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Maine Statewide Rule

Maine Firearms Vehicle Carry Rules Statewide

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Maine (2026)

Key Facts

Statute
25 MRS section 2001-A
Permitless Carry
Age 21+ permitted
Military Exception
Age 18+ for military
Officer Disclosure
Required when carrying
Local Preemption
Local rules preempted
Last verified: August 20, 2026Source: Maine Legislature

Summary

Maine permits handgun carry in motor vehicles by lawful possessors under 25 MRS section 2001-A, with permitless concealed carry available to qualifying residents 21 and older.

E. A person who is 21 years of age or older and is not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm or is 18 years of age or older and under 21 years of age and is on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States or the National Guard or is an honorably discharged veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States or the National Guard and is not otherwise prohibited from carrying a firearm may have in or on a vehicle a loaded pistol or revolver.

Source: Maine LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Title 25 MRS section 2001-A governs the carrying of concealed handguns in Maine, including in motor vehicles. Persons 21 and older who are not prohibited from possessing firearms may carry a concealed handgun without a permit, including inside a personal vehicle. Active and honorably discharged military members 18 and older qualify under the same permitless carry rules. Drivers stopped by law enforcement must immediately disclose the presence of a loaded firearm. Long guns transported in vehicles must follow Title 12 hunting laws regarding loaded firearms in motor vehicles. State preemption under 25 MRS section 2011 bars municipal vehicle-carry restrictions beyond state law.

Violations & Penalties

Failure to disclose a loaded handgun to law enforcement is a Class D crime; unlawful concealed carry by prohibited persons may be charged as a Class C or D crime under Title 17-A.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep a loaded handgun in my car in Maine?
Yes. Adults 21 and older who can lawfully possess firearms may carry a concealed loaded handgun in a vehicle without a permit.
Must I tell a Maine officer about a firearm in the car?
Yes. Drivers carrying a loaded firearm must immediately inform law enforcement during a traffic stop under 25 MRS section 2003.

Sources

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