New York Statewide Rule

Firearm Vehicle Carry Rules in New York

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across New York (2026)

Key Facts

Handgun in vehicle: Pistol license required
Long gun transport: Must be unloaded
Governing statute: Penal Law Article 265
Sensitive location parking: Generally prohibited
Local override: Not permitted

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: New York State Senate

Summary

New York Penal Law treats a vehicle as a public place for firearm purposes, requiring a valid pistol license to transport a handgun and strict storage rules for long guns and ammunition statewide.

2. No person shall store or otherwise leave a rifle, shotgun, or firearm out of such person's immediate possession or control inside a vehicle without first removing the ammunition from and securely locking such rifle, shotgun, or firearm in an appropriate safe storage depository out of sight from outside of the vehicle; provided, however, this subdivision shall not apply to a police officer as such term is defined in subdivision thirty-four of section 1.20 of the criminal procedure law, a qualified law enforcement officer authorized to carry concealed firearms pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 926B, or a person in the military service of the United States or the state of New York when such police officer, qualified law enforcement officer, or person in such military service is acting in the course of such person's official duty or employment and otherwise complying with any applicable standards or requirements pertaining to the storage of such rifle, shotgun, or firearm.

Source: New York State SenateView official code

Full Breakdown

Under Penal Law Article 265, possession of a loaded handgun in any vehicle without a New York pistol license is criminal possession of a firearm, regardless of whether the gun is on the person, in the glove box, or in the trunk. Licensed handgun owners may transport their pistol consistent with the terms of their license, but the Concealed Carry Improvement Act bars carry in sensitive locations and on most private property without owner consent. Long guns must be transported unloaded; rifles and shotguns cannot be carried loaded in or on a motor vehicle under Environmental Conservation Law § 11-0931. The SAFE Act prohibits leaving a loaded firearm out of the owner's immediate possession or control where it could be accessed by a prohibited person.

Violations & Penalties

Unlicensed possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle is a class C violent felony with mandatory minimum prison time; transporting a loaded long gun is a misdemeanor under the Environmental Conservation Law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep a loaded handgun in my car in New York without a pistol license?

No. Possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle without a valid New York pistol license is a felony under Penal Law § 265.03, even if the firearm is locked in the glove compartment or trunk.

How must I transport a rifle or shotgun in New York?

Long guns must be unloaded when carried in or on a motor vehicle. Environmental Conservation Law § 11-0931 makes it a misdemeanor to transport a loaded rifle or shotgun in a vehicle on a public highway.

Does my pistol license let me park at any sensitive location?

No. Penal Law § 265.01-e prohibits possession of a firearm in many sensitive locations such as schools, government buildings, and public transit, including in vehicles parked on those properties.

Sources

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