North Carolina Statewide Rule

North Carolina Vehicle Firearm Carry Rules

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across North Carolina (2026)

Key Facts

Note: NCGS 14-269 governs concealed carry in vehicles
Operator License: Import/storage/sales need license
Permit/License: Open visible carry inside vehicle is permitted
Permit/License: Concealed handgun permit allows on-person carry
Note: State preempts local vehicle carry rules

Last verified: August 20, 2026Source: North Carolina General Assembly

Summary

North Carolina permits transporting firearms in a vehicle, but a handgun carried concealed within reach generally requires a concealed handgun permit under NCGS 14-269 and 14-415.10.

This prohibition does not apply to a person who has a concealed handgun permit issued in accordance with Article 54B of this Chapter, has a concealed handgun permit considered valid under G.S. 14-415.24, or is exempt from obtaining a permit pursuant to G.S. 14-415.25, provided the weapon is a handgun, is in a closed compartment or container within the person's locked vehicle, and the vehicle is in a parking area that is owned or leased by State government. A person may unlock the vehicle to enter or exit the vehicle, provided the handgun remains in the closed compartment at all times and the vehicle is locked immediately following the entrance or exit.

Source: North Carolina General AssemblyView official code

Full Breakdown

NCGS 14-269 makes it unlawful to willfully and intentionally carry a concealed handgun about one's person off one's premises without a valid concealed handgun permit. Inside a private passenger vehicle, a handgun carried within reach of the driver or passenger and out of plain view is treated as concealed. Lawful options include open and visible carry within the vehicle, storage in a locked container, the glove compartment, or trunk, or carry by a permit holder under NCGS 14-415.10 et seq. Long guns may be transported but cannot be loaded on most public roadways under separate hunting and traffic laws. Local governments are preempted from enacting conflicting rules under NCGS 14-409.40.

Violations & Penalties

Carrying a concealed handgun in a vehicle without a permit is a Class 2 misdemeanor for a first offense and a Class H felony for subsequent offenses under NCGS 14-269.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep a handgun in my glove box without a permit in North Carolina?

Yes. Storing a handgun in a closed glove compartment, console, or trunk is generally lawful under NCGS 14-269 even without a concealed handgun permit.

Can I carry a loaded handgun on my hip while driving?

Open and visible carry inside your own vehicle is generally lawful, but if the handgun is concealed on your person you need a concealed handgun permit under NCGS 14-415.10.

Sources

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