Is Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) Legal in Vermont? (2026)
Yes — Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is legal in Vermont as of 2026.
Law changed in 2026: While Vermont has a long history of constitutional carry, the state has enacted more gun control measures in recent years. In March 2026, the House passed an omnibus gun control bill that includes a waiting period for firearm purchases and an expansi...
Quick Answer
Vermont has allowed permitless concealed carry since 1903 under 13 V.S.A. § 4001. No permit or license is required to carry a concealed handgun for persons legally allowed to possess firearms.
- Age restriction: None for permitless carry, but must be 16+ to possess a firearm generally
- License or permit required
What the Law Says
Vermont does not restrict constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry). No specific statute prohibits or regulates this activity.
— Vermont Statutes Annotated
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Permitless Carry Rules | No permit required for concealed carry; must be legally allowed to possess firearms. |
| Permit Availability | Sales regulated under Vermont statutes; private sales allowed without background checks. |
| Penalties | Unlawful possession or carry is a misdemeanor or felony depending on circumstances. |
| Minimum Age | None for permitless carry, but must be 16+ to possess a firearm generally. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
While Vermont has a long history of constitutional carry, the state has enacted more gun control measures in recent years. In March 2026, the House passed an omnibus gun control bill that includes a waiting period for firearm purchases and an expansion of the state's red flag law.
Enforcement Reality
Vermont has always had constitutional carry and has never required a permit to carry a firearm. Enforcement is focused on prohibited persons and the few locations where firearms are not allowed, such as schools and courthouses.
A common mistake is not being aware of the state's restrictions on magazine capacity and the requirement for background checks on private firearm sales. Another is carrying a firearm in a federal building, which is prohibited.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Vermont. 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 Vermont
Can You Cross State Lines With Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) From Vermont?
This is where people get burned. Vermont treats constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) as legal, 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 Vermont/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 legal in Vermont. You can carrying a concealed weapon without a permit without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Vermont 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. Vermont falls in the LEGAL 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 Vermont Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in Vermont — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.