How to Get a Gun Permit in Missouri: A Step-by-Step Guide
Missouri gun laws allow law-abiding citizens to purchase and carry firearms with a permit issued by the state. With a Missouri gun permit, you can legally carry firearms in the state and certain other places. In this article, we will discuss the steps to get a gun permit in Missouri. Note that the processes and requirements may change periodically, so it’s best to check with the specific authorities for the most accurate information.
****Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for a Missouri gun permit, you should ensure you meet the necessary eligibility requirements:
- Reside in Missouri
- Be at least 19 years old (21 in some counties)
- Comply with federal requirements such as background checks and taxes
- Not be fugitive from justice
- Not be addicted to-controlled substances
- Not being adjudicated mentally incompetent through a court proceeding
- Not being dishonorably discharged from the military within the last 5 years
- Not being found mentally defective or have communication disorders that prevent you from understanding or complying with current laws and regulations
**Application Process
To obtain a gun permit in Missouri, you must submit your application through the Missouri Online Permit Portal or by Mail. Please note that County Sheriffs may have extended hours for processing applications depending on the county:
- Online Permit Portal:
• Create an account on the Missouri Online Permit Portal if you haven’t already done so.
• Filling out the application correctly and truthfully.- Attach the required proof of residency and identification (see below).
- Mail-in application:
• Acquire a permit application by visiting the Missouri State Auditor’s Office or by submitting a request by mail/online to the Missouri Coalition for Our Right to Keeper (MCORK).
• Fill out the form correctly and truthfully using black ink.- Attach the required proofs of residency and identification(see below).
- Submit the documents:
• Double-check the application for completed and legible information; ensure the attached documents fit the specific requirements. - Wait for Application Processing:
- The processing time may be 3-5 business days upon receipt of the application online or up to 48 hours if mailed.
- You might receive an email or automated call once your application process is complete.
- The processing time may be 3-5 business days upon receipt of the application online or up to 48 hours if mailed.
Proof of Residency and Identity:
• Proof of Residency: A 30-day-old utility or bank statement, a printed copy of your voter’s registration, or a dated letter from a Missouri residency address (utility bills exclude PO boxes).
• Proof of Identity:
- A legitimate government-issued ID;
- A business card;
- A student ID with matching name and photo;
- Valid Missouri handgun permit (if applicable).
Required Documents**
- Valid Missouri handgun permit (if applicable).
These documents should be attached/enclosed with your submitted application:
• Social Security Card (1 copy) – Front of the card
• Identification Document for proof of identity (notarized)
• Residency Document Proof for proof of state residency (notarized)
• Waiver for any fingerprints required by the FBI during the application process
Additional Requirements
Based on your application, you might need to add the following documents:
For First-Time Applicants ONLY:
• Your fingerprints taken to the nearest fingerprinting organization ( FBI certified)
When submitting a Renewing Application, provide the number of the current permit from the Sheriff’s Office records.
**FEE and PAYMENT
At the time of application you will be required to PAY the non-refundable fee:
• Cash – Accepted at specific locations and some Sheriff ‘s Offices.
• Bank Draft/Money Order and Cashier’s Check;
• Online Payment through VISA/Mastercard is available online for Missouri License to Carry (LTC) only.
Wait for Your Permit
Upon approval of your application (typically within 3 – 5 business days post-submission), if you meet the eligibility prerequisites, your permit will come in the mail. Print the email confirmation for added security or use the USPS tracking number for confirmation via the website.
Additional Notes**
1.*** State-specific Laws and Regulations will apply, please familiarized yourself with these laws;
2.*** Annual Renewal Is Required: Before the certificate’s expiration date, log in to the Missouri Department of Public Safety’s Citizen Online Research Tool (MORE) or submit a Request for Duplicate Certificate (only for those with a loss or destruction) to restart the permit.
3.***For Out-of-State Residents seeking a Permit in Missouri***: Visit the Missouri Gun Permit Information website for general information about obtaining a Missouri Gun Permit.
- Disclaimer: The law and procedures mentioned in the article may change. Your local Sheriff’s Office authority may also have specific regional requirements, so it’ s always best to obtain the latest information from authority sources.
In conclusion, obtaining a gun permit in Missouri is a straightforward multi-step process that requires residents to submit their application while meeting eligibility requirements. Failure to meet these requirements.
