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

New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire gun laws. (Not from New Hampshire? Check the Legal & Second Amendment tab for your state.)

Can You Have a Loaded Gun in Your Car in New Hampshire?

Yes, anyone at least 18 years old and not otherwise prohibited by statute from possessing a firearm can carry a loaded handgun in a vehicle without a permit. However, the carrying of loaded rifles or shotguns in a moving motor vehicle is prohibited unless the individual is in the act of protecting his or her livestock or crops.

Can You Carry a Gun as a Non-Resident in New Hampshire?

Yes. New Hampshire is a constitutional carry state. Anyone at least 18 years old and not otherwise prohibited by statute from possessing a firearm can carry a handgun openly or concealed without a permit.

Can You Carry a Gun in a Bar in New Hampshire?

Yes, there is no statute prohibiting carrying firearms in restaurants or bars. However, private establishments may be posted with signs prohibiting firearms.

Is New Hampshire a Stand Your Ground State?

Yes. New Hampshire is a Castle Doctrine state and has a “stand your ground” law. A person has no duty to retreat if he or she is within his or her dwelling, its curtilage (immediate property) or anywhere he or she has a right to be. That is as long as the person was not the initial aggressor.

Do You Need a Background Check to Buy a Gun in New Hampshire? Is There a Waiting Period to Buy a Gun in New Hampshire?

No. There is no permit, background check or firearms registration required to buy a handgun from a private individual in New Hampshire. In addition, there is no mandatory waiting period when purchasing a handgun. However, background checks are required when purchasing a firearm from a dealer.

Do You Need a License to Own a Gun in New Hampshire?

No. No license is required in order to purchase or own a firearm in New Hampshire.

Where Can I Carry a Gun in New Hampshire?

There are only a few places where open and/or concealed carry of firearms are prohibited in New Hampshire. They include:

  • Courtrooms or areas used by a court
  • Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation

Additionally, while on an off-highway recreational vehicle/snowmobile or trailer towed by an off-highway recreational vehicle/snowmobile, firearms must be unloaded.

Ready to Learn More About New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire’s concealed carry permit application process, concealed carry restrictions and training requirements, visit the New Hampshire 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.