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Minnesota Concealed Carry Laws |
Minnesota operates under a generally shall-issue policy for handgun permits, where a sheriff can only deny a permit if there is a substantial likelihood that the applicant poses a danger to themselves or others. Permits are issued by the Sheriff’s office in the applicant’s county of residence.
No permit, background check, or firearm registration is required for buying a handgun from a private individual in Minnesota.
Both open carry and concealed carry are legal with a Minnesota Permit to Carry a Pistol (PCP) or a permit from a state that Minnesota honors. There is no stipulation in the law regarding whether the weapon must be concealed. A federal judge invalidated a Minnesota law on March 31, 2023, that required individuals to be at least 21 years old to obtain a permit to carry a handgun in public, ruling it violated the Second Amendment.
Resident and non-resident permits are available, and non-residents can apply at any sheriff’s office. Permits are not necessary for transporting a firearm, keeping it at home, or in a place of business. Minnesota honors permits from states with similar requirements in terms of reciprocity.
The intentional taking of another’s life is legal in Minnesota only if necessary to prevent great bodily harm or death to oneself or others, or to prevent the commission of a felony in one’s home.
[Minn. Stat. §§ 609.06 & 609.065]
Minnesota law imposes a duty to retreat, allowing the use of deadly force only as a last resort when feeling threatened. While Minnesota does not have a Castle Doctrine law explicitly, it recognizes similar principles. Deadly force is permissible if there is a reasonable belief of great bodily harm, death, or to prevent a felony in one’s home.
Reasonable force can be used in various circumstances or when reasonably believed to exist, including:
- Resisting or aiding in the resistance of an offense against oneself.
- Protecting lawful possession of property.
- Lawful authority over a child or pupil for restraint or correction.
- School employees or bus drivers to prevent harm to others.
- Common carriers expelling passengers who refuse lawful requirements with regard to personal safety.
Magazine Limits for Handguns?
Does Minnesota have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?
No. Minnesota does not have magazine capacity restrictions.
Constitutional Carry?
Does Minnesota allow constitutional carry?
No. Minnesota does not allow constitutional carry.
Ammunition Restrictions?
Does Minnesota have ammunition restrictions?
Yes. Metal-penetrating bullets cannot be used during the commission of a crime.
Gun Permit Licensure?
If Minnesota requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued?
Minnesota gun laws operate, generally, on a shall-issue policy.
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?
What is the minimum age in Minnesota to get a concealed carry permit?
You must be at least 21 years old to get a concealed carry permit in Minnesota.
Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?
Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Minnesota with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)?
No. A concealed carry permit does not allow you to carry weapons other than firearms.
Tasers or Stun Guns?
Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Minnesota?
Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit, but a background check is required.
Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?
Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Minnesota?
Yes, a person may possess and use an authorized tear gas compound in the legal exercise of reasonable force.
Open Carry Permitted?
Is open carry permitted in Minnesota?
Yes. Open carry is allowed with a Minnesota license to carry or a permit from a state Minnesota recognizes.
Carry/Possess at a Hotel?
Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Minnesota?
An innkeeper may refuse service to anyone believed to be bringing firearms into the hotel. Contact the hotel directly to inquire about their concealed carry policy.
Store in a Vehicle in an Employee Parking Lot?
Does Minnesota have laws regarding storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?
Employers or postsecondary institutions cannot prohibit lawful carry or possession of firearms in parking facilities.
Carry in Vehicle?
Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Minnesota?
Yes, with a Minnesota license to carry or a recognized state permit. Alternatively, it must be unloaded and secured in a trunk, gunbox, or case.
Carry at Roadside Rest Areas?
Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Minnesota?
A loaded handgun requires a Minnesota carry license or recognized permit.
Carry in State/National Parks, State/National Forests, and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)?
Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, forests, and WMAs in Minnesota?
Yes, with a Minnesota carry license or recognized permit. Exceptions apply to certain WMAs.
Carry in Bars/Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?
Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Minnesota?
Yes, with a Minnesota carry license or recognized permit, unless otherwise posted. You must not be under the influence (>0.04 BAC).
Do You Have a Duty to Notify a Police Officer That You're Carrying a Concealed Firearm in Minnesota?
There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Minnesota unless the officer asks.
Is My Minnesota Driver’s License Linked to My Minnesota Carry Permit?
Yes. Your Minnesota driver’s license is linked to your Minnesota pistol carry permit.
Does Minnesota Issue Concealed Carry Permits to Non-Residents?
Yes. Non-residents may apply for permits following the same process as Minnesota residents.
Does Minnesota Allow the Public to Access Concealed Carry Registry Information Through Public Records Law?
No, however, the information is available for law enforcement.
Does Minnesota Have a Red Flag Law?
Yes, as of January 1, 2024.
Does Minnesota Have Preemption Laws Related to Concealed Carry (i.e., Does State Law Supersede Local Laws Regarding the Possession of Handguns)?
Yes. There is full state preemption of all gun laws, except that local governments may regulate the discharge of firearms.
Does Minnesota State Law Define Brandishing?
No definition of brandishing was found in Minnesota law. However, recklessly handling or using a gun so as to endanger the safety of another, or intentionally pointing a gun, whether loaded or unloaded, at another person is considered a crime.
Are "No Weapons Allowed" Signs Enforced in Minnesota?
No. It is considered a petty misdemeanor if a reasonable request is made that firearms not be brought into the establishment or if a conspicuous sign is prominently posted at every entrance and there is a refusal to leave.
Does Minnesota Have Laws Regarding Carrying a Concealed Firearm While Using Alcohol or a Controlled Substance?
Carry is prohibited while in a public place under certain conditions, including being under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.
As a Responsibly Armed American, Regardless of the Laws in Your State, It Is Unwise to Carry While Under the Influence of Any Substance That Could Impair Your Judgment or Reaction Times.
Here's the revised FAQs list with extra spaces added after each line:
Does my current Minnesota concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?
No.
Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a permit?
Yes. A permit is not required for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm, to keep or carry a firearm at a business, dwelling house, premises or on land possessed by the person. A landlord cannot restrict the lawful carry or possession of firearms by tenants or their guests.
Are background checks required for private gun sales in Minnesota?
Yes. As of August 1st, 2023, both the owner and the recipient must fill out a record of transfer about the gun and themselves, and authorities will have 30 days to process the transfer. A sheriff or chief of police can deny an application. They must give the applicant written notification on why there was a denial, including the source of the information. The applicant can appeal the decision but has only 20 days to do so and will be responsible for their own legal and court fees.
Do handguns need to be registered in Minnesota?
No. Handguns do not need to be registered in Minnesota.
Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Minnesota?
There is no waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Minnesota with a permit or a Permit to Purchase/Transfer. Without one of those permits, upon the purchase of a handgun from a FFL, there is a five- to seven-day waiting period (unless the chief of police or sheriff waives all or a portion of the waiting period).
Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Minnesota?
Anyone acquiring a handgun through a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) must have a Minnesota Permit to Carry a Pistol or a Permit to Purchase/Transfer a Firearm. A permit to carry is valid for five years and authorizes unlimited purchases within that time period. Without one of those permits, the FFL must perform a background check.
What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Minnesota?
18 years old.
To buy or transfer ownership of a firearm in Minnesota, you must have a Minnesota Permit to Carry a Pistol or a Permit to Purchase/Transfer a Firearm. The application for a Permit to Purchase/Transfer a Firearm must be submitted in person to your local police chief or county sheriff’s office. You must also present your Minnesota driver’s license or state-issued photo ID.
After your application has been submitted, your local police chief or county sheriff’s office will run a background check. Generally, this process takes 7 days to complete.
Upon clearing the background check, you will be issued a Permit to Purchase/Transfer a Firearm through the mail, which will be valid for 1 year from the date it is issued.
For single-purchase transactions, many gun shops in the state will allow you to apply for a permit to purchase directly at the store. You will still be required to pass a background check before making a purchase. A gun shop may charge for this service. Not every gun shop in the state will process permit applications, per their own discretion.
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
What are the fees associated with obtaining or renewing a Minnesota permit to carry?
New permit to carry will be determined by the county sheriff, not to exceed $100. Renewal permit (applied for before the expiration date of a current permit to carry) will be determined by the county sheriff, not to exceed $75.
What are the requirements to obtain a Minnesota permit to carry?
An applicant must:
- Be at least 18 years of age. (On March 31, 2023, a federal judge struck down a Minnesota law requiring a person to be at least 21 before obtaining a permit to carry a handgun in public, finding it violated the right to bear arms under the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution)
- Complete an application form.
- Not be prohibited from possessing a firearm under Minnesota law.
- Not be listed in the criminal gang investigation system.
- Be a resident of the county from which he or she is requesting a permit, if residing in Minnesota (Non-residents may apply to any Minnesota county sheriff).
- Provide certificate of completed authorized firearms training.
- Meet federal law requirements. *Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of Minnesota.
How long does it take to process a Minnesota permit to carry?
30 days (but can take up to 6 weeks).
What should I do if I move to or from Minnesota and have a permit to carry?
Moving to Minnesota and interested in applying for a resident permit? You can apply for your permit at any time. In order to apply for a resident permit, you may need to provide a Minnesota driver's license or state ID. Moving from Minnesota and have a Minnesota resident permit? Does that permit transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Minnesota permit remains valid? If a person with a Minnesota permit to concealed carry establishes residency in another state, the permit is valid until it expires provided he or she submits the above referenced name/address change form.
What should I do if my Minnesota permit to carry is lost or stolen?
Within 30 days of having lost or destroyed the permit card, the permit holder must notify the issuing sheriff’s office of the loss or destruction. The permit holder must provide a notarized statement that the card has been lost or destroyed. Failure to provide notification as required is a petty misdemeanor. The permit holder may obtain a replacement permit card by paying $10 to the sheriff.
How long is a Minnesota permit to carry valid?
5 years.
Where can I find the application for a Minnesota permit to carry?
You can find the application here.
Can non-residents apply for a Minnesota concealed carry permit?
Yes, non-residents may apply to any Minnesota county sheriff by following the process below.
What should I do if I change my name or address while holding a Minnesota permit to carry?
Within 30 days after changing permanent address, the permit holder must notify the issuing Sheriff’s office of the change, loss, or destruction. Failure to do so is a petty misdemeanor. The permit holder may obtain an updated permit at a cost of $10.
Step 1: Renewals are the responsibility of the permittee. Permit holders may renew their permit beginning 90 days prior to the expiration date of the current permit. After the expiration date, but within 30 days after the expiration, you can renew your permit by paying an additional late fee of $10. 31 days after expiration, you will no longer be able to renew your permit, but will have to apply for a new gun permit. For late renewals, it is important to note that your expired permit is not valid until you receive your new card.
Step 2: Complete your firearm training course within one year of renewal.
Step 3: Download the application or pick it up from the county clerk's office.
Step 4: Go to the county clerk's office of the county in which you reside, or for out-of-state permit holders, to any Sheriff’s Department in the State of Minnesota and sign the application under oath. Include the following documents:
- Training certificate; and
- A copy of your current driver's license, state identification card, or the photo page of your passport (non-U.S. citizens must present an I-551 or I-151 card).
Pay the fee. The county clerk will provide a receipt for payment of fees.
Step 5: The county clerk shall issue a license or notice of statutory disqualification within 45 days after the date the applicant has classifiable fingerprints taken.
This format presents the information clearly and concisely for easy reference.
Bars and Restaurants: Yes, unless posted AND provided you are not under the influence.
Vehicle: No, not without a permit/license.
Roadside Rest Areas: Yes, with a permit.
State Parks, Forest Recreation Areas, and Wildlife Management Areas: Yes, except for the following WMAs: The Bayport WMA, the Hastings WMA, and the Raguet WMA.
Private Plane: Yes.
Places of Worship: Minnesota courts have ruled that a church may prohibit firearms from its property, including parking facilities and areas owned or operated by the church, and may notify its employees and the public in any manner it chooses.
Places off-limits even with a permit/license:
- Public or private elementary, middle, or secondary school building and grounds.
- School buses.
- Portions of a building or facility under the temporary, exclusive control of a public or private school where signs are posted. [Minn. Stat. § 609.66]
- State correctional facilities.
- State hospitals and grounds.
- Private establishments that have posted a sign banning guns on their premises.
- Places of employment, public or private, if the employer restricts the carry or possession of firearms by its employees. [Minn. Stat. § 624.714]
- Child care centers while children are present [Minn. Admin. Rule 9502.0435 Subp. 5].
- Any public place when under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or any combination thereof [Minn. Stat. § 624.7142].
- Minnesota Zoological Garden [Minn. Admin. Rule 9900.5500].
- Innkeepers may refuse service to any person reasonably believed to be bringing firearms into the hotel [Minn. Stat. § 327.73].
- State game refuges [Minn. Stat. § 97A.091].
- The Bayport WMA in Washington County, the Hastings WMA in Dakota County, and the Raguet WMA in Scott and Carver Counties [Minn. Admin. Rule 6230.0200 Subp. 4].
- Any jail, lockup, or correctional facility [Minn. Stat. § 641.165].
- Minnesota courts have ruled that a church may prohibit firearms from its property, including parking facilities and areas owned or operated by the church, and may notify its employees and the public in any manner it chooses.
- Any place where carrying firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation.
This format organizes the information clearly and succinctly for easy understanding.
Answer: Although Minnesota Statute makes it illegal to wear a mask with the intention to conceal one’s identity, Benton County Sheriff Troy Heck has stated that under this statute, it is legal to wear a mask for medical treatment, including to prevent the spread of COVID-19. [Minn. Stat. § 609.735]
Answer: Yes, in Minnesota, it is illegal to prevent or disrupt another person lawfully taking or preparing to take a wild animal or enjoying the outdoors under certain circumstances. [Minn. Stat. § 97A.037]
Answer: Switchblades are illegal, but knives with utility purposes are generally legal to carry. It is illegal to recklessly use a knife designed as a weapon. Certain locations such as schools, school buses, courthouses, and state capitol buildings have specific restrictions. [Minn. Stat. §§ 609.02, 609.66]
Answer: Yes, you can carry concealed while bow hunting in Minnesota if you have a Minnesota license to carry or a permit recognized by Minnesota.
Answer: Yes, you can carry concealed while shotgun/rifle hunting in Minnesota if you have a Minnesota license to carry or a permit recognized by Minnesota, except when shining. [Per Pg 23-24 of 2018 MN Hunting & Trapping Regulations]
This format organizes the information clearly and succinctly for easy understanding.