Missouri Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

Everything you need to know about owning a firearm in the state of Missouri

Missouri Reciprocity Map

Last Updated on June 8, 2023

Missouri Concealed Carry Reciprocity Overview

6.1M

STATE POPULATION

160K

LICENSES ISSUED

2.62%

LICENSE PERCENTAGE

STATES HONORED

MINIMUM AGE TO CC

YEARS LICENSE VALID

RECIPROCATING STATES

YES

CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY

CC CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS

Clearly understanding your gun rights and state laws is the first step toward becoming a responsible firearm owner. The next step requires understanding reciprocity – how your rights translate across state lines. Missouri’s population is 6.1 million, and not many are licensed for concealed carry (CC). Only 2.6% of the populace account for the 160,000 permits issued.

Six states – Mississippi, New Hampshire, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, and Texas – have written reciprocity agreements with Missouri, while 30 states honor a Missouri CC license. The minimum age to CC in Missouri is 19, and the license is valid for five years. If you are interested in obtaining your concealed carry permit, you need an education partner you can trust.

Concealed Coalition has trained over a million U.S. citizens to carry their weapons safely and effectively. Contact us to find online or local training for your CC license.

Summary of Missouri Gun Laws

Your Missouri Gun Rights

Missouri is a shall-issue state, meaning authorities must issue a CC permit when an individual passes a background check and meets standards to qualify for firearm ownership. This includes being 19 years or older, a citizen of the U.S., and a resident of Missouri with an acceptable legal status and a sound mental state. There’s no registration, license, or permit necessary to purchase a firearm from a private individual. Permits are issued by the local sheriff’s office where necessary and are for reciprocity purposes.

Gun rights can differ significantly depending on your location. This makes it essential to know your home state’s rules. Here are the current firearm laws for Missouri:

Open Carry in Missouri

Missouri doesn’t require a permit to open carry for those 19 or older and legally permitted to own a firearm. It’s legal to carry any firearm except machine guns, short-barreled rifles or shotguns, silencers, or bullets or projectiles that explode on impact.

Concealed Carry in Missouri

No permit is necessary to CC. Applicants must be 19 or older, or 18 if active military. Eight hours of firearms training is required from a qualified instructor, or completion of an equivalent course (listed below under Firearms Training and Competency). Only handguns can be concealed carried.

Self Defense Laws in Missouri

A CC license is a way to protect yourself and others. It’s also crucial to know the Missouri self-defense laws to avoid using excessive action. Missouri is a Castle Doctrine state and became the 25th state to adopt a “stand your ground” law.

Use of Force

Missouri residents can use force in or outside of their homes, property, or business. You may use physical force in defense of self, of others, or to prevent tampering, stealing or property damage.

Use of Deadly Force

It’s permitted when under the reasonable belief that it will prevent a forcible felony, serious physical injury, or death. Deadly force may also be used if someone is trying to enter your property illegally intending to commit such harm.

Private property owners may use deadly force on anyone illegally entering and remaining on their property when the owner has announced their intention to use said force, but they cannot use deadly force purely in defense of the property itself.

Protecting Yourself After Use of Force

Your legal position following use of force depends on how authorities view the act. Acting with a reasonable belief against imminent harm from an immediate threat may be viewed as justified if the use of force did not persist after the danger ended.

Firearms training is an excellent way to gain the skills necessary to gauge threat levels. Concealed Coalition has trained people nationwide to become responsible, certified gun owners. Classes are available locally and online.

Missouri Gun Laws by Statute

Concealed Coalition is dedicated to dispelling the myths surrounding gun ownership and promoting a culture of understanding, responsibility, and confidence. Our certified instructors are qualified across multiple states, and our online or local training classes provide convenient learning environments run by instructors who care.

Quick Links

CONCEALED CARRY BASICS IN MISSOURI

QUESTION

ANSWER

Does Missouri recognize constitutional carry?

Yes, but not in any prohibited location, and local authorities may impose restrictions. Contact them to learn more.

Is open carry permitted in Missouri?

Open Carry is legal without a permit but local governments can ban the open carrying of firearms without a valid permit Missouri issues or honors. The state preemption statute only covers the carrying of concealed firearms so local authorities can ban the carrying of firearms openly without a valid permit

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

If the application is approved, the sheriff shall issue a concealed carry permit to the applicant within three working days after his or her approval of the application.

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

19 years old.

Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Missouri with a concealed carry license (or under permit-less carry if applicable)?

No. Missouri law does not allow the concealed carry of weapons other than handguns.

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

Yes, without a permit.

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

Yes.

Does Missouri have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?

No.

Does Missouri have ammunition restrictions?

Yes. You must be 18 or older to buy ammo, and exploding ammo is forbidden.

CONCEALED CARRY LOCATIONS IN MISSOURI

QUESTION

ANSWER

Where can't I carry a concealed firearm in Missouri?

Missouri law prohibits CC in the following places:

Sheriff’s offices, police stations, and highway patrol posts
Within 25 feet of polling places on election day
Adult or juvenile detention or correctional facilities
Courts or their related premises
Government assemblies or buildings
Establishments primarily dedicated to selling liquor
Airport inspection areas
Where prohibited by federal law
Elementary, secondary, or higher-education facilities, unless designated a school protection officer
Child care facilities
Amusement parks, sports arenas, and stadiums
Places of religious worship
Riverboat gambling spots
Public transport
Private property where “No Weapons Allowed” signs are prominently displayed.

No list of prohibited locations is set in stone. Always consult with your destination before arriving to ensure compliance with CC rules, even if you have visited it before with no CC-related prohibitions or complications.

Where can I carry a concealed firearm in Missouri?

CC licensees may carry in any location that does not meet the criteria above, provided they adhere to local and site-specific regulations. Check with local law enforcement on CC limitations before visiting a new location.

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

Yes, as long as the firearm is not removed from the vehicle and brandished in a restricted area or in a threatening manner.

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

Yes.

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

Yes, but with some restrictions, as listed on the National Park Service page.

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

Yes, but only with the manager’s consent and if the restaurant derives 51% of its income from the sale of food (item seven).

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

This varies from site to site, and CC licensees can’t always rely on the hotel’s management having adhered to the state’s required signage laws. Check with the hotel to clarify their position before entering the premises.

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

This is vague under item 15. Employers can prohibit CC on their property, which may also include the parking lot. Speak with your employer and adhere to their rules.

IMPORTANT GUNS LAWS IN MISSOURI

QUESTION

ANSWER

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

Yes, but only if a peace officer asks, and it must be displayed with your CC permit and photo ID. It’s recommended to volunteer this information to an officer without being asked. This projects an air of responsibility and cooperation.

Are "No Weapons Allowed? signs enforced in Missouri? 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, unless an individual refuses to leave or repeatedly enters the premises while carrying a concealed weapon.

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

Yes, but third-class (3,000 or more inhabitants) and fourth-class cities or towns (500-3,000 inhabitants) may enact firearms ordinances.

Does Missouri have a red flag law?

No.

Does Missouri state law define brandishing?

It’s illegal to display any weapon capable of lethal use in a threatening or angry manner.

Is it legal to carry a concealed firearm in Missouri while using alcohol or illegal drugs?

No.

Does Missouri issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?

Only if they are (or spouses of) active military personnel 18 or older stationed in Missouri, or a veteran.

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

No.

HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION IN MISSOURI

QUESTION

ANSWER

Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Missouri?

No.

Are background checks required for private gun sales in Missouri?

Missouri does not require background checks.

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

No.

Do handguns need to be registered in Missouri?

No.

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

18 years of age.

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

Yes.

Acquiring a Concealed Carry License in Missouri

Quick Links

MISSOURI CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION

Concealed Carry Requirements to Register for a License in Missouri

An applicant must:

Be at least age 19, or be at least 18 and a member of the United States Armed Forces or honorably discharged from the United States Armed Forces;
Be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States;
Be either a resident of Missouri, a member of the Armed Forces stationed in Missouri or the spouse of such a military member;
Have taken a firearms training course;
Not have pled guilty to or entered a plea of no contest or have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding 1 year, other than a crime classified as a misdemeanor punishable by a term of imprisonment of 2 years or less that does not involve an explosive weapon, firearm, firearm silencer or gas gun;
Not have been convicted of, pled guilty to or entered a plea of no contest to one or more misdemeanor offenses involving crimes of violence during the immediately preceding 5-year period, or not have been convicted of 2 or more misdemeanor offenses involving driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs or the possession or abuse of a controlled substance during the immediately preceding 5-year period;
Not be a fugitive from justice or currently charged in an information or indictment with the commission of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding 1 year, other than a crime classified as a misdemeanor punishable by a term of imprisonment of 2 years or less that does not involve an explosive weapon, firearm, firearm silencer or gas gun;
Not have been dishonorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces;
Not have been engaged in a pattern of behavior, documented in public records, that causes the sheriff to have a reasonable belief that the applicant presents a danger to himself, herself or others;
Not have been adjudged mentally incompetent at the time of application or for 5 years prior to application, or committed to a mental health facility or a similar institution located in another state following a hearing at which the applicant was represented by counsel or a representative;
Not be the respondent of a valid “full order of protection” that is still in effect

Fees:

$93 for new permits
$50 for renewals
$500 for lifetime permit (extended and lifetime permits are not valid outside of MO)

Valid For:

5 years.

There are options for 10 and 20 year extended permits, as well as lifetime permits. For more information, consult with your country Sheriff’s department.

Processing Time:

45 days.

Applications:

Download and complete the following application.

Non-Resident Concealed Carry License:

Non-resident permits are only available to persons who are on active military duty or veterans who are at least 18 years old and stationed in Missouri. The spouses of active military personnel can also apply for a permit if they are at least 19 years old and reside in the state. The application and process are similar to that for residents.

Name & Address Changes:

If you change your name, you have 30 days to notify your sheriff and obtain a corrected or new permit. The sheriff may charge you no more than $10 to process the name change. If you do not notify your sheriff within 30 days that you have changed your name, the sheriff MUST, by law, charge you a late fee of $10 per month for each month up to six months. If you neglect to notify your sheriff within 180 days that you have changed your name, your permit automatically becomes invalid.

You are not required to report a change of address unless you move to a different county. You have 30 days to notify the sheriff of the county into which you move of your permanent residence location. The sheriff may charge you no more than $10 to process the address change. If you do not notify the sheriff within 30 days that you have moved into their county, the sheriff MUST, by law, charge you a late fee of $10 per month for each month up to six months. If you neglect to notify the sheriff within 180 days that you have moved into their county, your permit automatically becomes invalid. You will get a new permit number and a new card from the sheriff.

Within 7 days of actually discovering the loss or destruction of the permit, the permit holder must appear at the sheriff’s department to furnish a written statement that the permit is lost/destroyed. A replacement permit will be issued within 3 days for a fee.

Lost or Stolen Licenses:

Residency Changes:

Missouri issues permits to residents and members of the military stationed in Missouri and their spouses only. You can apply for your permit with the sheriff of your county once you have established your residence in that county.

If a person with a Missouri pistol permit establishes residency in another state, the pistol permit expires upon the establishment of residence in the other state.

MISSOURI CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE APPLICATION PROCESS

Step One:

Complete 8 hours of firearms training or the 1-hour online NRA firearms safety course, with the remainder of the training provided by a qualified concealed carry instructor.

Step Two:

Download and complete a hard copy (or online for Boone County) application (proof of residence is required by some counties).

Step Three:

Take the completed application to the county sheriff’s office or submit online where applicable.

Pay the fee.

You will be fingerprinted.

Step Four:

You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved.

MISSOURI CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE RENEWAL PROCESS

Step One:

Pick up renewal applications at a sheriff’s office no earlier than six months before expiration and no later than 12 months after. The renewal fee varies but should be under $50.

Step Two:

Applicants must submit their application along with their current or expired CC license, proof of Missouri residency, a photo ID, and the application renewal fee.

Step Three:

You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved.

Concealed Carry for Law Enforcement Officers and Retired LEOs

Federal law H.R. 218 allows both active and retired law enforcement officers (LEOs) to CC anywhere in the U.S., but there are parameters. They must still adhere to private property rules and are forbidden to CC on a plane, as examples. State- or government-owned properties may also exercise prohibitions. Here’s how it applies to Missouri:

LEOSA ID cards are issued to LEOs/RLEOs by the law enforcement department they serve or did serve.
Out-of-state officers residing in Missouri aren’t allowed to LEOSA carry if the state they serve or previously served has no LEOSA program.
Out-of-state officers seeking LEOSA authorization from Missouri must come from a reciprocating state and enquire with local law enforcement regarding possible certification.

LEOSA laws are subject to updates and changes like any firearm regulation. LEOs and RLEOs should check with local law enforcement or their intended state of residence for CC guidelines.

Firearms Training & Competency

Proper firearms training is essential for any individual wanting to carry a gun, especially those who don’t receive training with their employment. Missouri citizens require eight hours of training if they want their CC permit. An alternative is to take a course from the NRA and another that covers:

Missouri laws relating to firearms and use of force
The process of applying for a firearm
Safety etiquette while carrying a firearm
Firing exercises with an instructor using no less than 20 rounds from a handgun (semi-auto, revolver, or an equivalent)

The other forms of training on this list also offer valuable firearms experience sufficient for Missouri concealed carry.

NRA Training

The NRA offers several types of training at a wide range of locations. Use the local training locator to find classes near you and specific lessons.

Hunter Safety Courses

Those born on or after January 1, 1967 must complete hunter certification to hunt in Missouri, with a few exceptions. The state’s Department of Conservation has more details and offers in-person and online qualification options.

Firearms Safety Courses From Other Providers

Public and private institutions, colleges, or law enforcement agencies often provide firearms training. It’s recommended to contact local law enforcement to ensure your selected training venue provides state-approved lessons sufficient for CC.

A Firearms Training Course With a State-Certified Instructor

Concealed Coalition offers firearms training to help you gain a CC license. Our certified instructors provide actionable lessons based on their extensive experience to ensure you gain tested and reliable skills.

DD Form 214 or Military Orders for Active or Former Military Members

The military issues document DD 214 when a service member performs active duty or has completed at least 90 consecutive days of active-duty training. This may count toward proof of firearms competency, but consult with your local VA and law enforcement to make sure.

Get Certified for a Missouri Concealed Carry Permit Today

The certified instructors at Concealed Coalition will teach you the applicable laws for your state and how to carry and fire a firearm safely. Training is available across the U.S. and online, so contact us with any questions or to sign up.

Did we miss something?

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 promptly. Your feedback matters to us, and we greatly appreciate you helping us make this page the best possible resource for responsible gun owners! The information contained on this website is provided by Concealed Coalition as a service to its members and the public. The information on this page does not constitute legal advice. Our goal is to provide thorough, up-to-date information regarding concealed carry laws, reciprocity, and requirements. We make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information disclosed. At the time of publishing the information contained in this page was correct and up-to-date. However, laws are constantly changing, and as a result, nothing contained on this website should be considered legal advice. Please consult a lawyer should you require legal advice regarding concealed carry and gun laws in your state. Did you know our membership includes a pre-paid legal protection plan? Sign up today and gain access to 24/7 coverage from a team of legal experts.

*Legal protection plans available in select states.

Missouri Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

Everything you need to know about owning a firearm in the state of Missouri

Missouri Reciprocity Map

Missouri Concealed Carry Reciprocity Overview

Summary of Missouri Gun Laws

Your Missouri Gun Rights

Open Carry in Missouri

Concealed Carry in Missouri

Self Defense Laws in Missouri

Use of Force

Use of Deadly Force

Protecting Yourself After Use of Force

Missouri Gun Laws by Statute

CONCEALED CARRY BASICS IN MISSOURI

Does Missouri recognize constitutional carry?

Is open carry permitted in Missouri?

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

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

Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Missouri with a concealed carry license (or under permit-less carry if applicable)?

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

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

Does Missouri have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?

Does Missouri have ammunition restrictions?

CONCEALED CARRY LOCATIONS IN MISSOURI

Where can't I carry a concealed firearm in Missouri?

Where can I carry a concealed firearm in Missouri?

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

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

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

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

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

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

IMPORTANT GUNS LAWS IN MISSOURI

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

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

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

Does Missouri have a red flag law?

Does Missouri state law define brandishing?

Is it legal to carry a concealed firearm in Missouri while using alcohol or illegal drugs?

Does Missouri issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?

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

HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION IN MISSOURI

Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Missouri?

Are background checks required for private gun sales in Missouri?

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

Do handguns need to be registered in Missouri?

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

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

Acquiring a Concealed Carry License in Missouri

MISSOURI CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION

Concealed Carry Requirements to Register for a License in Missouri

MISSOURI CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE APPLICATION PROCESS

MISSOURI CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE RENEWAL PROCESS

Concealed Carry for Law Enforcement Officers and Retired LEOs

Firearms Training & Competency

NRA Training

Hunter Safety Courses

Firearms Safety Courses From Other Providers

A Firearms Training Course With a State-Certified Instructor

DD Form 214 or Military Orders for Active or Former Military Members

Get Certified for a Missouri Concealed Carry Permit Today

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