State Laws · MT
Montana Gun Laws
Effective as of February 18, 2021 (HB 102 (constitutional carry)). Laws change — you should check for updates or consult with a licensed firearms trainer in your state before acting on this information.
Concealed & Open Carry
Montana adopted constitutional carry under HB 102, effective February 18, 2021. Persons aged 18 and older who can legally possess a firearm may carry concealed without a permit. Open carry has long been legal in Montana. Montana issues a Concealed Weapons Permit for reciprocity.
Key statute: MCA § 45-8-317 through 45-8-330 — concealed weapons, regulation and permits.
Who Cannot Carry
Prohibited persons include: convicted felons (unless pardoned or rights restored after 10 years), persons adjudicated as mentally ill, persons committed involuntarily to a mental health facility, illegal aliens, and persons convicted of certain misdemeanors within the preceding five years.
Prohibited Locations
Montana prohibits carry in: government buildings with restricted access and security screening, schools (K-12), the state capitol and the governor's office, financial institutions (banks, credit unions), and bars/restaurants where alcohol is sold (for persons who are under the influence). Under HB 102, concealed carry on university campuses was legalized.
Purchase Requirements
No permit is required to purchase any firearm. All FFL sales require a NICS background check. Private sales do not require a background check. There is no waiting period, no state firearms registry, no assault weapons ban, and no magazine restriction.
Citations
MCA Title 45, Chapter 8, Part 3 (weapons); HB 102 (2021).
Look up statutes at Montana Legislature →Legal disclaimer
This summary is for informational purposes only. Firearms laws change frequently. Always verify current statutes and consult a qualified attorney before making legal decisions.
Sources & official resources
Federal firearms laws
ATF.gov — Laws: Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives →Montana statutes
Montana Legislature →This link goes to Montana's legislative website. To find specific firearms statutes, search for terms like "concealed carry," "firearms," or "weapons permit" in the site's search function.