Missouri has some of the most permissive gun laws in the U.S., making it a popular state for firearm owners. Missouri’s laws cover the legal aspects of purchasing, carrying, and using firearms, with specific guidelines for concealed carry, open carry, restricted areas, and self-defense rights. This guide provides a complete overview of Missouri’s gun laws to help residents and visitors stay compliant.
Missouri Gun Laws Overview
Purchasing Firearms in Missouri
Missouri allows adults to purchase firearms with few restrictions. No permit is required for firearm purchases, but buyers must adhere to federal requirements, including age and background checks for certain transactions.
Key Requirements:
- Permit to Purchase: Missouri does not require a permit to purchase a handgun or long gun.
- Background Check: Background checks are required for all firearms purchased from licensed dealers. Private sales do not require a background check.
- Waiting Period: Missouri does not enforce a waiting period for firearm purchases.
- Minimum Age: Federal laws apply, setting the minimum age at 18 for long guns and 21 for handguns.
Private Sales and Background Checks
In Missouri, private firearm sales do not require a background check, allowing residents to legally transfer firearms to each other without dealer involvement. However, buyers and sellers must ensure that they are not prohibited persons under state or federal law.
Open Carry in Missouri
Missouri is an open carry state, allowing anyone who is legally permitted to own a firearm to carry it openly in most public places without a permit.
Key Points on Open Carry:
- Permitless Open Carry: No permit is required to open carry a firearm in Missouri.
- Local Restrictions: Municipalities can set restrictions on open carry, so it’s important to check local laws, especially in major cities.
- Vehicle Carry: Open carry in a vehicle is allowed, and firearms can be carried without a permit.
Concealed Carry in Missouri
Missouri allows concealed carry without a permit for individuals 19 years or older (or 18 for military members). However, residents can still obtain a concealed carry permit for reciprocity with other states.
How to Obtain a Concealed Carry Permit:
- Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be 19 or older (18 for active-duty military) and meet background check requirements.
- Training: An eight-hour firearms safety course is required for a concealed carry permit.
- Application Process: Applications are submitted to the sheriff’s office, along with fingerprinting and fees.
- Renewal: Concealed carry permits are valid for five years and require renewal before expiration.
Reciprocity with Other States
Missouri recognizes concealed carry permits from all states and territories. Missouri’s concealed carry permit allows holders to carry in states with reciprocal agreements.
Restricted Locations for Carrying Firearms in Missouri
Missouri restricts firearms in specific areas, even for those with a concealed carry permit.
- Schools and University Campuses: Firearms are prohibited on K-12 school property and most college campuses.
- Government Buildings: Firearms are not allowed in courthouses, police stations, and some other government facilities.
- Private Property: Property owners can prohibit firearms on their premises. Any posted signage should be respected.
- Places of Worship: Carrying firearms in places of worship is generally restricted unless the organization grants permission.
Assault Weapons and Magazine Capacity in Missouri
Missouri does not restrict assault weapons or magazine capacity. Residents can possess and use a wide variety of firearms without state-imposed limits.
Self-Defense Laws in Missouri: Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine
Missouri has Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine laws, allowing individuals to defend themselves with force, including deadly force, when they believe they are under immediate threat of harm. These laws apply in public settings as well as within one’s home.
Stand Your Ground
Missouri’s Stand Your Ground law states that individuals have no duty to retreat if they are in a place they have the legal right to be and face an immediate threat.
Castle Doctrine
Under the Castle Doctrine, individuals are allowed to use force, including deadly force, within their own home or property to defend against an intruder.
Firearms Prohibited Persons in Missouri
Certain individuals in Missouri are restricted from firearm ownership due to legal status, criminal history, or mental health conditions.
- Felony Convictions: Individuals with felony convictions are generally prohibited from possessing firearms.
- Domestic Violence Convictions: Those with misdemeanor domestic violence convictions or active restraining orders may not possess firearms.
- Mental Health Restrictions: Persons adjudicated as mentally incompetent may face firearm ownership restrictions.
- Substance Abuse: Individuals with certain drug-related offenses may have restrictions on firearm possession.
Penalties for Violating Gun Laws in Missouri
Violating Missouri’s firearm laws can result in serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and loss of gun rights.
- Unlawful Possession: Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person can lead to criminal charges.
- Carrying in Restricted Areas: Bringing a firearm into a restricted location may result in penalties.
- Failure to Comply with Local Laws: Open carry restrictions by local governments can result in fines for those carrying openly without adherence to local ordinances.
Conclusion: Understanding Missouri’s Gun Laws
Missouri’s gun laws offer residents and visitors the ability to carry and own firearms with minimal restrictions. Missouri residents should remain informed about state-specific regulations to ensure legal compliance when purchasing, carrying, or using firearms in public and private settings.
FAQs About Gun Laws in Missouri
1. Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Missouri?
No, Missouri does not require a permit to purchase a firearm, although background checks are required for dealer sales.
2. Is open carry allowed without a permit in Missouri?
Yes, open carry is allowed without a permit, but certain local restrictions may apply.
3. Does Missouri restrict magazine capacity?
No, Missouri does not impose magazine capacity limits.
4. Does Missouri recognize out-of-state concealed carry permits?
Yes, Missouri honors concealed carry permits from all states.
5. What self-defense laws apply in Missouri?
Missouri has Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine laws, allowing for self-defense in public spaces and within one’s home without a duty to retreat.