As a responsibly armed American, you already know how challenging it can be to stay up to date on gun laws…

Massachusetts gun owners, you’re in luck. We’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked firearms questions in your state. Read on for answers to some of the top questions regarding Massachusetts gun laws. (Not from Massachusetts? Check the Legal & Second Amendment tab to find your state!)

Are Guns Allowed in Massachusetts?

Yes. Massachusetts is a may-issueMay Issue means applicants must pass basic requirements, and the issuing authority (county sheriff, police department, etc.) is allowed to use its own discretion in either issuing or denying a permit. state, with Licenses to Carry (LTC) issued at the local police station or, for non-residents, through the State Police Firearms Records Bureau. A Firearm Identification (FID) card or LTC is required to purchase a firearm. Background checks are required to buy a handgun from a private individual, as the seller must verify the buyer’s FID with the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services. An LTC is also required to buy ammunition.

Can You Carry a Concealed Weapon in Massachusetts?

Yes, concealed carryConcealed Carry is the practice of carrying a concealed weapon on one’s person in public. Concealed firearms can be carried on a person’s body, typically in a holster, or off body in a purse, backpack or other specialized concealment accessories and garments. is legal in Massachusetts only for individuals who have a valid, previously issued Massachusetts Class A LTC or a current LTC. Open carry of non-large capacity firearms is legal  for individuals who have a current LTC or a previously issued Massachusetts Class B LTC, which are valid until the expiration date. The minimum age is 21 years old, and licenses are issued to residents and non-residents and require a state-approved firearms training course. Some areas are off-limits, including schools and airports. In terms of reciprocity, Massachusetts does not honor permits from any other states.

Is It Legal to Open Carry in Massachusetts?

Yes. Although uncommon, open carry of non-large capacity firearms is legal  for individuals who have a current LTC or a previously issued Massachusetts Class B LTC, which are valid until the expiration date.

Can You Carry a Gun Into a Bank in Massachusetts?

Yes. There is no statute in Massachusetts law that prohibits a Massachusetts license holder from carrying a concealed handgun into a bank.

Do You Have to Register a Gun in Massachusetts?

Yes/No. Although the registration of handguns isn’t required, all sellers of firearms must report firearms sales and transfers to the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services, which maintains comprehensive records of sales and transfers.

Where Can I Carry a Gun in Massachusetts?

Individuals who have a Massachusetts LTC or a formerly issued, valid Class A LTC are allowed to open and concealed carry in most places in Massachusetts. Locations where permit holders are not allowed to carry handguns include the following:

  • Elementary or secondary schools, colleges or universities;
  • Courthouses;
  • Airports;
  • Logan Airport security zone;
  • When using an off-highway vehicle such as snowmobile; and
  • Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation.

It is illegal to be in possession of a loaded rifle or shotgun on any public way, regardless of whether the possessor has a Firearm Identification Card (FID) or LTC.

Can You Carry a Gun in Your Car in Massachusetts?

Yes/No. Only a person with a Massachusetts LTC or a formerly issued, valid Class A LTC may carry a loaded handgun or short-barreled firearm in a vehicle, provided the weapon is under the license holder’s direct control. For holders of previously issued, valid Massachusetts Class B LTCs, a handgun must be unloaded and secured in a locked trunk or locked container. Without an LTC, it is illegal to knowingly possess or control a firearm in a vehicle, whether loaded or unloaded, unless the possessor is at his or her residence or place of business or possesses the proper card or license for the firearm possessed.

Ready to Learn More About Massachusetts Gun Laws?

It is your responsibility as a gun owner to know and understand the laws regarding your concealed carry rights. The USCCA’s Concealed Carry Reciprocity & Gun Laws Map has been designed to help inform and educate armed citizens like you. To learn more about Massachusetts’s concealed carry permit application process, concealed carry restrictions and training requirements, visit the Massachusetts gun laws page now…

The information contained on this website is provided as a service to USCCA, Inc. members and the concealed carry community and does not constitute legal advice. Although we attempt to address all areas of concealed carry laws in all states, we make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information disclosed. Legal advice must always be tailored to the individual facts and circumstances of each individual case. Laws are constantly changing, and, as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer.