Carrying Firearms in Vehicles: Missouri Law Explained

Missouri is a constitutional carry state with permissive vehicle transport laws—but critical distinctions exist between open carry, concealed carry, and prohibited locations.

Current Law (Post-2017 SB 656)

Permit Options

• Concealed Carry Permit (CCP): 8-hr training, background check, $93 (5 yrs). Honored in 37 states.
• Enhanced CCP: 16-hr training; honored in 39 states; allows carry in some restricted zones
• No permit needed for Missouri residents 19+ (18+ military) for open/concealed carry

Where You CAN Carry in Vehicle

• Personal vehicle (anywhere: console, glove box, door pocket, seat, trunk)
• Rental/borrowed vehicle (with owner permission)
• Commercial vehicle (if employer permits)
• Parked on public streets, private property (with owner consent)

Where You CANNOT Carry (Even in Vehicle)

• Schools (K-12): Gun-Free School Zones Act (federal) + MO law — 1,000 ft radius
• Courthouses / Courtrooms
• Police/Sheriff stations
• Prisons/jails
• Bars/restaurants with >51% alcohol sales (if consuming)
• Private property with posted prohibition (parking lots included)
• Federal facilities (post offices, VA, military bases)
• Riverboat casinos

Critical Restrictions

• Intoxication: Illegal to carry with BAC ≥0.08% or under influence of drugs
• Prohibited persons: Felons, domestic violence misdemeanants, adjudicated mental health, fugitives, unlawful users
• Minors: Under 19 (18 military) cannot carry concealed without permit

Best Practices

• Keep hands visible during traffic stops; inform officer immediately
• Store securely when leaving vehicle (lockable case, trunk)
• Carry permit + ID even if permitless (eases reciprocity, police interaction)
• Know destination state laws when crossing borders

Missouri gives broad carry rights—but the prohibited places list is where good intentions become felonies. Know the lines.