Missouri's Constitutional Carry: What You Need To Know

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 55 views

Hey everyone, let's dive into something super important for those of us in Missouri: constitutional carry. Specifically, we're going to break down what it means in the Show-Me State as of 2023. This is a big deal for gun owners and anyone interested in the right to bear arms. So, grab a coffee (or your favorite beverage), and let's get into it! We'll cover everything from the basic definition of constitutional carry to the specific laws here in Missouri, and what you need to know to stay on the right side of the law.

What Exactly is Constitutional Carry?

Alright, so what does "constitutional carry" even mean? In a nutshell, it's a system where law-abiding citizens can carry a handgun (concealed or sometimes openly) without needing a permit from the state. The idea is that the right to bear arms is already protected by the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, so a permit shouldn't be required to exercise that right. Think of it like this: if you're legally allowed to own a handgun, you should, in theory, also be legally allowed to carry it. The specifics can vary a bit from state to state, of course, and that's where things get interesting. Some states might have certain restrictions or requirements, like age limits or not being a prohibited person (more on that later!). This is not the same as "open carry" which simply means carrying a handgun in plain view, which is also legal in many places but often with different rules. Constitutional carry specifically refers to not needing a permit to carry, concealed or open.

So, why all the fuss? Well, proponents of constitutional carry argue that it simplifies things and makes it easier for law-abiding citizens to protect themselves. They believe that requiring permits creates unnecessary hurdles and costs for people who are already following the law. It’s also seen as a way to send a message that the right to bear arms is taken seriously. On the other hand, opponents sometimes worry about the impact on public safety. They argue that permits provide a way to screen out people who might be a danger to others, and that without those screenings, there could be an increase in gun violence or accidental shootings. There are definitely strong opinions on both sides, and it's a debate that's been going on for a while. It's important to remember that constitutional carry doesn't mean anyone can carry a gun anywhere. There are still federal and state laws that restrict who can own a firearm and where you can carry it. For example, convicted felons are generally not allowed to own guns, and you can't carry a gun in certain places like federal buildings or schools. In the next section, we'll get into the details of Missouri's specific laws, so you'll know exactly how it all works here.

Missouri and Constitutional Carry: The Details

Okay, so is Missouri a constitutional carry state in 2023? The answer is yes! Missouri officially adopted constitutional carry in 2020. This means that if you're a Missouri resident (or even a non-resident in some cases - we'll get to that!), you can carry a concealed handgun without a permit, as long as you meet certain requirements. However, you still need to be legally allowed to own a firearm in the first place. You can't be a felon, have a domestic violence restraining order against you, or be otherwise prohibited under state or federal law. So, if you can legally own a handgun, you can generally carry it concealed in Missouri without a permit, as of now. This is a pretty significant change from the past, when you needed a permit to carry concealed. Before constitutional carry, you had to go through a process that involved training, background checks, and fees. Now, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements, you're good to go. It's worth noting that Missouri's constitutional carry law also allows for "permitless open carry," meaning you can carry a handgun openly without a permit too, as long as you're legally allowed to possess a handgun. This applies to both residents and non-residents, with some specific stipulations that we'll touch on later. But first, let's look at who is eligible to carry.

Who Can Carry in Missouri Under Constitutional Carry?

As you might imagine, there are some restrictions, even with constitutional carry. Here's a quick rundown of who is generally eligible to carry a concealed handgun in Missouri without a permit:

You must be at least 19 years old: While the legal age to purchase a handgun in Missouri is 21, the law allows those 19 and older to carry concealed. Keep in mind that federal law still requires you to be 21 to purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer. This is a bit of a gray area, so be sure you understand the difference!
You must be legally allowed to own a firearm: This means you can't be a convicted felon, have a domestic violence restraining order, or be otherwise prohibited under federal or state law. Basically, if you can pass a background check to purchase a gun, you're likely good to go.
You must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs: This one is a no-brainer. You can't be carrying a handgun while impaired. This is true whether you have a permit or not. Don't do it, guys.
You must carry the handgun in a concealed manner: Obviously! This is the whole point of constitutional concealed carry. You can't be flashing it around for all to see. If you want to open carry, you still can, as long as you're allowed to possess a handgun.

Non-Resident Carry

As of 2023, Missouri’s constitutional carry law allows non-residents to carry a concealed handgun without a permit, provided they meet the same eligibility requirements as residents. So, if you're visiting from another state, and you're legally able to own a handgun in your state, you can likely carry concealed in Missouri, as long as you meet Missouri's requirements. But always double-check the latest laws and regulations before you carry, and make sure you're aware of any reciprocity agreements between your home state and Missouri. Laws can change, you know!

Where You Can't Carry in Missouri

Just because Missouri is a constitutional carry state doesn't mean you can carry a handgun everywhere. There are still plenty of places where carrying a firearm is prohibited. These restrictions are in place to maintain public safety, and it's essential to know them. Here's a general list of places where you cannot carry a concealed handgun in Missouri, even with constitutional carry:

Federal Buildings: This includes post offices, courthouses, and other federal facilities. Federal law generally prohibits firearms in these locations.
Schools and Childcare Facilities: Carrying a handgun on school property or in childcare facilities is generally prohibited, unless you have specific authorization (like being a law enforcement officer or have permission from the school). This includes any building that is part of a school.
Government Buildings: State and local government buildings may have their own policies regarding firearms. Check with the specific building to understand their rules. This can vary widely depending on the local government. Some government buildings will allow carry, while others will not.
Courthouses and Courtrooms: Carrying a firearm in a courthouse or courtroom is usually prohibited, except for law enforcement officers or those with specific authorization from the court.
Polling Places: You generally can't carry a firearm within a polling place on election day.
Places Where Alcohol is the Primary Business: Bars and other establishments that serve alcohol may prohibit firearms, especially if they make more than 50% of their revenue from alcohol sales. This depends on the specific business and any posted signs.
Private Property: Property owners can generally prohibit firearms on their property. This can be done through signs or by informing you verbally. If a property owner tells you not to carry on their property, you must comply. If you fail to do so, it's trespassing.
Other Restricted Areas: Some specific locations, such as airports (beyond the secure areas) and other sensitive areas, may have restrictions on firearms.

It is important to pay close attention to posted signs. If a business or property has a sign posted that prohibits firearms, you should not carry a handgun there. Failing to comply with these restrictions could lead to criminal charges.

Training and Other Considerations

Okay, so you're probably thinking, "Do I need to get any training to carry a handgun in Missouri under constitutional carry?" The answer is: no, you don't need training to carry, but it's highly recommended. While constitutional carry doesn't require a permit or formal training, it's always a good idea to get some. Handling a firearm responsibly is about more than just knowing how to pull the trigger. It's about knowing how to handle it safely, how to store it, and what the laws are surrounding its use. Taking a firearms safety course can teach you these things and much more. It also helps you understand the legal ramifications of using a firearm, and how to make the right decisions in a high-stress situation. A good course will cover things like:

Safe Gun Handling: This includes the basic rules of gun safety, such as always keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, treating every gun as if it's loaded, and keeping your finger off the trigger until you're ready to shoot. This is the cornerstone of responsible gun ownership.
Marksmanship: Improving your shooting skills will make you more accurate and confident. A good instructor will help you with your stance, grip, sight alignment, and trigger control.
Legal Aspects of Self-Defense: Understanding the laws regarding self-defense is crucial. This includes knowing when you're legally justified in using deadly force and what the legal consequences might be.
Situational Awareness: Being aware of your surroundings and potential threats is essential for self-defense. This involves observing people and things in the environment. A good training course can help you develop this skill.

Other Things to Consider

Besides training, there are a few other things you should keep in mind:

Know the Laws: While you don't need a permit to carry, you're still responsible for knowing the laws. Research the specific laws in Missouri regarding firearms, including those about where you can carry, when you can use deadly force, and what the penalties are for violating those laws. It's important to keep up-to-date with any changes. The best way to do this is to check the Missouri Revised Statutes and consult with a legal professional who specializes in firearms law.
Practice: Regularly practice with your handgun to maintain your shooting skills and become more comfortable with it. Practice can be at a shooting range or with a training course.
Carry Responsibly: Always carry your handgun in a safe and responsible manner. This includes keeping it concealed, following all applicable laws, and being aware of your surroundings.
Consider a Concealed Carry Class: Even though you don't need it, a concealed carry class can provide valuable training on firearms safety, marksmanship, and the legal aspects of carrying a handgun. A class is a good idea to build a solid foundation. You'll learn the fundamentals of handling, storing, and using a firearm safely.
Stay Informed: Laws can change. Always stay updated on the latest laws and regulations. You can do this by checking the official government websites, subscribing to legal updates, or consulting with an attorney.

Conclusion: Navigating Constitutional Carry in Missouri

So, there you have it, guys! Missouri is a constitutional carry state in 2023, and you now have a good grasp of the basic information. Remember to always prioritize safety and responsibility. Understand the laws, consider getting training, and practice good judgment. Constitutional carry is a serious topic, and it's essential to treat it that way. By following these guidelines, you can exercise your Second Amendment rights responsibly and safely while keeping yourself and your community safe.

Ultimately, whether you choose to carry a handgun is a personal decision. If you do choose to carry, make sure you are prepared, educated, and committed to being a responsible gun owner. Stay safe out there!