As a responsibly armed American, you already know how challenging it can be to stay up to date on constantly changing gun laws…
Missouri 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 Missouri gun laws.
Can Non-Residents Carry a Gun in Missouri?
Open carry and 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. are legal in Missouri for anyone 19 years or older who can legally possess a firearm, with or without a Concealed Carry Permit (CCP). However, local authorities can restrict concealed carry in any building owned, leased or controlled by the county or municipality and may require a CCP for open carry. Missouri law does not plainly state you don’t need a permit to carry. They changed the definition of “unlawful use of a weapon” to only apply when a person carries a weapon into a place that is off-limits per Missouri law.
Can I Carry a Loaded Gun in My Car in Missouri?
Yes, any person who is at least 19 years of age and not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm can transport a concealable firearm in the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle without a permit. The firearm must not be removed from the vehicle or brandishedMany states have their own definitions and may refer to brandishing as “Defensive Display,” “Improper Exhibition of a Weapon” or “Unlawful Display.” Actions from resting your hand on the grip of your pistol or knife or sweeping your cover garment aside to exposing your concealed carry weapon may be considered brandishing. while the vehicle is on restricted premises. Restricted premises are locations where concealed carry is not allowed in the state of Missouri.
Is It Legal to Conceal Carry in Missouri Without a Permit?
Open carry and concealed carry are legal in Missouri for anyone 19 years or older who can legally possess a firearm, with or without a concealed carry permit (CCP).However, local authorities can restrict concealed carry in any building owned, leased or controlled by the county or municipality and may require a CCP for open carry.
Is Missouri a ‘Stand Your Ground’ State?
Yes. Missouri has Castle DoctrineCastle DoctrineCastle Doctrine is the concept that an individual has a right to be safe and secure within his or her own home or “castle” and should not have to retreat from his or her home to be safe. laws and became the 25th state to adopt the “stand your ground” canon. It empowers gun owners to defend themselves outside of their homes or properties. They are not required to retreat, wherever they may lawfully be, prior to using deadly force. The law also prohibits political subdivisions to preclude the use of firearms to defend people or property.
Is There a Waiting Period to Buy a Handgun in Missouri?
No. There is no waiting period to purchase a gun in Missouri. However, when purchasing a firearm from a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer, a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS)National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS): Operated by the FBI, the NICS (National Instant Criminal Background Check System) was developed with the ATF and state and local law enforcement agencies. It is used to verify that a person buying a firearm does not have a criminal record or isn’t otherwise ineligible to purchase or own a firearm. check must be performed. NICS checks can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few days. If a determination is not obtained within three business days, then the transfer may legally be completed.
Can You Conceal Carry in a Bar in Missouri?
No, you cannot carry in bars (except the businesses’ owners) without the consent of the owner or manager. However, you can carry in a bar with a restaurant in the restaurant area only — but not if posted, and provided you are not intoxicated.
As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgment, slow your reaction times or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.
Does Missouri Require a Background Check to Buy a Gun? How Long Does It Take to Do a Background Check?
Missouri does not require background checks for private gun sales. However, Federal law requires federally licensed firearm dealers (FFLs) to initiate a background check on the purchaser prior to the sale of a firearm. NICS checks can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few days. If a determination is not obtained within three business days, then the transfer may legally be completed.
Ready to Learn More About Missouri 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 Missouri’s concealed carry permit application process, concealed carry restrictions and training requirements, visit the Missouri gun laws page now…
Additionally, continued training is crucial to protecting your family. Find a gun range in Missouri through our “Find a Gun Range” resource — made possible by our partnership with the NSSF and WhereToShoot.org.
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, and laws are constantly changing, and as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer.
