Massachusetts State Seal

Massachusetts Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

Carry allowed with my Massachusetts permit?
No
Yes
Yes, Selected State(s)

Have concealed carry permits from more than one state?

Check out our new Multi-State Permit Tool here!

470k
Licenses Issued
0
STATES HONORED
27
RECIPROCATING STATES
6.9M
STATE POPULATION
21
MINIMUM AGE TO CC
14
ATTORNEYS IN USCCA NETWORK
6.8%
License PERCENTAGE
6
YEARS License VALID
67
USCCA CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS

NEED ANSWERS NOW?

There’s a lot of information here, so our Customer Engagement Team is always ready to help:
Click to chat with someone on our team now.

Summary of Massachusetts Gun Laws

Massachusetts is now a shall-issue state since the Supreme Court’s ruling on the NYSRPA v Bruen case on June 23rd, 2022. Licenses to Carry (LTC) are 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 Firearm Identification Card with the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services. A LTC is also required to buy ammunition. 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. 

The former Class B license allows for only the open carry of non-large capacity firearms. Due to revisions to licensure, there may be Class B licenses that are still valid, however, no new Class B licenses are being issued. 

Concealed carry is legal in Massachusetts for individuals who have a Massachusetts LTC or a formerly issued, valid Class A LTC. The minimum age is 21 years old, and LTCs are issued to residents and non-residents. LTCs 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.

Self-Defense

Massachusetts is a Castle Doctrine state. Massachusetts law states that, in the prosecution of a person who is an occupant of a dwelling charged with killing or injuring one who was unlawfully in the dwelling, it is a defense that the occupant was in one’s dwelling at the time of the offense and that he or she acted in the reasonable belief that the person unlawfully in the dwelling was about to inflict great bodily injury or death upon the occupant, and that the occupant used reasonable means to defend himself or herself or another person lawfully in the dwelling. There is no duty to retreat in a person’s dwelling, although there is a duty to retreat outside of one’s home.

“Dwelling” is defined as a building that’s a permanent or temporary residence, which means that tents, motor homes and boats may not qualify as a dwelling where the doctrine would apply. It’s also important to be aware that common areas of buildings, like hallways, don’t fall under the castle doctrine.

[Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 278 §8A and ch. 231 § 85U]

Massachusetts Gun Laws at a Glance

Carry Basics

Constitutional Carry?

Does Massachusetts allow constitutional carry?

No. Massachusetts does not allow constitutional carry.

Open Carry Permitted?

Is open carry permitted in Massachusetts?

Yes, with a license. However, it is uncommon and there have been reports that some jurisdictions will use this as grounds to revoke licenses or to charge you with another type of offense (i.e. menacing).

Gun Permit Licensure?

If Massachusetts requires a license to carry a concealed firearm, how are those licenses issued?

Massachusetts is now a shall issue state.

Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?

What is the minimum age in Massachusetts to get a concealed carry license?

You must be at least 21 years old to get a LTC in Massachusetts.

Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?

Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Massachusetts with a concealed carry license (or under permitless carry if applicable)?

Yes. Stun guns may be carried in Massachusetts with a LTC. In addition, an LTC allows the license holder to purchase, rent, lease, borrow, possess and carry: firearms, including large capacity firearms, and feeding devices and ammunition therefor, for all lawful purposes.

Tasers or Stun Guns?

Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Massachusetts?

Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal with a LTC, as long as they are in a shape that resembles a gun (not “covert” electronic weapons that resemble other objects like pens). In order to purchase, a copy of a resident firearms license, state ID and a MA Basic Firearms Safety Course certificate are required and a background check will be conducted. 

[Session Law Chapter 123 (2018)]

Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?

Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Massachusetts?

Yes, chemical mace or pepper spray can be carried without an LTC. It can only be sold by Federal Firearm Licensees. Section 122D identifies individuals who are prohibited from purchase or possession of self-defense spray, including minors and individuals that are under a permanent or temporary protection order or are currently the subject of an outstanding arrest warrant. 

[Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 140, §§ 122C and 122D]

MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS?

Does Massachusetts have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?

No more than 10 rounds.

It is illegal to sell, offer for sale, transfer or possess an assault weapon or a large capacity feeding device that was not otherwise lawfully possessed on September 13, 1994. ''Large capacity feeding device'' means a fixed or detachable magazine, box, drum, feed strip or similar device capable of accepting, or that can be readily converted to accept, more than ten rounds of ammunition. There is an exemption for law enforcement officers (LEOs) and retired LEOs.

[Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 140, §§ 121131M]

AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS?

Does Massachusetts have ammunition restrictions?

Yes. Any person with a license to carry is permitted to purchase, possess and carry all types of lawful ammunition. The minimum age to purchase handgun ammunition is 21 years old.

Puzzled by Reciprocity Laws?

Use the NEW Reciprocity by USCCA App!

  • Featuring a personalized reciprocity map
  • The most complete, up-to-date information for all state gun laws
  • 24/7 customer support. If you still have questions, we’ll help find the answer.

Download the app now – it’s FREE!

Carry Locations

Carry in Vehicle?

Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Massachusetts?

Yes, with a LTC, provided the weapon is under the license holder's direct control. Without a 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.

[Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 140, § 131C]

Carry at Roadside Rest Areas?

Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Massachusetts?

Yes, with a LTC.

Carry in State/National Parks, State/National Forests and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)?

Can you carry a concealed concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in Massachusetts?

Carry in Bars/Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?

Can you carry a firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Massachusetts?

Yes, there is no statute making it illegal to concealed carry with a MA LTC, unless posted.

Carry/Possess at a hotel?

Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts statutes don't specifically address firearms at hotels. Please note that each hotel develops their own policies and the individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about it's concealed carry policy. See the Handguns at Hotels page for additional information.

Store in a Vehicle in an Employee Parking Lot?

Does Massachusetts have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?

Not addressed in Massachusetts state law, although employers may have a policy.
 

Key State Laws

Duty to Inform Officer You're Carrying?

Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Massachusetts?

No. There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Massachusetts.

[Mass. Ann. Laws ch. 106, § 129C(u)]

DRIVER'S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT?

Is my Massachusetts driver’s license linked to my Massachusetts carry permit?

Yes. Any time law enforcement runs a driver's license or vehicle registration, if the individual has a firearms license it will be indicated, along with a list of registered firearms. 

 

"NO WEAPONS ALLOWED" SIGNS ENFORCED?

Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Massachusetts? If yes, violating the sign would be considered to be a crime. If no, violating the sign would not be considered a criminal offense.

No. “No Firearm” signs in Massachusetts do not have the force of law unless they are posted on property that is specifically mentioned in State law as being off limits to those with a permit/license to carry.

Preemption?

Does Massachusetts have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e. Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?

No. Massachusetts does not have preemption laws.

[Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 43B, § 13]

Red Flag Law?

Does Massachusetts have a red flag law?

Yes, Massachusetts has a red flag law. An immediate family member of a person or a law enforcement officer may file a petition ordering the immediate suspension and surrender of any license to carry firearms or firearm identification card which the respondent may hold, as well as order the respondent to surrender all firearms, rifles, shotguns, machine guns, weapons or ammunition which the respondent then controls, owns or possesses.

[Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 131J thru 131Y]

Brandishing?

Does Massachusetts state law define brandishing?

No definition of brandishing was found in Massachusetts law. However, any person who, with a dangerous weapon, attempts to use physical force against someone or shows an intention to use immediate force against someone is guilty of assault with a dangerous weapon.

[Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 265 § 15B(b)]

Carry While Using Alcohol or Drugs?

Does Massachusetts have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or drugs?

Not while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or marijuana, narcotic drugs, depressants or stimulant substances, all as defined in ch. 94C, § 1, or from smelling or inhaling the fumes of any substance having the property of releasing toxic vapors as defined in ch. 270, § 18.

[Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 269, § 10H]

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 judgement, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.

NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING?

Does Massachusetts issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?

Yes. Massachusetts grants licenses to non-residents.

PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY?

Does Massachusetts allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?

No. Massachusetts does not allow public access to concealed carry registry information.

Handgun Purchase & Possession

Purchase Permits?

Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Massachusetts?

Yes. A Firearm Identification (FID) card or LTC is required to purchase a firearm. See the Permit Application Process below.

Background Checks for Private Gun Sales?

Are background checks required for private gun sales in Massachusetts?

Yes. Private sellers of firearms must conduct a real-time check of the validity of the purchaser’s Firearms Identification Card. The MA Gun Transaction Portal must be used to make transfers

[Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 140 Sect 128A]

Massachusetts license Exempts from Background Check?

Does my current Massachusetts concealed carry license exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?

No.

Waiting Period?

Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Massachusetts?

No. However, a FID or LTC is required in order to make a purchase, and these may take up to 60 days to process.

Handgun Registration?

Do handguns need to be registered in Massachusetts?

No. However, transfers of firearms ownership are required to be recorded with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS).

Approved Handgun Roster?

Does Massachusetts have a roster of handguns approved for retail sale?

Yes. Massachusetts has an approved firearms roster that contains firearms that meet detailed safety standards and have been approved by the Secretary of Public Safety and Security. Licensed firearms dealers may only sell handguns from this list at retail. There are exceptions for handguns lawfully owned before October 21, 1998, and some handguns solely designed and sold for formal target or Olympic shooting competition.

Approved firearms rosters

[Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 140, § 123]

Minimum Age to Possess and Transport?

What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Massachusetts?

21 years old and a FID is required. It shall be lawful to furnish a weapon to a minor for hunting, recreation, instruction and participation in shooting sports while under the supervision of a holder of a valid firearm identification card or license to carry appropriate for the weapon in use; provided, however, that the parent or guardian of the minor granted consent for such activities.

[Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 140, § 130 & 131(d)(iv)]

Possess a handgun on my private property without a license?

Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a license?

Yes. Anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm, may possess a firearm at the person’s residence or place of business without a license.

[Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 269, § 10(a)(1)0]

Related Blog Posts

No Post Found
Basic Concealed Carry Laws: Massachusetts

Basic Concealed Carry Laws: Massachusetts

USCCA — November 22, 2020

Have Questions? Contact Our Award-Winning, Wisconsin-Based Member Services Team 24/7 at 800-674-9779​


State Constitutional Provision
The people have a right to keep and bear arms for the common defense. And as, in time of peace, armies are dangerous to liberty, they ought not to be maintained without the consent of the legislature, and the military power shall always be held in an exact subordination to the civil authority, and be governed by it."
DECLARATION OF RIGHTS, ARTICLE 17

Massachusetts Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States

Which states' permits does Massachusetts honor?

Massachusetts does not honor any other states' permits.


Other States' Reciprocity With Massachusetts

Which states honor permits from Massachusetts?

Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Note: Firearms must be carried in accordance with the laws of the state you are visiting. Be sure to check the laws of the other state before traveling there with your firearms.


States That Have Restricted Reciprocity with Massachusetts

Massachusetts offers resident and non-resident licenses. If indicated with “Resident only” below, that state only honors Massachusetts resident permits (and not those issued to non-residents).

Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (resident permits only)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wisconsin (Class A permits only)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Permitless Carry States

Alaska PC-21
Arizona PC-21
Arkansas PC-18
Idaho PC-18
Indiana PC-18
Iowa PC-21
Kansas PC-21
Kentucky PC-21
Maine (permits recognized; see Maine Reciprocity section for details or PC-21)
Mississippi PC-18
MontanaPC-18
North DakotaPC-18 for residents only
Oklahoma PC-21
TexasPC-21
UtahPC-21
VermontPC-18
Wyoming PC-21

*PC-18 = permitless carry if at least 18 years old

*PC-21 = permitless carry if at least 21 years old

Permitless carry includes constitutional carry states as well as states where an individual must meet certain qualifications, e.g., no DUIs in the last 10 years, in order to legally carry (Tennessee). Each state determines the requirements and any limitations on the carry of firearms. Check each state’s page for more information and any restrictions that may apply.


Massachusetts Concealed Carry License Information

Requirements:

An applicant must:

  • Be at least 21 years old;
  • Be a U.S. citizen or legal alien;
  • Be a suitable person to be issued such license, and have good reason to fear injury to his or her person or property, or for any other reason, including the carrying of firearms for use in sport or target practice only;
  • Complete a firearms training course;
  • Not have been convicted or adjudicated a youthful offender or delinquent child;
  • Not have been committed to a hospital or institution for mental illness, alcohol or substance abuse, unless after 5 years the applicant submits an affidavit from a registered physician endorsing his or her ability to possess a firearm;
  • Not be subject to an order of the probate court appointing a guardian or conservator for an incapacitated person on the grounds that the applicant lacks the mental capacity to contract or manage the applicant’s affairs;
  • Not be subject to a temporary or emergency restraining order or order of protection;
  • Not have any outstanding warrants;
  • Not have been discharged from the armed forces of the United States under dishonorable conditions;
  • Not be a fugitive from justice; and
  • Meet federal law requirements.

*Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of Massachusetts.

Fees:

Initial License and Renewals $100

Valid For:

6 years

Processing Time:

40 days

Application:
Non-Resident Concealed Carry licenses:

The process is similar to that for residents, although an in-person appearance at the Firearms Records Bureau is necessary for first time applicants and then once every 6 years thereafter. Processing may take up to 90 days. You will still need to renew your LTC annually, however, the application will be processed solely by mail until the next required in-person appearance. Non-resident LTCs are valid for only 1 year. Non-residents are notified by mail when firearms license applications have been processed.

First time applicants must submit a copy of a certificate showing completion of a Massachusetts Basic Firearms Safety Course. This course must have been taken with an instructor who is certified by the Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police. 

Non-resident licenses can have restrictions placed on them depending on the information provided in your application. They include employment, target and hunting and “other” restrictions.

Link to Non-resident LTC application

Name/Address Changes:

Complete and mail a copy of the Change of Address Form to all of the following:

  • The licensing authority that issued your firearms license;
  • The Chief of Police of the city or town that you moved to; and
  • The Department of Criminal Justice Information Services.

There is also a Firearms License Address Change Hotline at (617) 660-4722.

Lost/Stolen licenses:

Contact your issuing authority.

Residency Changes:

Moving to Massachusetts and interested in applying for a resident license? How soon can you apply?
Massachusetts issues resident and non-resident licenses, so you can apply for your license at any time. You may need to provide proof that you reside in or have a place of business in the state for a resident license. 

Moving from Massachusetts and have a Massachusetts resident license? Does that license transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Massachusetts license remains valid?
If a person with a Massachusetts license to carry establishes residency in another state, the license is valid until it expires provided you submit the above referenced change of address form.

 


Massachusetts Concealed Carry License Application Process

How to Apply for a Massachusetts Concealed Carry License

Step 1:
Step 2:

Download the application.

Step 3:

Contact your local firearms licensing office for its specific requirements. Non-residents must apply in-person at the Firearms Records Bureau for first time applicants and then once every 6 years thereafter. You will likely need the following documents:

  • Completed application;
  • Firearms safety course certificate;
  • Fingerprint cards;
  • A form of ID;
  • Proof of residency, if required; and
  • Application fee.
Step 4:

You will be notified by your local licensing authority when your firearms license application has been processed, either by telephone or by mail. You may need to pick up your firearms license in person.

Class A and Class B Licenses
Class B LTCs were previously issued and allow for only the open carry of non-large capacity firearms.  Any current Class B LTCs will be valid until the expiration date.

Concealed carry is legal in Massachusetts only for individuals who have a valid, previously issued Massachusetts Class A LTC or a current LTC.

A license to carry entitles the possessor to purchase, possess, rent, borrow, lease and carry lawful firearms, including handguns and non-large capacity firearms for holders of Class B licenses or large capacity firearms for holders of current Class A or LTCs, and feeding devices and ammunition for these firearms.


Firearms Training Requirements in Massachusetts

Persons applying for a FID or LTC must successfully complete a basic firearms safety course. A course used as a prerequisite for a FID shall use rifles and/or shotguns as the primary subject matter of the curriculum. A course used as a prerequisite for an LTC shall use pistols and/or revolvers as the primary subject matter of the curriculum. Course curriculums that do not contain a firearms-related law component can meet Department of State Police curriculum criteria by utilizing guest speakers familiar with firearms laws or by utilizing or distributing to its students written informational pamphlets/books/videos by an entity/individual familiar with firearms laws to cover that portion of the course.

Exemptions -Training requirements do not apply to (i) any officer, agent or employee of the commonwealth or any state of the United States; (ii) any member of the military or other service of any state or of the United States; (iii) any duly authorized law enforcement officer, agent or employee of any municipality of the commonwealth; provided, however, that any such person described in clauses (i) to (iii), inclusive, is authorized by a competent authority to carry or possess the weapon so carried or possessed and is acting within the scope of his duties.

 Effective January 1, 2021, a current member of the United States military or the Massachusetts National Guard who has not been prohibited under said section 129B from owning a firearm and has received adequate training while serving in the military shall be exempt from being required to submit a basic firearms safety certificate to the licensing authority upon submitting a copy of the member’s most current military identification form.

Be sure to verify that any firearm training you receive in order to obtain your license is approved by the state of Massachusetts.

Find a USCCA Certified Instructor or Firearms Training Class Near You


Massachusetts Concealed Carry License Renewal Process

How to Renew a Massachusetts Concealed Carry License

Step 1:

Renewals are the responsibility of the licensee. You must renew your resident firearms license to carry or firearms identification card through your local police department in the town where you reside. You must submit your renewal application prior to the expiration date of your current license. If submitted prior to expiration, you will have an indefinite grace period in which your current license will remain valid after expiration. This grace period will stay in effect until the submitted application for renewal is either approved or denied by the licensing authority. If you do not submit your application for renewal prior to expiration of your current license, that license will expire and no longer be valid and you will need to apply for a new FID or LTC.

Non-resident and resident alien firearms licenses expire annually and must be renewed through the Firearms Records Bureau. There is no grace period for non-resident firearms licenses or resident alien permits.

Step 2:

You will need to submit:

You may need to submit:

  • A Massachusetts Basic Firearms Safety Course certificate
  • A form of identification
  • Proof of residence

Residents must mail the complete renewal package to your local licensing authority.

Non-Residents and Resident Aliens must mail the complete renewal package to the Firearms Records Bureau at:

Department of Criminal Justice Information Services
Firearms Records Bureau
200 Arlington Street, Suite 2200
Chelsea, MA 02150

Step 3:

You will be notified within 60 days (90 days for Non-Residents and Resident Aliens) when your firearms license application has been processed, either by telephone or by mail. You may need to pick up your firearms license in person.


Law Enforcement Officers (LEO)/Retired LEOs

Law enforcement officers (LEOs) and Retired LEOs (RLEOs) may choose to carry under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA), often referred to as HR 218. Under 18 U.S. Code §§ 926B & 926C, qualified LEOs and qualified retired LEOs, or those separated from service in good standing, can carry a concealed firearm in any jurisdiction in the United States, regardless of state or local laws, with some exceptions. For details, check out our Federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) page.

Per MGL Ch. 140, Section 131G, police officers and other peace officers of any state, territory or jurisdiction within the United States duly authorized to possess firearms by the laws thereof shall, for the purposes of this section, be deemed to have a permit or license to carry firearms in Massachusetts. In addition, LEOs not otherwise prohibited from receiving assault weapons or large capacity feeding devices, may possess these devices, based on MGL Ch. 140, Section 131M

In terms of obtaining LEOSA carry certification, 515 CMR 6:00 establishes rules and regulations governing the certification of qualified retired law enforcement officers and instructors for the purpose of complying with LEOSA qualification standards and instructor certification. 501 CMR 13:00 establishes the standards for ID cards for RLEOs. Any LEOSA instructor certified by the Massachusetts Department of State Police may conduct the annual certification.

 


Massachusetts Location Restrictions

Where Can I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Massachusetts?
  • Carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol? Yes.
  • Carry in my vehicle without a permit/license? No.
  • Carry in roadside rest areas? Yes.
  • Carry in state/national parks, state/national forests and WMAs? Yes.
  • Carry in places of worship? There is no state statute prohibiting concealed carry in places of worship. However, since places of worship are private property, they may post signs prohibiting firearms.
Where Can't I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Massachusetts?

Places off-limits even with a permit/license


FAQ: Massachusetts Concealed Carry Questions

What Are the Knife Laws in Massachusetts?

The state of Massachusetts does not forbid the ownership of any type of knife. However, stilettos, daggers, dirks, double-edged knives, devices or cases which enables a knife with a locking blade to be drawn at a locked position, ballistic knives, knives with knuckles and automatic knives are forbidden from carry and from carry on a person or under his control in a vehicle. Knives are prohibited from all schools, from the elementary level to university campuses. Massachusetts municipalities may have additional restrictions.

[MGL ch. 269, § 10(b) and (j)]

WEAR A COVID MASK & CARRY?

I can legally carry a concealed firearm in Massachusetts, but can I wear a COVID 19 protective mask while carrying concealed?

There is no known statute in Massachusetts making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed. A state statute was identified, making it illegal for a person to commit an assault, robbery, larceny or to obstruct the due execution of the law while masked or disguised. 

[Ch. 265, § 17 & Ch. 268, § 34

CARRY WHILE GUN HUNTING?

Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Massachusetts?

No. Handguns are not allowed for deer hunting and may not be in your possession while deer hunting.

[MA Dept of Fish & Wildlife Regulations]

CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING?

Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Massachusetts?

No.

HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW?

Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Massachusetts?

Yes. No person shall obstruct, interfere with or otherwise prevent the lawful taking of fish or wildlife by another at the locale where such activity is taking place.

[Mass. Gen. Laws Ch. 13, § 5C]


Massachusetts Gun Laws Updates:

Date Details
2022-07-05

Added shall-issue to page to reflect the recent decision of the Supreme Court in NYSRPA v. Bruen.

2021-03-08

Added information on law enforcement exemption from magazine limits in At A Glance table

2021-03-08

Added information on law enforcement carry in the LEOSA section

2021-03-08

Added information on school carry exemption law enforcement in the location restrictions section

2021-01-04

Updated MA LTC info due to the elimination of LTC A and B permits in the Permit App Section

2020-11-13

Added information on accepted training courses and exemptions in the Training Section

2020-09-03

Added information on Self Defense in the Summary

2020-07-01

Added information on wearing a COVID 19 mask while carrying concealed above the Summary

2020-05-05

Added info on handguns at hotels in At A Glance table

2020-04-17

Added info on handguns on private property in At A Glance table

2020-04-06

Added statutory link and details on private gun sales in At A Glance table

2020-02-25

Added info on carry in bars to the At A Glance table

2020-02-19

Added related blog posts with links

2020-02-14

Added info regarding residency changes and resulting impacts on carry permits

2020-01-29

Updated the knife laws and added statutory references

2020-01-10

Updated info on carry while using alcohol or controlled substances in At A Glance table

2019-12-19

Added info on the approved handgun roster and a link to the roster to the At A Glance table

2019-12-04

Added info on whether a valid state ccw permit exempts a person from needing a background check when purchasing a firearm to the At A Glance table

2019-11-19

Added statutory references and links for can’t carry locations

2019-10-31

Added brandishing info to At A Glance table

2019-10-15

Added Hunter Harassment info to At A Glance table

2019-10-01

Added Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray to the At A Glance table

2019-09-25

Updated the permit info section removing references to LTC-A and LTC-B which no longer exist

2019-09-25

Updated the summary and At A Glance table with info regarding open carry

2019-09-06

Added Carry While Hunting info to At A Glance table

2019-08-13

Added anchor links to various sections below the Summary

2019-07-25

Added minimum age to possess and transport a handgun to At A Glance table

2019-05-24

Added stun gun/Taser info to At A Glance table

2019-05-01

Added permit renewal and name/address change info

2019-04-18

Links checked

2019-03-28

Added info on state implementation of Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act (LEOSA)

2019-02-20

Added info and a link to vehicle carry in At A Glance table

2019-02-15

Added pages for Federal Gun Laws, Traveling with Firearms & Terminology

2019-02-09

Added ammunition restrictions to At A Glance table

2019-02-07

Added red flag law info to At A Glance table

2019-01-30

Stun guns added in At A Glance table as a permitted weapon

2019-01-25

Added church carry info to location restrictions section

2019-01-25

Links checked

2019-01-24

Added info about alcohol or prescription medication in At A Glance table

2019-01-10

Mag limit added to At A Glance table

Did We Miss Something?

Here at the USCCA, it is our mission to provide responsible gun owners with the tools they need to be educated and trained. Our team is constantly working to provide you with the most up-to-date and comprehensive list of self-defense laws available for every state.

If you have any questions that you don’t see answered here — let us know! Just email [email protected] and we will be sure to get your question resolved. Your feedback matters to us, and we appreciate you helping to make this page the best possible resource for responsible gun owners!

Permit numbers were obtained from the Crime Prevention Resource Center’s publication entitled, “Concealed Carry Permit Holders Across the United States.” Numbers include resident and non-resident permits for those states that issue both.

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.

If you have any questions regarding USCCA Membership, Delta Defense, handguns laws or the lawful process of carrying concealed, please contact the award-winning Delta Defense Customer Engagement Team.