Is Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) Legal in Maryland? (2026)
No — Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is illegal in Maryland as of 2026.
Law changed in 2023: Open carry was prohibited in Maryland as of October 1, 2023. In January 2026, a federal appeals court upheld most of the state's restrictions on where firearms can be carried. There are no legislative movements towards constitutional carry.
Quick Answer
Maryland requires a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) and a Wear and Carry Permit to carry concealed firearms. Permitless concealed carry is not allowed under Md. Code, Public Safety §5-306.
- Age restriction: 21 years old to obtain a Wear and Carry Permit
What the Law Says
Maryland law prohibits carrying a concealed firearm without both a Handgun Qualification License (HQL) and a Wear and Carry Permit, with violations leading to misdemeanor or felony charges depending on the specific circumstances.
— Maryland Code, Public Safety §5-306
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Permitless Carry Rules | Concealed carry requires a Wear and Carry Permit; open carry is generally prohibited. |
| Permit Availability | Sales require HQL and background checks. |
| Penalties | Carrying concealed without a permit is a misdemeanor or felony depending on circumstances under Md. Code, Public Safety §5-306. |
| Minimum Age | 21 years old to obtain a Wear and Carry Permit. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
Open carry was prohibited in Maryland as of October 1, 2023. In January 2026, a federal appeals court upheld most of the state's restrictions on where firearms can be carried. There are no legislative movements towards constitutional carry.
Enforcement Reality
Maryland does not have constitutional carry and requires a permit to wear and carry a handgun. Enforcement is strict, and the state has some of the most comprehensive gun control laws in the country.
A common mistake is not understanding the state's stringent requirements for obtaining a permit, which were recently challenged in court. Another is being unaware of the extensive list of locations where carrying a firearm is prohibited, even with a permit.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Maryland. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) in Maryland
Can You Cross State Lines With Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) From Maryland?
This is where people get burned. Maryland treats constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) as illegal, but neighboring Pennsylvania treats it as legal. The law changes at the state line — not gradually, not with a warning sign, instantly. "I bought it legally" is not a defense in the new state. Interstate highways near the Maryland/Pennsylvania border are known enforcement corridors. If you're driving with out-of-state plates in a state where constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) is illegal, you're a target.
Bottom Line
Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is illegal in Maryland. This activity can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
Maryland vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is fully legal in 23 states, restricted in 14, and illegal in 13. Maryland falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Maryland Legal Guides
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