Is Open Carry Legal in Mississippi? (2026)
Partially — Open Carry is legal with restrictions in Mississippi as of 2026.
Law changed in 2016: Mississippi became a full constitutional carry state in 2016, which was the last major change to its carry laws.
Quick Answer
Open carry of firearms is legal with restrictions in Mississippi without a permit for adults who are legally allowed to possess firearms. Mississippi became a full constitutional carry state in 2016, which was the last major change to its carry laws.
- Age restriction: 18+ for long guns, 21+ for handguns
What the Law Says
Mississippi law allows for both open and concealed carry without a permit for any person who is legally able to possess a firearm. There are no criminal penalties for lawful open carry.
— Miss. Code Ann. § 97-37-1
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Open Carry Rules | Legal without permit for eligible adults |
| Permit Requirements | Legal through licensed dealers |
| Penalties | Prohibited in certain locations (schools, courthouses, etc.). |
| Minimum Age | 18+ for long guns, 21+ for handguns |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
Mississippi became a full constitutional carry state in 2016, which was the last major change to its carry laws.
Enforcement Reality
Mississippi is a constitutional carry state, allowing for both open and concealed carry without a permit for anyone who can legally possess a firearm. Open carry is a common and accepted practice.
A common mistake is carrying a firearm into a courthouse, school, or other prohibited location. It is also illegal to carry a firearm if you are a convicted felon.
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: Open Carry in Mississippi
Bottom Line
Open 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, open carrying a firearm is fully legal in 0 states, restricted in 45, and illegal in 5. 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
Explore all related legal topics in Mississippi — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.