Missouri Statewide Rule
Missouri Firearm Vehicle Carry Statewide Rules
Key Facts
- Rsmo
- RSMo 571.030 permits vehicle carry without a permit at age 19+
- Loaded Firearms May
- Loaded firearms may be transported in any part of the vehicle
- Local Rules Cannot
- Local rules cannot impose stricter vehicle-carry restrictions
- Intoxicated Carry Remains
- Intoxicated carry remains prohibited under state law
- Restricted Destinations Like
- Restricted destinations like courthouses still apply
Summary
Missouri RSMo 571.030 allows adults 19 and older to carry concealed firearms in vehicles without a permit, and state preemption blocks cities from adding stricter local vehicle-carry rules.
Subdivision (1) of subsection 1 of this section does not apply to any person nineteen years of age or older or eighteen years of age or older and a member of the United States Armed Forces, or honorably discharged from the United States Armed Forces, transporting a concealable firearm in the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle, so long as such concealable firearm is otherwise lawfully possessed, nor when the actor is also in possession of an exposed firearm or projectile weapon for the lawful pursuit of game, or is in his or her dwelling unit or upon premises over which the actor has possession, authority or control, or is traveling in a continuous journey peaceably through this state.
Full Breakdown
Under RSMo 571.030, Missouri's permitless concealed carry framework extends to motor vehicles for any person 19 or older (18 for active military) who can lawfully possess a firearm. Drivers and passengers may transport loaded handguns and long guns inside the passenger compartment, glove box, console, or trunk without a special permit. The unlawful use of weapons statute carves out exceptions for transportation in vehicles, including travel between a residence and vehicle. RSMo 21.750 firearm preemption also bars municipalities from imposing additional vehicle-carry restrictions, locking the vehicle-carry standard at the state level. Carrying remains prohibited into statutorily restricted destinations like courthouses, schools, and federal buildings even when transit by vehicle is lawful, and intoxicated carry is forbidden under RSMo 571.030.
Violations & Penalties
Carrying a firearm into a prohibited location after lawful vehicle transport can be a misdemeanor or felony. Carrying while intoxicated under RSMo 571.030 is a class B misdemeanor, escalating with aggravating factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a loaded gun in my car in Missouri?
Can a Missouri city restrict guns in cars within city limits?
Sources
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