State Laws · NM
New Mexico Gun Laws
Effective as of Various; most recent significant changes 2023-2024 (Concealed Handgun Carry Act (NMSA § 29-19-1 through 29-19-14)). Laws change — you should check for updates or consult with a licensed firearms trainer in your state before acting on this information.
Concealed Carry
New Mexico requires a Concealed Handgun License (CHL) for concealed carry, issued by the Department of Public Safety. New Mexico is a shall-issue state. Applicants must complete a 15-hour firearms training course, be at least 21, and pass a background check. The license is valid for four years (two years for initial license).
Key statute: NMSA § 29-19-1 through 29-19-14 — Concealed Handgun Carry Act.
Open Carry
Open carry is legal in New Mexico without a permit for anyone who can legally possess a firearm.
Who Cannot Carry
Prohibited persons include: convicted felons, persons adjudicated as mentally incompetent, persons addicted to alcohol or controlled substances, persons convicted of domestic violence, persons under 21, and fugitives from justice.
Prohibited Locations
New Mexico prohibits carry in: schools and school grounds, courthouses, and on tribal land (subject to tribal law). The governor issued an emergency public health order in September 2023 temporarily suspending carry in Albuquerque, which was blocked by federal courts. New Mexico does not have comprehensive sensitive-place restrictions beyond schools and courts.
Purchase Requirements
All firearms sales (including private) require a background check under legislation enacted in 2019. There is no waiting period. New Mexico does not have an assault weapons ban, a magazine capacity restriction, or a state firearms registry. The state enacted a red flag law (Extreme Risk Firearm Protection Order) in 2020.
Citations
NMSA Chapter 29, Article 19 (Concealed Handgun Carry Act); NMSA Chapter 30, Article 7 (weapons and explosives).
Look up statutes at New Mexico 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 →New Mexico statutes
New Mexico Legislature →This link goes to New Mexico's legislative website. To find specific firearms statutes, search for terms like "concealed carry," "firearms," or "weapons permit" in the site's search function.