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Mississippi Concealed Carry Laws |
Mississippi operates as a shall-issue, permitless carry state, where concealed weapons permits are issued by the Department of Public Safety at the state level.
No permit, background check, or firearms registration is required when purchasing a handgun from a private individual. However, a background check is mandatory when buying from a Federal Firearms Dealer.
Open carry is legal in Mississippi without a permit for individuals aged 18 or older who can legally possess a firearm. Firearms must be carried in a holster, sheath, or scabbard that is partially visible above clothing. Some places, such as schools and bars, prohibit open carry.
Concealed carry is legal without a permit for individuals who can legally possess a firearm, provided the handgun is carried in a holster or sheath. While Mississippi statutes do not specify a minimum age for permitless concealed carry, the Department of Public Safety generally requires individuals to be 21 years old.
For reciprocity purposes, Mississippi offers two types of permits at the state level:
- Standard Firearms Permit (SFP)
- Enhanced Firearms Permit (E-SFP)
The E-SFP allows carry in additional locations and requires completion of a firearms training course certified by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. Applicants must be 21 years old, or 18 with military service, a resident of Mississippi, a non-resident with a valid permit from another state, or a retired law enforcement officer establishing residency in Mississippi.
Mississippi follows the castle doctrine and has a “stand your ground” law. Individuals not initiating aggression or involved in unlawful activities have no duty to retreat before using deadly force in places they legally occupy.
Homicide may be justified in the following situations:
- Resisting imminent threat of death or felony in a dwelling, vehicle, place of business, or employment.
- Defending oneself or others from imminent danger of felony or serious personal injury.
“Dwelling” includes any structure designed for overnight occupancy, providing legal protection in civil cases and immunity from civil suits if acquitted in criminal proceedings.
Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Mississippi?
Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Mississippi.
Does Mississippi have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?
No. Mississippi does not have magazine capacity restrictions.
Does Mississippi have ammunition restrictions?
No. There are no ammunition restrictions in Mississippi.
Is open carry permitted in Mississippi?
Yes, without a permit. Any person who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to possess a firearm can open carry.
If Mississippi requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued?
Mississippi is a shall-issue state.
Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Mississippi with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)?
Yes. You can carry a stun gun or a concealed handgun with a concealed carry permit.
What is the minimum age in Mississippi to get a concealed carry permit?
The minimum age for permitless concealed carry isn't addressed in Mississippi statutes. However, standard and enhanced firearms permits are issued to applicants that qualify and are a minimum of 21 years old or at least 18 and a member of the military or a military veteran.
Does Mississippi allow permitless carry?
Yes. Mississippi allows permitless carry with some limitations. A license is not required for a loaded or unloaded pistol or revolver to be carried upon the person under certain conditions.
Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Mississippi?
Yes. While no permit is required for purchase, a concealed carry permit is required to carry a stun gun or Taser in Mississippi.
Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests, and Wildlife Management Areas in Mississippi?
Yes, for anyone not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm and not engaged in criminal activity.
Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Mississippi?
Yes. Concealed carry is allowed at Mississippi roadside rest stops.
Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Mississippi?
Private businesses may restrict or deny concealed carry on their premises. To ban firearms, a property owner must place written notice, clearly readable at a distance of not less than 10 feet, that states "carrying of a pistol or revolver is prohibited." The individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about its concealed carry policy.
Does Mississippi have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?
A public or private employer may not establish, maintain, or enforce any policy or rule that has the effect of prohibiting a person from transporting or storing a firearm in a locked vehicle in any parking lot, parking garage, or other designated parking area. There are exceptions for secured parking lots and properties where firearms are prohibited.
Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Mississippi?
Yes, without a permit for anyone not otherwise prohibited from possessing a handgun. A handgun may be carried upon the person if it is in a sheath, belt holster, shoulder holster; in a purse, handbag, satchel, other similar bag; or in a briefcase or fully enclosed case.
Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Mississippi?
Yes, for anyone not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm, unless posted. However, concealed carry is not allowed in bars or the bar areas of restaurants.
Duty to Inform Officer You're Carrying?
Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Mississippi?
- There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Mississippi.
Red Flag Law?
Does Mississippi have a red flag law?
- No. Mississippi does not have a red flag law.
Carry While Using Alcohol or Prescription Medication?
Does Mississippi have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or prescription medication?
- Not addressed in state statutes.
- 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 judgement, slow your reaction times or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.
Non-Resident Permitting?
Does Mississippi issue concealed carry permits to non-residents?
- Yes. Standard permits are available to non-residents. The applicant must have a valid permit from another state, be an active duty member of the military stationed in Mississippi, or be a retired law enforcement officer establishing residency in the state.
Public Access to Concealed Carry Registry?
Does Mississippi allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
- No. However, the information is available for law enforcement.
Driver's License Linked to Carry Permit?
Is my Mississippi driver’s license linked to my Mississippi carry permit?
- Yes. Your Mississippi driver’s license is linked to your Mississippi firearms permit. Therefore, a law enforcement officer will be notified immediately that you are a concealed carry permit holder if they run your driver’s license.
"No Weapons Allowed" Signs Enforced?
Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Mississippi?
- Yes. The carrying of a stun gun, concealed pistol or revolver may be disallowed in any place in the discretion of the person or entity exercising control over the location by posting a sign stating “carrying of a pistol or revolver is prohibited.”
- Enhanced carry permit holders may carry a concealed handgun into any locations in which the carrying of concealed weapons is generally prohibited, with exceptions.
Preemption?
Does Mississippi have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e. Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?
- Yes, the state has preemption of firearms laws in Mississippi. However, local governments may regulate the discharge of firearms and the carrying of firearms in specific locations.
Brandishing?
Does Mississippi state law define brandishing?
- No definition of brandishing was found in Mississippi law. However, certain actions involving deadly weapons may constitute a criminal offense under state law.
Minimum Age to Possess and Transport?
What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Mississippi?
- 18 years old. A person may possess and transport a handgun in Mississippi if he or she is at least 18 years of age.
Purchase Permits?
Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Mississippi?
- No. A permit is not required to purchase a handgun in Mississippi.
Background Checks for Private Gun Sales?
Are background checks required for private gun sales in Mississippi?
- No. Private firearms transfers are not subject to a background check requirement, although federal and state purchaser prohibitions, including age restrictions, still apply. It is recommended that you retain any sales receipts to prove ownership of the gun.
Mississippi Permit Exempts from Background Check?
Does my current Mississippi concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?
- Yes. License to carry concealed pistol or revolver issued to individuals under Miss. Stat. Ann. § 45-9-101 qualify. Security guard permits issued under Miss. Stat. Ann. §97-37-7 do not qualify.
Waiting Period?
Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Mississippi?
- No. There is no waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Mississippi.
Handgun Registration?
Do handguns need to be registered in Mississippi?
- No. Handguns do not need to be registered in Mississippi.
Possess a Handgun on My Private Property Without a Permit?
Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a permit?
- Yes. Any person over the age of 18 and legally entitled to carry a firearm within the confines of his or her own home, place of business, on real property associated with the home or business or within any motor vehicle.
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
California (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Colorado (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Connecticut (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Delaware (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
District of Columbia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Hawaii (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Illinois (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Indiana (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)
Maryland (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Massachusetts (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Minnesota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Nebraska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Nevada (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Jersey (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Mexico (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New York (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New York City (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
North Carolina (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oregon (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Pennsylvania (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Puerto Rico (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Rhode Island (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Washington (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wisconsin (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Colorado (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
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)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old 18 for military)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Nevada (Enhanced permits only)
New Mexico (at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Pennsylvania (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
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)
Virginia (at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wisconsin (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)
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)
An applicant must:
- Be at least 21 years of age or 18 if a member of the military;
- Have been a resident of the state for more than 12 months (although this may be waived if the applicant possesses a valid permit from another state, is on active military duty and stationed in the state, or is a retired law enforcement officer residing in the state);
- Not have been convicted of a felony without having been pardoned;
- Not be suffering from a physical infirmity which prevents the safe handling of a handgun;
- Have no violent misdemeanor convictions within the last 3 years;
- Not have been adjudicated mentally incompetent or must wait 5 years from the date of his or her restoration of mental capacity by court order;
- Not have been committed to a mental institution or mental health treatment facility, unless he or she possesses a certificate from a psychiatrist licensed in Mississippi stating that he or she has not suffered from disability for a period of 5 years;
- Not chronically and habitually use alcoholic beverages to the extent that his or her normal faculties are impaired;
- Not be a fugitive from justice;
- Not have had an adjudication of guilt withheld or imposition of sentence suspended on any felony unless 3 years have elapsed since probation or any other conditions set by the court have been fulfilled;
- 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 Mississippi.
- Initial Permit: $112
- Renewals: $72 or $52 for individuals 65 or older
- Late renewal fee: $15
- Honorably retired law enforcement officers, disabled veterans and active duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces are exempt from the payment of the license fee. There will only be a $ 32.00 charge for the processing of fingerprints.
- 5 years for initial permit
- 4 years for renewals
- 45 days
- Mississippi does not issue non-resident permits. However, according to Mississippi Code 45-9-101, Mississippi will issue a Mississippi non-resident a License to Carry Concealed Pistol or Revolver under specific conditions.
- For reciprocity reasons, two types of permits are available at the state level: the Standard Firearms Permit (SFP) and an enhanced version (E-SFP). The E-SFP allows carry in more locations and is only available to residents. It requires a training course offered by an instructor certified by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety.
- With proper documentation, any member or veteran of any active or reserve component branch of the U.S. armed forces, honorably retired law enforcement officer or honorably retired veteran having completed law enforcement or combat training with pistols or other handguns may obtain an enhanced permit.
- Within 30 days after the changing of a permanent address, you must notify the Department of Public Safety in writing. Be sure to include in your correspondence your name, permit number, old and new addresses, and a contact number in case of questions. The change of address should be mailed to: Firearm Permit Unit P.O. Box 958 Jackson, MS 39205-0958.
- Within 30 days after having a permit lost or destroyed, you must notify the Department of Public Safety (DPS) in writing. A notarized Lost or Destroyed Permit Affidavit or notarized statement to DPS that the permit has been lost or destroyed is required. If your permit is lost or destroyed, you may obtain a duplicate for $15. Duplicates are done at the Firearm Permit Unit at DPS headquarters and at the substations according to their published schedule.
- Moving to Mississippi and interested in applying for a resident permit? How soon can you apply? Mississippi issues standard permits to residents and non-residents, although enhanced permits are only issued to residents, so you can apply for your standard permit at any time. In order to apply for a standard resident permit, you may need to provide a Mississippi driver's license or state ID.
- Moving from Mississippi and have a Mississippi resident permit? Does that permit transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Mississippi permit remains valid? If a person with a Mississippi firearms permit establishes residency in another state, the permit may not be valid. Contact the Firearm Permit Unit for details.
Step 1: Renewals are the responsibility of the permittee. Renewal packages are mailed out 90 days before a permit's expiry date. The licensee must renew his or her license on or before the expiration date by filing with the department the renewal form, a notarized affidavit stating that the licensee remains qualified. There is a late fee of $15 that can be paid for up to 6 months past the expiry date. Any permits expired for more than 6 months are marked as permanently expired and you will need to make a new application for a permit.
Step 2: Download the application: application.
Step 3: Complete the application and have it notarized.
Step 4: Take the notarized application to the Department of Public Safety or a Highway Patrol substation or mail it to the address below. You will also need:
- Two forms of ID; and
- A photo that fits in the box on Page 12 of the application.
Renewals may be mailed in for the first renewal and then every other time of renewal. The applicant must appear in person every 10 years for the purpose of obtaining a new photograph. Firearm Permit Division P.O. Box 958 Jackson, MS 39205
Step 5: You will be notified if your application has been approved.
Wear a COVID Mask & Carry?
Can I Legally Carry a Concealed Firearm in Mississippi While Wearing a COVID-19 Protective Mask?
Yes. There is no known statute in Mississippi making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed.
Carry While Gun Hunting?
Can You Concealed Carry While Shotgun/Rifle Hunting in Mississippi?
Yes. Anyone can open carry and concealed carry permit holders can conceal carry.
Carry While Bow Hunting?
Can You Concealed Carry While Bow Hunting in Mississippi?
Yes. Anyone can open carry and concealed carry permit holders can conceal carry.
Hunter Harassment Law?
Is There a Hunter Harassment Law in Mississippi?
Yes. No person shall intentionally interfere with or attempt to prevent the lawful taking of wildlife by another person. [Miss. Code Ann. § 49-7-147]
What Are the Knife Laws in Mississippi?
What Are the Knife Laws in Mississippi?
It is legal to own any knife in Mississippi, unless you are a minor or have been convicted of a felony. Minors and felons may not own Bowie, dirk, butcher, or switchblade knives. You can open carry any knife in Mississippi. You may not concealed carry any Bowie, dirk, butcher, or switchblade knife unless it is in your home or place of business, in your vehicle, or you are fishing, hunting, or participating in some sporting activity in which it is common to use that type of knife. Additionally, weapons are not permitted on “educational property,” which includes school buses. [Miss. Code Ann. §§ 97-37-1, 97-37-17]