New York Penal Law section 265 requires firearms transported through New York City to be unloaded and inside a locked container separate from ammunition. Drivers without an NYC license may not stop, refuel, or remain in the city beyond direct transit.
Under Penal Law section 265.20(a)(13), a non-resident may transport an unloaded long gun through NYC only if it is in a locked case, ammunition is stored separately, and the trip is direct and continuous. Handguns require an NYC-issued carry license to remain in the vehicle; the federal FOPA safe-passage rule under 18 USC section 926A allows narrow interstate transit but federal courts have construed it strictly in NYC. Loaded firearms in vehicles violate Penal Law section 265.03. Local NYPD enforcement at bridges, tunnels, and airports is aggressive, and travelers should not stop overnight or sightsee while armed.
Carrying a loaded firearm in a vehicle without an NYC license is a Class C felony under Penal Law section 265.03; an unsecured unloaded handgun violates Admin Code section 10-301 with misdemeanor or felony exposure and vehicle forfeiture.
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