Missouri carry status overview
Missouri is a permitless carry state. HB 1468, effective January 1, 2017, allows any Missouri resident 19 years of age or older who is legally eligible to possess a firearm to carry concealed without a Concealed Carry Permit (CCP). Note: Missouri's minimum age of 19 is lower than the 21 required in most permitless states.
| Permitless carry | Yes — effective January 1, 2017 |
| Governing law | RSMo § 571.030 |
| Minimum age | 19 years oldLower than most permitless states; active military may qualify at 18 |
| Open carry | Yes — generally permitted statewide |
| Vehicle carry | Allowed without permit |
| Permit available | Yes — Missouri CCP, issued by county sheriff |
Missouri CCP — permit details
| Issuing agency | County sheriff of applicant's county of residence |
| Application | mshp.dps.missouri.gov ↗ |
| Minimum age | 19 |
| Validity | 5 years |
| Training required | Yes — firearms safety course |
| Value for travelers | CCP is honored in 35+ states for reciprocity |
Some St. Louis and Kansas City ordinances may have additional restrictions. Always check local rules in major Missouri cities.
Prohibited locations in Missouri
- K–12 school buildings and grounds
- Courthouses and court facilities
- Police, sheriff, and highway patrol stations
- Correctional facilities
- Airports (secure areas)
- Establishments serving alcohol for on-premises consumption (bars)
- Polling places on election day
- Any location prohibited by federal law
- Private property with posted prohibition
Frequently asked questions — Missouri
Does Missouri require a permit to carry concealed?
No. Since January 1, 2017, any Missouri resident 19 or older who is legally eligible to possess a firearm may carry concealed without a CCP. The CCP remains available and is strongly recommended for travel to other states.
Why is Missouri's minimum age 19 instead of 21?
Missouri set its own minimum age at 19 when it adopted permitless carry — lower than the 21 required in most other permitless carry states. Active military members may qualify at 18. Verify current age requirements with your county sheriff.
Does Missouri honor out-of-state carry permits?
Yes. Missouri recognizes valid carry licenses from all other states. Additionally, as a permitless carry state, any eligible person 19+ may carry concealed in Missouri without any permit.