Is Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) Legal in Massachusetts? (2026)
No — Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is illegal in Massachusetts as of 2026.
Law changed in 2025: In March 2025, the state's Supreme Judicial Court upheld a new nonresident licensing law after the old one was found unconstitutional. New gun safety regulations are also set to take effect in 2026, and there is a possibility of a voter referendum on...
Quick Answer
Massachusetts requires a License to Carry (LTC) or a Firearm Identification (FID) card to carry a concealed firearm. There is no permitless or constitutional carry allowed under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Sections 131 and 131J.
- Age restriction: Minimum age 21 for LTC; 18 for FID card with restrictions
What the Law Says
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Sections 131 and 131J require a License to Carry (LTC) or a Firearm Identification (FID) card for carrying firearms, and carrying without such a license is a felony.
— Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 140, Section 131
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Permitless Carry Rules | Possession of a firearm is allowed only with proper licensing; carrying concealed without a license is prohibited. |
| Permit Availability | Firearm sales require background checks and compliance with state regulations under M.G.L. c. 140, §§ 129B and 131. |
| Penalties | Carrying without a license is a felony punishable by imprisonment and fines under M.G.L. c. 140, § 131. |
| Minimum Age | Minimum age 21 for LTC; 18 for FID card with restrictions. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
In March 2025, the state's Supreme Judicial Court upheld a new nonresident licensing law after the old one was found unconstitutional. New gun safety regulations are also set to take effect in 2026, and there is a possibility of a voter referendum on the new gun law.
Enforcement Reality
Massachusetts does not have constitutional carry and maintains a strict, may-issue licensing system for carrying firearms. Enforcement is rigid, and the state has some of the most restrictive gun laws in the country.
A common mistake is not understanding the complexities of the licensing process, which can vary by locality. Another is being unaware of the state's extensive list of prohibited weapons and areas where firearms cannot be carried.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts
Can You Cross State Lines With Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) From Massachusetts?
This is where people get burned. Massachusetts treats constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) as illegal, but neighboring New Hampshire treats it as restricted. 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 Massachusetts/New Hampshire 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 Massachusetts. 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.
Massachusetts 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. Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts Legal Guides
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