Is Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) Legal in Minnesota? (2026)
Partially — Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is legal with restrictions in Minnesota as of 2026.
Law changed in 2025: While a bill to recognize constitutional carry was introduced in 2025, it did not pass. The legislative focus in 2026 has been on gun control measures, including a proposed ban on certain magazines and a bill to require a certificate of ownership for...
Quick Answer
Minnesota requires a permit to carry a pistol, either openly or concealed, under Minn. Stat. § 624.714. There is no constitutional carry law permitting permitless concealed carry.
- Age restriction: Minimum age 21 for permit to carry
What the Law Says
Minnesota law requires individuals to obtain a permit to carry a pistol in public, whether openly or concealed, and carrying without such a permit is classified as a gross misdemeanor.
— Minnesota Statutes Section 624.714
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Permitless Carry Rules | Possession of firearms is legal; carrying requires a permit. |
| Permit Availability | Sales require background checks and compliance with state and federal laws. |
| Penalties | Carrying without a permit is a gross misdemeanor under Minn. Stat. § 624.714. |
| Minimum Age | Minimum age 21 for permit to carry. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
While a bill to recognize constitutional carry was introduced in 2025, it did not pass. The legislative focus in 2026 has been on gun control measures, including a proposed ban on certain magazines and a bill to require a certificate of ownership for certain firearms.
Enforcement Reality
Minnesota requires a permit to carry a handgun in public, and the state does not have a constitutional carry law. Enforcement is consistent, and the state has been moving towards stricter gun control measures.
A common mistake is not understanding the difference between a permit to purchase a firearm and a permit to carry, which are separate and have different requirements. Another is carrying a firearm in a place where it is prohibited, such as a school or a private establishment that has posted signs.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Minnesota. 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 Minnesota
Can You Cross State Lines With Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) From Minnesota?
This is where people get burned. Minnesota treats constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) as restricted, but neighboring Iowa 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 Minnesota/Iowa 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 legal with restrictions in Minnesota. This activity is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Minnesota 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. Minnesota falls in the RESTRICTED 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.
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