Is Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) Legal in Mississippi? (2026)
Partially — Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is legal with restrictions in Mississippi as of 2026.
Law changed in 2016: The constitutional carry law was enacted in 2016. There have been no major changes to the law itself, but there are ongoing discussions about related issues, such as parental amnesty for firearms found in the home, as seen in a 2026 bill.
Quick Answer
Mississippi allows permitless concealed carry for residents 21 and older under Mississippi Code § 45-9-101. No permit is required to carry a concealed handgun if the person is legally allowed to possess a firearm.
- Age restriction: 21 years old minimum for permitless carry
What the Law Says
Mississippi law allows residents 21 and older to carry a concealed handgun without a permit, provided it is in a holster and they are legally allowed to possess a firearm.
— Mississippi Code § 45-9-101
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Permitless Carry Rules | Legal to possess and carry concealed without a permit if 21 or older and not prohibited. |
| Permit Availability | Sales regulated under state and federal law; background checks required for licensed dealers. |
| Penalties | N/A for lawful permitless carry; penalties apply for prohibited persons carrying firearms. |
| Minimum Age | 21 years old minimum for permitless carry. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
The constitutional carry law was enacted in 2016. There have been no major changes to the law itself, but there are ongoing discussions about related issues, such as parental amnesty for firearms found in the home, as seen in a 2026 bill.
Enforcement Reality
Mississippi has a form of constitutional carry that allows for carrying a concealed handgun without a permit, but it must be in a holster. Enforcement focuses on this requirement and on prohibited persons.
A common mistake is carrying a concealed handgun without a holster, which is not covered by the permitless carry law. Another is carrying in a location where firearms are prohibited, such as a courthouse or a business that has posted signs.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Mississippi. 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 Mississippi
Can You Cross State Lines With Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) From Mississippi?
This is where people get burned. Mississippi treats constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) as restricted, but neighboring Tennessee 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 Mississippi/Tennessee 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 Mississippi. 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.
Mississippi 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. Mississippi 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.
Comprehensive Mississippi Legal Guides
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