Can I Carry a Handgun in My Car in Oregon?
Oregon is known for its strict gun control laws, and it can be confusing for gun owners and non-gun owners alike to understand the rules and regulations surrounding the carrying of handguns in vehicles. In this article, we will break down the laws and guidelines to help you understand if you can carry a handgun in your car in Oregon.
Direct Answer
Yes, you can carry a handgun in your car in Oregon, but only under certain circumstances and with specific requirements.
Laws and Regulations
The Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) and the Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) govern the carrying of handguns in vehicles. The relevant laws and regulations are as follows:
- ORS 166.170: Carrying a firearm on a highway or in a vehicle: This law states that it is illegal to carry a firearm, including a handgun, on a highway or in a vehicle without a valid permit.
- ORS 166.340: Concealed handgun permits: This law states that any person who has a valid concealed handgun permit may carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle.
- OAR 735-240-010: Permitted Places and Means: This rule states that a permit holder may carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle as long as the handgun is carried in a secure, inaccessible compartment or on their person.
Permit Requirements
To carry a handgun in your car in Oregon, you must obtain a valid concealed handgun permit from the Oregon State Police (OSP). The requirements for obtaining a permit are as follows:
- Age: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a permit.
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident to apply for a permit.
- Residency: You must have been a resident of Oregon for at least six months prior to applying for a permit.
- Mental Health: You must not have any mental health issues that would prevent you from safely carrying a firearm.
- Criminal History: You must not have any felony convictions or domestic violence convictions within the past 10 years.
Types of Permits
There are two types of concealed handgun permits issued by the OSP:
- Standard Permit: This permit allows you to carry a concealed handgun in most places, including in a vehicle.
- Alternative Permit: This permit allows you to carry a concealed handgun in certain places, such as in a vehicle, but not in all public places.
Permit Requirements for Non-Residents
If you are a non-resident, you can still apply for a concealed handgun permit, but you must meet the same requirements as Oregon residents. Additionally, you must have a valid permit or equivalent from your home state or country.
Other Considerations
In addition to obtaining a permit, there are other considerations to keep in mind when carrying a handgun in your car in Oregon:
- Secure Storage: You must store your handgun in a secure, inaccessible compartment or on your person while carrying it in a vehicle.
- No Towing: You cannot tow a trailer or trailer-mounted container that contains a firearm.
- No Open Carrying: You cannot open carry a handgun in a vehicle, even with a permit.
Table: Concealed Handgun Permit Requirements
| Requirement | Oregon Residents | Non-Residents |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 21 years old | 21 years old |
| Citizenship | U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident | U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident |
| Residency | 6 months | 6 months |
| Mental Health | No mental health issues | No mental health issues |
| Criminal History | No felony or domestic violence convictions within the past 10 years | No felony or domestic violence convictions within the past 10 years |
In Conclusion
Carrying a handgun in your car in Oregon is allowed under certain circumstances and with specific requirements. To carry a handgun in your car, you must obtain a valid concealed handgun permit from the Oregon State Police and meet the permit requirements. Additionally, you must store your handgun in a secure, inaccessible compartment or on your person, and you cannot open carry a handgun in a vehicle. By understanding the laws and regulations surrounding handgun carry in Oregon, you can ensure that you are compliant with the law and keeping yourself and others safe.
