Yes, Mississippi law is notably permissive regarding carrying firearms in your vehicle, with specific provisions for both concealed and open carry.
Carrying a Concealed Weapon in Your Vehicle
In Mississippi, the law is quite clear regarding concealed carry within a motor vehicle. Any person over the age of 18 years may carry a concealed weapon within a motor vehicle anywhere within the state without violating the concealed weapon law.
This means that:
- No Permit Required: You generally do not need a Mississippi concealed carry permit specifically to keep a handgun concealed in your car.
- Age Requirement: You must be 18 years of age or older.
- Location: This allowance applies anywhere within the state while in your motor vehicle.
- Condition: The firearm can be loaded or unloaded.
Open Carry in Your Vehicle
Mississippi is a constitutional carry state, meaning it generally allows for both open and concealed carry of firearms without a permit for eligible individuals. This principle extends to carrying firearms openly in your vehicle, provided the firearm is visible and you are legally permitted to possess it.
Important Legal Considerations and Restrictions
While Mississippi's laws are generally permissive, it's crucial to understand that certain restrictions and prohibitions still apply.
| Generally Allowed in Vehicle | Restrictions & Prohibitions |
|---|---|
| Concealed carry for persons 18+ | Prohibited persons (e.g., felons, those with specific domestic violence convictions) |
| Open carry for eligible individuals | Carrying within certain sensitive locations (even if in a vehicle) |
| Loaded or unloaded firearms | Federal Gun-Free School Zones Act (with specific exceptions) |
| State-wide application in vehicles | Interstate travel regulations (Firearm Owners' Protection Act) |
Here are key limitations and factors to consider:
- Prohibited Persons: Individuals legally prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law (e.g., convicted felons, those with a history of domestic violence convictions, individuals subject to certain restraining orders) are forbidden from carrying a gun, regardless of location or mode of carry.
- Sensitive Locations: While the law allows concealed carry in a vehicle "anywhere within the state" concerning the state's concealed weapon law, other state and federal statutes prohibit firearms in specific sensitive locations. These typically include, but are not limited to:
- Inside courthouses or courtrooms
- Polling places during elections
- On the premises of schools, colleges, or universities (with specific exceptions for secure storage in vehicles, pick-up/drop-off, or authorized personnel)
- Federal buildings (e.g., post offices, federal courthouses, VA hospitals)
- Certain government meetings
- Places of worship if prohibited by the leadership or clear signage.
- Note: Even if a firearm is in a vehicle, entering these properties may still fall under the general prohibition against firearms on premises, unless explicitly exempted for vehicle storage.
- Interstate Travel: If you are traveling through Mississippi, the federal Firearm Owners' Protection Act (FOPA) provides some protection for individuals transporting firearms through states where they might otherwise be illegal. Under FOPA, firearms must generally be unloaded and stored in a locked container not readily accessible from the passenger compartment. However, it's always advisable to be aware of the firearm laws in your origin and destination states.
- Brandishing/Disorderly Conduct: Even where carry is permitted, brandishing a firearm in a threatening manner or using it to commit disorderly conduct is illegal.
Practical Tips for Responsible Vehicle Carry
For those choosing to carry a firearm in their vehicle in Mississippi, responsible practices are essential:
- Secure Storage: Even when not legally mandated, securing your firearm in a safe, inaccessible location within your vehicle (e.g., a locked glove compartment or trunk) can prevent theft, unauthorized access by children, and accidental discharge.
- Be Aware of Surroundings: Always be mindful of your environment and avoid displaying your firearm unnecessarily, especially in situations that could cause alarm.
- Stay Informed: Firearm laws can change. It's crucial to periodically review Mississippi's current firearm statutes to ensure continuous compliance. You can typically find updated information on the official Mississippi Legislature website or reputable legal resources.
