Indiana Statewide Rule
Indiana Vehicle Carry of Handguns Statute
Key Facts
- Authority
- Permitless vehicle carry for adults 18+ under IC 35-47-2
- Rule
- Effective July 1, 2022 via HEA 1296
- Parking
- Long guns generally unregulated for vehicle transport
- Authority
- Local vehicle carry rules preempted by IC 35-47-11.1-2
- Authority
- Prohibited-person and location rules still apply
Summary
Indiana allows lawful adults at least 18 to carry a handgun in a vehicle without a permit, consistent with the state's permitless carry framework and firearms preemption.
(3) the person carries the handgun in a vehicle that is owned, leased, rented, or otherwise legally controlled by the person, if the handgun is: (A) unloaded; (B) not readily accessible; and (C) secured in a case; (4) the person carries the handgun while lawfully present in a vehicle that is owned, leased, rented, or otherwise legally controlled by another person, if the handgun is: (A) unloaded; (B) not readily accessible; and (C) secured in a case; or
Full Breakdown
Under IC 35-47-2, Indiana permits adults 18 and older who are not prohibited persons to carry a handgun on or about their person, including in a vehicle they own or control, without a state-issued License to Carry. Effective July 1, 2022, House Enrolled Act 1296 removed the licensing requirement for general carry. Long guns are not regulated for transport. Carrying onto school property, into courthouses, secured airport areas, and certain federal sites remains restricted by separate statutes. Local governments cannot impose stricter vehicle carry rules due to firearms preemption in IC 35-47-11.1-2. Drivers must still comply with prohibited-person rules and federal restrictions.
Violations & Penalties
Unlawful carrying of a handgun by a prohibited person is generally a Level 5 or Level 6 felony under IC 35-47-2-1; pointing a firearm is a Level 6 felony under IC 35-47-4-3.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to keep a handgun in my car in Indiana?
Can a city or county restrict guns in vehicles more strictly?
Sources
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