Introduction to Concealed Carry Laws Minnesota
If you’ve been searching for comprehensive insights into concealed carry laws Minnesota, you’ve landed on the right page. Whether you’re brand new to firearms or a seasoned gun owner, staying up to date on the latest regulations is crucial. Minnesota has historically followed a shall-issue policy, but recent rulings expanded permit eligibility to responsible adults aged 18 and over.
In this article, we’ll explore Minnesota’s approach to concealed carry—covering everything from self-defense provisions, reciprocity with other states, and concealed carry training requirements, right through to a look at how Minnesota handles local preemption. By the end, you’ll have a clear path to confidently carrying your firearm within the Gopher State.
Table of Contents
Understanding Minnesota’s Permit to Carry
Under concealed carry laws Minnesota, the state issues what’s officially called a Permit to Carry a Pistol (PCP). It allows both open and concealed carry in most public spaces, although there are specific locations where firearms remain off-limits. Here are the essentials:
Shall-Issue State
- Minnesota’s sheriff’s offices generally issue PCPs to qualified applicants. A sheriff may deny a permit only if there is a strong likelihood that the person poses a danger to self or others.
Age Restrictions
- Historically, you had to be at least 21 to apply. However, in July 2024, the Eighth Circuit Court struck down that age restriction, so now responsible adults 18 and over can obtain a PCP.
Residency Requirements
- Both residents and non-residents may apply. Non-residents can visit any Minnesota county sheriff’s office, while residents usually file at the office in their county of residence.
Permit Validity
- A PCP is valid for five years, authorizing unlimited handgun purchases during that period.
Preemption
- Minnesota preempts local gun laws, which means state law generally overrides municipal ordinances relating to firearms. Localities may still regulate firearm discharge, but not possession.
Concealed Carry Training and Application Process
A core aspect of CCW requirements by state is firearm training. Minnesota is no different.
Concealed Carry Training
- Classroom & Range Time
- State law requires a course with both classroom instruction and live-fire qualification. You’ll learn about gun safety, state statutes, and the responsible use of force.
- Legal Aspects
- The training covers important legal ground: how self-defense laws work, duty to retreat, and the restrictions on using deadly force.
How to Apply
- Complete Your Training
- Must be within a year of applying; your instructor must be state-approved.
- Gather Required Documents
- Include your application form, proof of training, and a photocopy of your driver’s license or state ID.
- Submit in Person
- Residents apply at the sheriff’s office of their county; non-residents may apply at any county sheriff’s office.
- Fees & Processing
- Application fees vary by county but will not exceed $100 for a new permit. The Sheriff’s office typically has up to 30 days (sometimes extending to six weeks) to process your request.
Where You Can Carry in Minnesota
According to concealed carry laws Minnesota, if you have a valid PCP, you can generally carry in:
- Bars and Restaurants: Legal unless specifically posted and you’re not under the influence.
- Vehicles: Handguns must be unloaded and cased if you do not have a PCP. With a permit, you may carry loaded in your vehicle.
- State/National Parks and WMAs: Allowed with a permit, except in specifically restricted Wildlife Management Areas like Bayport, Hastings, and Raguet WMAs.
Locations Off-Limits
- Schools and School Buses
- State Hospitals, Correctional Facilities
- Private Property with “No Guns” Signs
- Places of Employment if Employer Prohibits Firearms
- Child Care Centers (When Children are Present)
- Any Federal Gun-Free Zones
Pro Tip: Always pay attention to posted signs. While “No Weapons” signs aren’t criminally enforced in some states, Minnesota treats refusal to leave as a petty misdemeanor if a property has legally conspicuous signage.
Self-Defense Laws and Duty to Retreat
Unlike some other states, Minnesota enforces a limited duty to retreat if you can do so safely. Even though it doesn’t have a “Stand Your Ground” or “Castle Doctrine” statute in name, you still have the right to use deadly force if you genuinely believe you or someone else is facing great bodily harm, death, or a felony in your own home. Make sure you fully understand how this duty to retreat affects your decision-making. When in doubt, consult with a legal professional or enroll in advanced concealed carry training courses.
For general legal educational materials on self-defense laws and Second Amendment laws, visit our online resources page for more information.
Reciprocity: Minnesota and Beyond
Many Minnesotans travel for work or leisure, so it’s vital to learn about CCW requirements by state. Minnesota honors permits from several states that have regulations similar to its own, including:
- Alaska
- California
- Connecticut
- Hawaii
- Idaho (Enhanced)
- Illinois
- …and more.
However, not all states automatically honor Minnesota permits. If you plan to travel, verify the specific carry laws in your destination and any states en route. Remember, you must follow each state’s legal standards for firearms possession and carry.
Special Considerations
Red Flag Law
Starting January 1, 2024, Minnesota’s red flag law allows certain parties to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from someone deemed a risk to self or others.
Driver’s License Linked to Permit
Minnesota links your driver’s license to your pistol carry permit, meaning law enforcement will likely know you’re a permit holder upon running your license plate.
Prohibited Conduct
It’s illegal to carry a firearm while under the influence of drugs or alcohol (BAC of 0.04 or higher).
Brandishing
Minnesota does not specifically define brandishing, but pointing a firearm or handling it recklessly is a criminal act.
Knives, Tasers & Pepper Spray
Tasers and stun guns are legal if you pass a background check and follow labeling guidelines. Pepper spray is also legal within certain usage limits, and only switchblades are outright banned under Minnesota knife laws.
Conclusion - Policing the Brass
Navigating concealed carry laws Minnesota can be simple once you understand the state’s shall-issue nature, the role of local sheriffs, and the importance of thorough concealed carry training. Though Minnesota recognizes the right to self-defense, it also maintains a duty to retreat in public. Always stay aware of posted signs, respect private property rights, and refrain from carrying under the influence. If you’re looking to head out of state, be sure you’re in compliance with CCW requirements by state across the country.
Stay safe, stay informed, and always remember that responsible carry begins with knowledge and preparation. If you’d like a downloadable guide to concealed carry laws Minnesota, you can visit HandgunLaw.us for their PDF guide.
Concealed Carry Laws Minnesota: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? | Yes. Under Minnesota law, an individual may possess and use an authorized tear gas compound (including oleoresin capsicum) propelled from an aerosol container, as long as it is used in lawful self-defense. However, no one under 16 may possess or use these compounds without written permission from a parent or guardian. |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? | Minnesota is a shall-issue state. A sheriff may only deny a permit if there is a substantial likelihood the applicant would be a danger to themselves or others. Licenses are issued at the county level. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? | Yes. Open carry is legal but only with a valid Minnesota license to carry or a permit from a state Minnesota recognizes. |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? | Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit, but require a background check. Their use must be in accordance with reasonable force in defense of person or property, and they must have clear instructions about use and potential dangers. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? | No. A concealed carry permit in Minnesota does not allow you to carry weapons other than firearms. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? | Yes. Metal-penetrating bullets are prohibited from use during the commission of a crime. Otherwise, there are no specific ammunition restrictions for general ownership. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? | No. There are no magazine capacity restrictions for handguns in Minnesota. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? | You must be at least 21 years old to get a Minnesota Permit to Carry a Pistol. However, in July 2024, the Eighth Circuit Court struck down the prohibition on 18-20 year olds obtaining a Permit to Carry a Pistol. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? | No. Minnesota does not allow constitutional carry. A permit is required to carry a handgun, either openly or concealed. |
Carry Location Questions
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? | Yes. Minnesota law does not prohibit carrying in bars or restaurants unless posted “No Guns.” You must also not be under the influence, defined as a blood alcohol level > 0.04. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? | Yes, with a valid Minnesota permit or a permit from a state Minnesota recognizes. Exceptions include the Bayport WMA in Washington County, the Hastings WMA in Dakota County, and the Raguet WMA in Scott/Carver Counties, where firearms are prohibited. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? | Yes, if you have a valid Minnesota permit to carry or a permit from a state Minnesota recognizes. Without a permit, the firearm must be unloaded and secured in a closed case or trunk. |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? | Hotels (innkeepers) in Minnesota may refuse service to a person believed to be bringing firearms onto the property. Each hotel may set its own policy, so you should inquire directly for details. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? | Yes. A loaded handgun may be carried at a roadside rest area only if you have a Minnesota license to carry or a permit from a state Minnesota recognizes. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? | Employers and postsecondary institutions cannot prohibit lawful carry or possession of firearms in parking facilities or parking areas. |
Key State Laws
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? | No. This information is not available to the general public but is accessible to law enforcement. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? | No. There is no legal requirement to disclose that you are carrying a concealed firearm unless an officer specifically asks. |
| RED FLAG LAW? | Yes. A red flag law goes into effect on January 1, 2024, allowing certain parties to petition the court to remove firearms from someone deemed a risk. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? | No. Violating a posted “No Guns” sign is considered a petty misdemeanor only if you refuse to leave after being asked. |
| TRIBAL LAND | Several tribes in Minnesota, such as the Fond du Lac Band, Prairie Island Indian Community, and Red Lake Band, do not allow firearms on their land. Always check specific tribal regulations. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? | Minnesota prohibits carrying while under the influence of alcohol (BAC ≥ 0.04) or controlled substances. It is also illegal to carry if under the influence of any intoxicating substance known to impair judgment. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? | Yes. Non-residents can apply at any Minnesota county sheriff’s office following the same process as residents. |
| BRANDISHING? | Minnesota law does not define “brandishing” specifically, but recklessly handling or pointing a firearm (loaded or unloaded) at another is a crime. |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? | Yes. A Minnesota driver’s license is linked to the Minnesota pistol carry permit. |
| PREEMPTION? | Yes. Minnesota law preempts local firearm ordinances (cities and towns generally cannot regulate gun possession). Localities can regulate the discharge of firearms. |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| WAITING PERIOD? | No waiting period if you have a Permit to Purchase/Transfer or a Permit to Carry. Otherwise, upon buying from an FFL, there is a 5- to 7-day wait for background checks unless waived by a chief of police or sheriff. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? | No. A current Minnesota permit to carry does not exempt you from needing a background check for firearm purchases. (In other words, the out-of-state permit doesn’t exempt the buyer.) |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? | Yes. You need either a Minnesota Permit to Carry or a Permit to Purchase/Transfer for handgun acquisitions. Each is valid for multiple transactions within its timeframe. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? | Yes. Effective August 1, 2023, both parties must fill out a record of transfer. Local authorities have 30 days to process it. A sheriff or police chief may deny the application, and denials can be appealed within 20 days. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? | 18 years old. Generally, individuals under 18 may not possess a handgun unless under supervised exceptions like certain hunting or sports activities. |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? | Yes. A permit is not required for lawful firearm possession in your home, place of business, or on your own land. Landlords cannot ban tenants or their guests from possessing firearms lawfully. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? | No. Minnesota does not require handguns to be registered. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES MINNESOTA HONOR? | Minnesota honors permits from the following states: Alaska, California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho (Enhanced), Illinois, Kansas (Standard), Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana (Enhanced), Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota (Class 1), Ohio, Rhode Island, South Dakota (Enhanced, ≥21), and West Virginia (≥21, regular permit). Minimum age requirement to carry in Minnesota is 21. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH MINNESOTA? | The following states honor a Minnesota permit: Alabama (permitless, ≥19), Arkansas (permitless, ≥18), Idaho (permitless, ≥18), Indiana (permitless, ≥18), Montana (permitless, ≥18), Nevada, New Hampshire (permitless, ≥18), North Carolina, North Dakota (permitless, ≥18), South Dakota (permitless, ≥18), Vermont (permitless, ≥18), Virginia, and Wisconsin. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH MINNESOTA? | These states only honor Minnesota resident permits (or have other permitless carry conditions): Alaska (≥21), Arizona (≥21), Florida (≥21), Georgia (≥21), Iowa (≥21), Kansas (≥21), Kentucky (≥21), Louisiana (≥21), Maine (≥21), Michigan (≥21; resident permits only), Mississippi (≥21), Missouri (≥19, 18 for military), Nebraska (≥21), Ohio (≥21), Oklahoma (≥21), South Carolina (≥18), Tennessee (≥18), Texas (≥21), Utah (≥21), West Virginia (≥21), and Wyoming (≥21). |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? | The following states have permitless carry laws (with specified minimum ages in parentheses): 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), Missouri (19, 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? | Notify the issuing sheriff’s office within 30 days. You must provide a notarized statement explaining the loss or destruction. The replacement fee is $10. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Permits in Minnesota are valid for 5 years. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | The application can be downloaded from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website or obtained at your county sheriff’s office. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes. Non-residents may apply at any Minnesota county sheriff’s office. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF MINNESOTA AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you move into Minnesota, you may apply for a resident permit at any time (requiring possible proof of Minnesota ID). If you move out of Minnesota, your permit remains valid until its expiration, provided you submit a name/address change form. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | New permits can cost up to $100 as set by the county sheriff. Renewals (applied before expiration) can cost up to $75. Late renewals incur a $10 penalty within 30 days after expiration. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | By statute, sheriffs generally have 30 days to process the application, though it can extend to about 6 weeks. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | You must notify the issuing sheriff’s office within 30 days of the change. You may obtain an updated permit for $10. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | An applicant must be at least 18, not prohibited under state law, complete authorized training, and be a resident of Minnesota (or apply as a non-resident). Individuals must meet federal requirements and not be part of a criminal gang investigation system. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1) Complete authorized firearm training within one year of applying. 2) Download or pick up the application from a county sheriff’s office. 3) Provide the application, training certificate, and ID to the sheriff’s office. 4) Pay the required fee. 5) Await approval or denial (within 30 days to 6 weeks). |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Training must include the fundamentals of pistol use, a shooting qualification, and the legal aspects of carrying a handgun. The course must be completed within 1 year of application. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | 1) Permit holders can renew up to 90 days before expiration. 2) Complete refresher training within 1 year of renewal. 3) Submit the renewal application, training proof, and fee in person. 4) If approved, a new permit is issued; if late (within 30 days after expiration), an additional $10 fee is charged. |
| WHERE CAN CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | With a valid permit, you may carry in most places not explicitly restricted, including restaurants that serve alcohol (if not posted), vehicles, roadside rest areas, state parks, forest recreation areas, and certain WMAs (excluding the Bayport, Hastings, and Raguet WMAs). |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Off-limits areas include K-12 schools, state hospitals, correctional facilities, posted private property, child care centers when children are present, and any place prohibited by federal law (e.g., certain federal buildings). Employers can also restrict employees from carrying at work. Places of worship may ban firearms, and tribal lands may have additional prohibitions. |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It is illegal to intentionally disrupt or interfere with someone who is lawfully taking, or preparing to take, a wild animal. This includes interfering with camping, travel, or other lawful hunting preparation. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes, you may carry concealed with a valid Minnesota license or one from a state Minnesota recognizes. The only exception is carrying while “shining” (spotlighting animals at night), which is prohibited. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes, provided you have a valid Minnesota license to carry or a permit from a state Minnesota recognizes. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | Switchblades are prohibited. Utility knives are legal, and knives used as weapons are legal if there is no intent to harm. Dangerous weapons are banned in schools, school buses, courthouses, and State Capitol buildings. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Yes. Minnesota law prohibits wearing a mask with the intent to conceal identity for illegal purposes. Wearing a mask for health reasons (e.g., COVID-19 prevention) is permissible while carrying. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S (LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Yes. Minnesota abides by LEOSA (HR 218), which allows qualified current and retired officers to carry nationwide with certain exceptions. Retired officers must maintain annual firearms qualification through a certified program. |
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.
