How to Get a Gun License in Missouri
Contents
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for a gun license in Missouri, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements. To be eligible, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old (for a concealed carry endorsement)
- Be a resident of Missouri
- Not have been convicted of a felony or a crime of domestic violence
- Not have a pending felony charge
- Not be subject to a restraining order or a protective order that restrains you from contacting or threatening another person
- Not be addicted to controlled substances
- Not have been adjudicated as mentally incompetent
- Not have a court-determined mental or physical disability that prevents you from safely carrying a firearm
Application Process
To apply for a gun license in Missouri, you must:
- Gather required documents: You will need to provide proof of Missouri residency, identification, and citizenship. You will also need to provide a recent passport-sized photograph.
- Complete the application: You can obtain a firearms permit application from your local sheriff’s office or download it from the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s website. Fill out the application completely and accurately.
- Pay the fee: The application fee for a concealed carry endorsement is $115, which includes a $35 fee for the Missouri State Highway Patrol and a $80 fee for the sheriff’s office.
- Provide fingerprints: You will need to provide fingerprints as part of the background check process. You can do this at your local sheriff’s office or at a participating fingerprinting vendor.
- Wait for approval: The Missouri State Highway Patrol will conduct a background check and review your application. You will be notified if your application is approved or denied.
Types of Gun Licenses in Missouri
There are two types of gun licenses in Missouri:
- Concealed Carry Endorsement: This license allows you to carry a concealed firearm in public.
- Non-Resident Permit: This license allows non-residents to carry a firearm in Missouri.
Concealed Carry Endorsement
To get a concealed carry endorsement in Missouri, you must:
- Meet the eligibility requirements
- Complete the application process
- Pay the fee
- Provide fingerprints
- Wait for approval
Non-Resident Permit
To get a non-resident permit in Missouri, you must:
- Meet the eligibility requirements
- Complete the application process
- Pay the fee
- Provide fingerprints
- Wait for approval
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to process a gun license application in Missouri?
A: The processing time for a gun license application in Missouri typically takes 30-60 days.
Q: Can I carry a firearm in my vehicle with a concealed carry endorsement?
A: Yes, you can carry a firearm in your vehicle with a concealed carry endorsement.
Q: Can I carry a firearm on school property with a concealed carry endorsement?
A: No, you are not allowed to carry a firearm on school property, including school buses, with a concealed carry endorsement.
Q: Can I carry a firearm in public with a non-resident permit?
A: Yes, you can carry a firearm in public with a non-resident permit.
Additional Resources
- Missouri State Highway Patrol: www.mshp.dps.mo.gov
- Missouri Department of Public Safety: dps.mo.gov
- Missouri Sheriffs’ Association: www.mosheriffs.org
Table: Gun License Requirements in Missouri
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Age | At least 21 years old (for concealed carry endorsement) |
| Residency | Must be a resident of Missouri |
| Eligibility | Must meet certain eligibility requirements |
| Fee | $115 (includes $35 fee for Missouri State Highway Patrol and $80 fee for sheriff’s office) |
| Fingerprinting | Required for background check |
| Application | Must complete application and provide required documents |
By following these steps and understanding the requirements, you can successfully obtain a gun license in Missouri and exercise your right to carry a firearm. Remember to always follow the law and use common sense when carrying a firearm.
