Missouri Gun Laws
Constitutional carry. No magazine limit. Castle doctrine and stand your ground.
Last reviewed against official sources on 2026-09-25. Official state source.
Missouri allows constitutional carry for adults 19+. The state has both castle doctrine and stand your ground protections. No magazine limits, assault weapon bans, or waiting periods exist.
Key facts
- Concealed Carry: Constitutional carry — no permit required for adults 19+ (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.030)
- Open Carry: Permitted without a permit; local restrictions may apply (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.030)
- Permit to Purchase: Not required
- Assault Weapon Ban: No ban
- Magazine Limit: No limit
- Waiting Period: None
- Universal Background Check: Not required for private sales
- Red Flag Law (ERPO): No state ERPO law
- Castle Doctrine: Yes (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 563.031)
- Stand Your Ground: Yes (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 563.031)
- Concealed Carry Reciprocity: Honors permits from all other states; visitors 19+ can carry concealed here without one anyway
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to carry in Missouri?
No. Missouri is a constitutional carry state. Adults 19 and older may carry concealed or openly without a permit.
Does Missouri require background checks for private sales?
No. Private firearm sales in Missouri do not require a background check.
Does Missouri have a waiting period?
No. Missouri does not impose a waiting period for firearm purchases.
Does Missouri have a red flag law?
No. Missouri has not enacted an extreme risk protection order law.
Does Missouri honor concealed carry permits from other states?
Yes. Missouri recognizes valid concealed carry permits from any other state. Because Missouri is a constitutional carry state, an adult 19 or older who can legally possess a firearm doesn't need a permit — from Missouri or elsewhere — to carry concealed here.
Not legal advice. Laws change; verify with official sources.