | Not while intoxicated. Carrying while under the influence can result in legal consequences. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? | Yes. Non-resident permits are available for active duty military or veterans (≥18) stationed in Missouri and their spouses (≥19 if residing in Missouri). |
| BRANDISHING? | No specific “brandishing” definition. However, unlawfully exhibiting a weapon in an angry or threatening manner in front of two or more people is a crime. |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? | Yes. Missouri uses a statewide database that can display your CCP on your driver’s license or non-driver ID. |
| PREEMPTION? | Yes. Missouri law generally preempts local ordinances regarding firearms. Counties/municipalities can regulate open/concealed carry in their buildings, require a CCP for open carry, and regulate firearm discharge. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| WAITING PERIOD? | No. There is no waiting period for purchasing a handgun in Missouri. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? | No. Having a Missouri CCP does not exempt you from the federal NICS check when buying a firearm. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? | No. Missouri does not require a permit to purchase a handgun. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? | No. Missouri does not mandate background checks for private sales, though federal prohibitions still apply. Retain receipts as proof of ownership. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? | 18. You must be at least 18 to possess or transport a handgun in Missouri. |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? | Yes. You can carry on property under your authority or control without a permit. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? | No. Missouri does not require handgun registration. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES MISSOURI HONOR? | Missouri honors valid out-of-state concealed carry permits from all states. Since permitless carry is in effect, any legally permitted individual (≥19, 18 for military) may carry concealed without a permit in Missouri. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH MISSOURI? | The following states honor Missouri permits (some with age or other conditions): • Alabama (permitless carry, ≥19) • Arkansas (permitless carry, ≥18) • Delaware • Idaho (permitless carry, ≥18) • Indiana (permitless carry, ≥18) • Montana (permitless carry, ≥18) • New Hampshire (permitless carry, ≥18) • North Carolina • North Dakota (permitless carry, ≥18) • South Dakota (permitless carry, ≥18) • Vermont (permitless carry, ≥18) |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH MISSOURI? | The following states accept Missouri permits with specific age or resident-only conditions (e.g., at least 21, resident-only, or permitless carry with limitations): • Alaska (≥21, permitless) • Arizona (≥21, permitless) • Colorado (resident only, ≥21) • Florida (≥21, permitless) • Georgia (≥21, permitless) • Iowa (≥21, permitless) • Kansas (≥21, permitless) • Kentucky (≥21, permitless) • Louisiana (≥21, permitless) • Maine (≥21, permitless) • Michigan (resident only, ≥21) • Mississippi (≥21, permitless) • Nebraska (≥21, permitless) • New Mexico (≥21) • Ohio (≥21, permitless) • Oklahoma (≥21, permitless) • Pennsylvania (≥21) • South Carolina (≥18, permitless) • Tennessee (≥18, permitless) • Texas (≥21, permitless) • Utah (≥21, permitless) • Virginia (≥21) • West Virginia (≥21, permitless) • Wisconsin (resident-only updated, ≥21) • Wyoming (≥21, permitless) |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? | Currently, these permitless (constitutional) carry states (with age requirements) include: • 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) • Mississippi (≥21) • 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 7 days of discovering the loss/damage, visit your sheriff’s office and file a written statement. A replacement will be issued within 3 days for a fee. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Permits typically last 5 years. 10- and 20-year extended permits and a lifetime permit are also available (though extended/lifetime may not be valid outside Missouri). |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | Applications are available through the Missouri county sheriff’s offices. Some counties, like Boone County, accept online applications as well. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT-CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes, but only for active-duty military or veterans (≥18) stationed in Missouri. Spouses (≥19) may also apply if they reside in the state. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF MISSOURI AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | Moving to Missouri: You can apply once you establish residency in a county. Moving from Missouri: Your permit becomes invalid once you establish residency in another state. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | New permits cost $93. Renewals cost $50. Late fees apply if you renew after the permit expires. A lifetime permit is $500, but only valid in Missouri. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | Sheriffs must issue or deny an application within 45 days of receiving it. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Notify the sheriff within 30 days if you change your name or move to a new county. Fees up to $10/month can apply for late notifications. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | Must be at least 19 (or 18 if military), a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, have completed firearms training, have no disqualifying criminal or mental health history, and meet federal law requirements. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1) Complete an 8-hour firearms safety course (or NRA 1-hour plus additional training). 2) Apply at your county sheriff’s office (or online where available). 3) Provide proof of residency and ID; pay the fee. 4) Get fingerprinted and await notification. |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | At least 8 hours total (or partial NRA online plus an in-person course) covering Missouri firearms law, use-of-force rules, safe handling, and live-fire practice with at least 20 rounds at 7 yards. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | You can renew as early as 6 months before expiration and up to 12 months after. After that, you must reapply. Submit a renewal form, pay $50, and late fees may apply if the permit has expired. |
| WHERE CAN CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Generally: In your vehicle, roadside rest areas, restaurant dining areas (not bar sections unless authorized), and state/national parks or forests. Local property owners can still post “no weapons” signs. |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Off-limits locations include K-12 schools, certain university buildings, law enforcement facilities, courthouses, polling stations (25 feet), posted private properties, hospitals, and anywhere prohibited by federal law. |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is unlawful to interfere with lawful hunting, fishing, or trapping. (§ 578.151 RSMo). |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, though the firearm cannot be used to take wildlife while deer hunting. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes, but the handgun cannot be used to harvest game in lieu of the bow. Bow hunting must adhere to archery-harvest rules. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | You may openly carry any type of knife. For concealed carry, you’re generally limited to folding pocketknives under 4 inches. Larger knives can only be carried openly or in places not off-limits to firearms. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Yes. There is no known statute prohibiting wearing a COVID-19 protective mask while legally carrying concealed. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | LEOs and RLEOs may qualify under LEOSA (HR 218) to carry nationwide. Missouri requires qualification through the original agency. RLEOs from out-of-state should verify if MO agencies can provide LEOSA 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.
