New Mexico Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

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

Yes, Constitutional Carry (Check Ages)

Have concealed carry permits from more than one state?

Check out our new Multi-State Permit Tool here!

48k

LICENSES ISSUED

2.1M

STATE POPULATION

2%

LICENSE PERCENTAGE

23

STATES HONORED

21

MINIMUM AGE TO CC

Varies

YEARS LICENSE VALID

36

RECIPROCATING STATES

9

ATTORNEYS IN USCCA NETWORK

127

USCCA CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS

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Summary of New Mexico Gun Laws

New Mexico is a shall-issue state with concealed weapons licenses issued at the state level by the Department of Public Safety.

There is no permit or firearms registration required when buying a handgun from a private individual. However, per SB-8, as of July 1, 2019, background checks are required for private sales of firearms. Under this new law, it is a misdemeanor crime to sell a gun without a background check administered by a licensed federal firearms dealer, although there are some exceptions to the law. A background check is not required for sales between law enforcement officers or immediate family members.

Open carry is legal in New Mexico without a license for anyone at least 19 years of age who can legally possess a firearm. Some areas are off-limits, including tribal land and places that sell hard liquor.

A New Mexico Concealed Handgun License (CHL) is required for residents and a permit from a state that New Mexico honors is required for non-residents to carry a concealed loaded firearm on foot. State law limits concealed carry license holders to carrying one concealed firearm at any given time. In addition, CHLs identify the category and caliber of concealed handgun that may be carried. The minimum age is 21 years old and  a 15-hour handgun safety course that includes live-fire instruction is required. New Mexico doesn’t issue non-resident licenses with the exception of members of the military permanently stationed in New Mexico and their dependents. No license is required for open or concealed carry of an unloaded firearm or of a loaded firearm in a vehicle. In terms of reciprocity, New Mexico recognizes permits from states with reciprocity agreements.

Self-Defense

Although there is no specific statute establishing the Castle Doctrine, a 1946 state supreme court ruling in State v. Couch stated, “A person who is threatened with an attack need not retreat. In the exercise of his [or her] right of self-defense, he [or she] may stand [one’s] ground and defend himself [or herself].”

According to New Mexico law, homicide is justifiable when committed in any of the following cases:

  • When committed in the necessary defense of his or her life, family, a third party or property;
  • When committed in the lawful defense of himself or herself or of another when there is reasonable ground to believe a design exists to commit a felony or to do some great personal injury and there is imminent danger;  or
  • When necessarily committed in attempting — by lawful ways and means — to apprehend a person for a felony, in lawfully suppressing any riot or in necessarily and lawfully keeping and preserving the peace.

A defendant who kills another in self-defense while standing his or her ground must show that he or she (1) was placed in reasonable fear of immediate death or great bodily harm, (2) used a reasonable amount of force to avoid the threat and (3) did not instigate the encounter.

[N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30-2-7]

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New Mexico Gun Laws at a Glance

Carry Basics
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?
What is the minimum age in New Mexico to get a concealed carry license?

The minimum age to concealed carry in New Mexico is 21.

Open Carry Permitted?
Is open carry permitted in New Mexico?

Yes, without a license. Any person who is at least 19 years old and legally entitled to possess a firearm can open carry.

Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?
Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in New Mexico?

Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in New Mexico.

Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?
Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in New Mexico with a concealed carry license (or under permitless carry if applicable)?

No. However, state law limits concealed carry license holders to carrying one concealed gun at any given time. However, any number of firearms can be openly carried.

[N.M. Admin. Code §10.8.2.16]

Gun Permit Licensure?
If New Mexico requires a license to carry a concealed firearm, how are those licenses issued?

New Mexico is a shall-issue state.

AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS?
Does New Mexico have ammunition restrictions?

No. New Mexico does not have ammunition restrictions.

MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS?
Does New Mexico have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?

No. New Mexico does not have magazine capacity restrictions.

Constitutional Carry?
Does New Mexico allow constitutional carry?

No. New Mexico does not allow constitutional carry.

Tasers or Stun Guns?
Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in New Mexico?

Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a license.

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Carry Locations
CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS?
Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in New Mexico?

Yes, with a New Mexico Concealed Handgun License or a permit from a state that New Mexico honors.

STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT?
Does New Mexico have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?
Not addressed in New Mexico state law, although employers may have a policy.
CARRY IN VEHICLE?
Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in New Mexico?

Yes, (including motorcycles and bicycles) without a license for anyone 19 or older who is not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm. However, if you don’t have a license, you may not have the weapon concealed on your person when you exit your vehicle.

[N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30-7-3]

CARRY IN BARS/RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL?
Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in New Mexico?

You may conceal carry exclusively in restaurants licensed to sell only beer and wine that derive no less than 60% of their annual gross receipts from the sale of food for consumption on the premises, with a New Mexico CHL or a permit from a state that New Mexico honors, unless posted (or the person is verbally instructed by the owner or manager that the carrying of a firearm is not permitted in the restaurant). Carry is not permitted in bars or restaurants that serve hard liquor.

[N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30-7-3]

CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)?
Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in New Mexico?

Yes, with a New Mexico Concealed Handgun License or a permit from a state that New Mexico honors, for state/national parks and forests. See the National Parks webpage for links to each Park in New Mexico.

[N.M. Admin. Code 19.5.2.21]

No for WMAs.

CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL?
Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in New Mexico?

Home and business owners may legally forbid firearms on their property and/or in their buildings with appropriately displayed signage stating such prohibition. The individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about it's concealed carry policy. See the Handguns at Hotels page for additional information.

[N.M. Admin. Code 10.8.2.16]

Key State Laws
DRIVER'S LICENSE LINKED TO Carry License?
Is my New Mexico driver’s license linked to my New Mexico carry license?

Yes. Your New Mexico driver’s license is linked to your New Mexico concealed handgun license. Therefore, a law enforcement officer will be notified immediately that you are a concealed carry license holder if they run your driver’s license.

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

Yes. A licensee may not carry a concealed handgun on or about his person on private property that has signs posted prohibiting the carrying of concealed weapons or when verbally told so by a person lawfully in possession of the property.

[N.M. Admin. Code §​​​​​​​10.8.2.16]

NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING?
Does New Mexico issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?

Yes, but only for members of the military stationed in NM and their dependents.

Brandishing?
Does New Mexico state law define brandishing?

No definition of brandishing was found in New Mexico law. However, it is illegal to endanger the safety of another by handling or using a firearm or other deadly weapon in a negligent manner.

[N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30-7-4(A)(3)]

Any unlawful act, threat or menacing conduct which causes another person to reasonably believe that he is in danger of receiving an immediate battery with a deadly weapon.

[N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30-3-2]

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

Yes, the state has preemption of firearms laws in New Mexico.

Red Flag Law?
Does New Mexico have a red flag law?

New Mexico has a red flag law that took effect on May 20, 2020. It allows law enforcement officers to file a petition ordering the respondent to surrender all firearms which the respondent then controls, owns or possesses and further enjoins the respondent from purchasing, receiving or attempting to purchase, possess or receive any firearm while the order is in effect.

PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY?
Does New Mexico allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?

No, however, the information is available for law enforcement.

Duty to Inform Officer You're Carrying?
Do you have a duty to inform a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in New Mexico?

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

Carry While Using Alcohol or Drugs?
Does New Mexico have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or drugs?

Not while consuming alcohol or while impaired by the use of alcohol, controlled substances, or over-the-counter or prescribed medications.

[N.M. Stat. Ann. §§ 30-7-4][N.M. Admin. Code 10.8.2.16B ]

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.

Handgun Purchase & Possession
HANDGUN REGISTRATION?
Do handguns need to be registered in New Mexico?

No. Handguns do not need to be registered in New Mexico.

WAITING PERIOD?
Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in New Mexico?

Yes, as of May 15, 2024.

BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? EXCEPTIONS?
Are background checks required for private gun sales in New Mexico? Are there exceptions?

Yes. As of July 1, 2019, private sales have to be administered by a licensed federal firearms dealer who will run a background check. This requirement is subject to certain narrow exceptions, including sales between immediate family members. An immediate family member is defined as a spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, grandchild, great-grandchild, niece, nephew, first cousin, aunt or uncle.

[N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30-7-7.1(B)(4)]

MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT?
What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in New Mexico?

The minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in New Mexico is 19 years old.

[N.M.Stat. Ann. § 30-7-2.2(C)(1)]

PURCHASE PERMITS?
Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in New Mexico?

No. A permit is not required to purchase a handgun in New Mexico.

NEW MEXICO LICENSE EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK?
Does my current New Mexico concealed carry license exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?

No.

POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A LICENSE?
Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a license?

Yes. A concealed carry license is not required for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm to carry a handgun in the person's residence or on real property belonging to him or her as owner, lessee, tenant or licensee.

[N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30-7-2(A)]

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STATE CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISION

No law shall abridge the right of the citizen to keep and bear arms for security and defense, for lawful hunting and recreational use, and for other lawful purposes, but nothing herein shall be held to permit the carrying of concealed weapons. No municipality or county shall regulate, in any way, an incident of the right to keep and bear arms." ARTICLE II, § 6

New Mexico Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States

Which states' permits does New Mexico honor?

Alaska

Arizona (at least 21 years old)

Arkansas (at least 21 years old)

Colorado

Delaware (at least 21 years old)

Florida (handguns only)

Idaho (at least 21 years old)

Kansas

Michigan

Mississippi (at least 21 years old)

Missouri (at least 21 years old)

Nebraska

Nevada (at least 21 years old)

North Carolina

North Dakota (Class 1 permits only)

Ohio

Oklahoma (at least 21 years old)

South Carolina

South Dakota (Enhanced permits only)

Tennessee (at least 21 years old)

Texas (at least 21 years old)

Virginia

West Virginia (at least 21 years old)

Wyoming (at least 21 years old)

New Mexico recognizes permits from states with reciprocity agreements. The minimum age is 21 years old. New Mexico residents must have a N.M. Concealed Handgun License (CHL) to carry in the state.


Other States' Reciprocity With New Mexico

Which states honor permits from New Mexico?

Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)

Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Delaware

Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Minnesota

Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Nevada

New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

North Carolina

North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Virginia

Wisconsin

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 New Mexico

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

Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Colorado (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Georgia (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)

Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old 18 for military)

Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 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)

Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)


Permitless Carry States

Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)

Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 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)

Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old 18 for military)

Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

*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.


New Mexico Concealed Carry License Information

Non-Resident Concealed Carry Licenses:

New Mexico grants non-resident licenses only for members of the military permanently stationed in New Mexico and their dependents. Out-of-state permits can be transferred over to New Mexico licenses.

Residency Changes:

Moving to New Mexico and interested in applying for a resident license? How soon can you apply?New Mexico issues licenses to residents and members of the military permanently stationed in New Mexico and their dependents only. You can apply for your license once you establish your residence. In addition, out-of-state permits can be transferred over to New Mexico licenses.

Moving from New Mexico and have a New Mexico resident license? Does that license transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your New Mexico license remains valid?If a person with a New Mexico concealed handgun license establishes residency in another state, the license expires upon the establishment of residence in the other state.

Lost/Stolen Licenses:

If a concealed handgun license is lost, stolen or destroyed, the license is invalid and the licensee may obtain a duplicate license by furnishing the department a notarized statement that the original license was lost, stolen or destroyed and paying a reasonable fee. If the license is lost or stolen, the licensee shall file a police report with a local law enforcement agency and include the police case number in the notarized statement. Complete the Concealed Handgun License/Replacement Card Application and submit it within 10 Days to:

NM Department of Public Safety SID/Concealed Carry Unit6301 Indian School Rd. NE Suite 310Albuquerque, NM 87110

Application:

Link to application (As of Jan. 9, 2023, the application can now be completed online.)

Processing Time:

30 days

Requirements:

An applicant must:

  • Be at least 21 years old;
  • Be a citizen of the United States or a Permanent Resident Alien (although not reflected in state statutes, we have been informed by Permanent Resident Aliens that they were able to obtain their New Mexico Concealed Handgun License);
  • Complete a firearms training course (military service person's discharged from military service within 20 years are exempt);
  • Be a resident of New Mexico or a member of the armed forces whose permanent duty station is located in New Mexico;
  • Not be a fugitive from justice;
  • Not have been convicted of, or under indictment for, a felony;
  • Not have been adjudicated mentally incompetent or committed to a mental institution;
  • Not be addicted to alcohol or controlled substances;
  • Satisfactorily complete a firearms training course;
  • Not have:
    • Received a conditional discharge, a diversion or a deferment, or been convicted of, pled guilty to or entered a plea of nolo contendere to a misdemeanor offense involving a crime of violence within the 10-year period preceding application;
    • Been convicted of a misdemeanor offense involving driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs within 5 years immediately preceding the application for a concealed handgun license;
    • Been convicted within the 10-year period preceding application of a misdemeanor offense involving the possession or abuse of a controlled substance; or
    • Been convicted of a misdemeanor offense involving assault, battery or battery against a household member; 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 New Mexico.

Valid For:

4 years, but license holders must complete a 2-hour refresher firearms training course 2 years after the issuance of an original or renewed license. Licenses for members of the military, LEOs and RLEOs are valid for 5 years.

Name/Address Changes:

You are required to notify the Department of this change within 30 days. Complete the Concealed Handgun License/Replacement Card Application and submit it to:

NM Department of Public Safety SID/Concealed Carry Unit6301 Indian School Rd. NE Suite 310Albuquerque, NM 87110

Fees:

Initial License $100 ($56 application fee $44 Fingerprint fee)

Renewals $75 

No charge for members of the military ($12 fingerprint fee)


New Mexico Concealed Carry License Application Process

How to Apply for a New Mexico Concealed Carry License

A CHL identifies the category and caliber of concealed handgun that may be carried by the licensee. If a licensee wishes to add another category (revolver/automatic) or additional higher calibers of handguns to his or her license, the licensee shall file with the department an application for a renewed license. The licensee shall also submit a certified copy of a certificate of completion from an approved instructor stating that the licensee has demonstrated competency on a firing range for each additional category and caliber of handgun, his current license, and a $5.00 processing fee. The licensee need not retake the classroom portion of the firearms training course. The department shall issue a renewed license within 10 days of receipt of the application. The renewed license shall expire on the same date as the original license would have expired.


Firearms Training Requirements in New Mexico

New Mexico requires that concealed handgun license applicants satisfactorily complete an approved firearms training course for the category and largest caliber of handgun the applicant desires to be licensed to carry. For a military service person discharged from military service within 20 years of the application for a license or renewal of a license, a firearms training course or refresher firearms training course is not required. 

The New Mexico Dept. of Public Safety (DPS) prepares and publishes minimum standards for approved training courses, which must include classroom instruction, range instruction and an actual demonstration by the applicant of his or her ability to safely use, at a minimum, a handgun of .32 caliber. A training course must not be less than 15 hours in length and must provide instruction regarding:

  • Safe handling and knowledge of single- and double-action revolvers and semi-automatic handguns;
  • Safe storage of handguns and child safety;
  • Safe handgun shooting fundamentals;
  • Live shooting of a handgun on a firing range;
  • Identification of ways to develop and maintain handgun shooting skills;
  • Federal, state and local criminal and civil laws pertaining to the purchase, ownership, transportation, use and possession of handguns;
  • Techniques for avoiding a criminal attack and how to control a violent confrontation; and
  • Techniques for non-violent dispute resolution.

Approved training courses are those certified or sponsored by a federal or state law enforcement agency, a college, a firearms training school or a nationally recognized organization approved by DPS that customarily offers firearms training. Every instructor of an approved training course is required to file a copy of the course description and proof of certification with DPS annually.

Refresher training is required at 2 year intervals – A licensee shall complete a 2-hour refresher firearms training course 2 years after the issuance of an original or renewed license. The refresher course shall be approved by the department and shall be taken 22-26 months after the issuance of an original or renewed license. A certificate of completion shall be submitted to the department no later than 30 days after completion of the course. 

A 4-hour refresher firearms training course approved by the department is required for all license renewals.

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New Mexico Concealed Carry License Renewal Process

How to Renew a New Mexico Concealed Carry License


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.

The New Mexico Department of Public Safety Concealed Handgun Carry Unit advises that RLEOs who are residents of New Mexico and have been issued retired credentials in accordance with LEOSA may be qualified by a state-approved Concealed Carry Firearms Instructor. After they have fired the state qualification course, the Concealed Carry Firearms Instructor issues a letter to the RLEO as proof that he/she has met the annual qualification requirement.

Per N.M. Admin. Code § 10.8.2.31, RLEOs are allowed to obtain a five-year concealed handgun carry license if the retired law enforcement officer:

  1. Has submitted all forms as required in these rules;
  2. Is a resident of the state of New Mexico;
  3. Has retired from a law enforcement agency after a minimum of 15 years of employment, unless the retirement was due to a job-related disability;
  4. Has submitted a letter from the agency verifying employment if the 15 years is with more than one agency;
  5. Has submitted a letter from the agency verifying employment he or she retired from which indicates he or she retired in good standing with the effective date of retirement;
  6. Has submitted a copy of his or her last firearms qualification scores indicating category and caliber designation, dated and signed by the department’s firearms instructor;
  7. Has taken a firearms course in accordance with the act if the officer has been retired longer than ten years at the time of application;
  8. Has submitted a copy of his or her law enforcement certification and number; and
  9. Has qualified and adheres to the provisions of the act and these rules.

New Mexico Location Restrictions

WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM IN NEW MEXICO?
  • Carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol? Yes, but limited to restaurants licensed to sell only beer and wine, unless posted. Carry is not permitted in bars or restaurants that serve hard liquor.
  • Carry in my vehicle without a permit/license? Yes.
  • Carry in roadside rest areas? Yes.
  • Carry in state parks and state/national forests? Yes, with a CHL.
  • Carry in establishments that sell alcoholic beverages for off-site consumption (grocery stores, liquor stores, convenience stores)?  Yes, with a CHL.
  • 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 NEW MEXICO?
Places off-limits even with a permit/license

FAQ: New Mexico Concealed Carry Questions

CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING?
Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in New Mexico?

Yes. It is legal for anyone to possess a handgun for self-defense during any bow, muzzleloader or rifle hunt in NM. Open carry is allowed for anyone at least 21 years old that is not prohibited from possessing a firearm. A concealed carry license is required for carrying concealed.

The handgun cannot be used in the harvest of any animal, even as a “coup de grace” unless a handgun is a legal weapon type for that hunt.

WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS IN NEW MEXICO?

You may carry any legal knife openly on your own property or in your vehicle. It is illegal to own a switchblade, balisong or butterfly knife. It is illegal to concealed carry — outside of one’s residence or real property — deadly weapons such as dirks, poniards, daggers, bowie knives, switchblades, butterfly knives, butcher knives or any other knife which can cause dangerous wounds. Deadly weapons are not permitted on school grounds or public buses.

[NMSA §§ 30-1-12, 30-7-2, 30-7-2.1, 30-7-8 & 30-7-13]

WEAR A COVID MASK & CARRY?
I can legally carry a concealed firearm in New Mexico, but can I wear a COVID 19 protective mask while carrying concealed?

There is no known statute in New Mexico making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed. Two state laws refer to individuals concealing their identity with the intention to commit illegal acts or with intent to intimidate, however they do not address wearing a mask while legally carrying a concealed firearm.

[§ 30-3-2 & § 30-22-3] 

HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW?
Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in New Mexico?

Yes. New Mexico Law prohibits interference with another who is lawfully hunting, trapping or fishing in an area where those activities are permitted. Interference means:

[N.M.Stat. Ann. § 17-2-7.1]

CARRY WHILE GUN HUNTING?
Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in New Mexico?

Yes with a New Mexico Concealed Handgun License or a permit from a state that New Mexico honors. The handgun cannot be used in the harvest of any animal, even as a “coup de grace” unless a handgun is a legal weapon type for that hunt.

[N.M. Admin. Code 19.5.2.21]


New Mexico Gun Laws Updates

2024-05-15
Updated waiting period to purchase firearms
2024-03-05
Updated Where Can't I Carry Section to reflect new law on polling places
2021-11-02
Added the State Capitol building to the list of can’t carry locations
2021-05-18
Added info on driver's license link to permit in At A Glance table
2020-12-23
Added information and link for 2-hour refresher training in the Training section

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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 support@uscca.com 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.