FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The Missouri Attorney General’s Office cannot act as legal counsel for private individuals. If you have specific legal questions, you should contact a private attorney.

Concealed Carry Reciprocity

I am a convicted felon and want to know what firearms I can possess.

Section 571.070 of the Missouri Revised States provides that convicted felons may not possess firearms. Federal law also prohibits felons from possessing firearms. If you have obtained a restoration of firearms rights or had your legal status altered in some other way since your felony conviction, you may wish to speak to a private attorney about your situation to obtain further guidance. Unfortunately, this office is not permitted to provide legal advice regarding the potential legal remedies that may be available for you to restore your rights.

I am a convicted felon and would like to know if I can hunt with a black powder rifle or muzzle loader.

Felony convictions do not result in the loss of hunting rights; they result in the loss of the right to possess a firearm. However, felons may possess "antique firearms" pursuant to section 571.070, RSMo. "Antique firearm" is defined in Section 571.010 of the Missouri Revised Statutes.

We cannot provide you with a legal opinion about whether a specific firearm qualifies as an “antique firearm”. You should consult with a private attorney if you would like such opinion.

I am traveling to your state and will carry my firearms with me. What are the laws on carrying guns in your state?

Missouri’s weapon laws can be found in Section 571 of the Missouri Revised Statutes. Specific inquiries should be directed to a private attorney or the sheriff of the county you are going to visit.

What are Missouri's laws on open carry?

Article 1, Section 23 of the Missouri Constitution provides "that the right of every citizen to keep and bear arms in the defense of his home, person, and property, or when lawfully summoned in the aid of civil power, shall not be questioned."

Section 21.750, RSMo provides that a political subdivision, such as a city or town, may regulate the open carry and discharge of firearms. For copies of local ordinances, you may check with your city police department or clerk for assistance.

Additionally, Section 571.037 of the Missouri Revised Statutes pertains to Missouri’s open carry regulations.

Does Missouri require a concealed carry permit to carry a concealed firearm?

Missouri no longer has laws prohibiting the carrying of a concealed firearm if the person is legally able to possess a firearm. However, Missouri does have restrictions on where a person can carry a concealed firearm. Please refer to Section 571.107 of the Missouri Revised Statutes for further information. It is recommended you speak to a private attorney if you require further legal opinion on this issue.

What are Missouri’s laws regarding the sale and purchase of firearms by Missouri residents and non-residents?

Missouri defaults to federal law with regard to the sale and purchase of firearms. Please refer to Section 571.085 and Section 571.087 of the Missouri Revised Statutes for further information.

You may also wish to inquire with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms for guidance on federal law.

Where can I get more information on the application procedure for concealed carry permits and firearm safety training courses?

Please refer to Section 571.101 of the Missouri Revised Statutes for further information. Additionally, you can contact the sheriff department where you reside for additional information.

Are there places where concealed carry is prohibited, even with a valid permit?

Section 571.107 of the Missouri Revised Statutes provides places individuals are not permitted to carry concealed firearms.