Gun laws and the interstate transportation of handguns vary greatly from state to state; what may be lawful in Minnesota may be unlawful in another state including, but not limited to, the ability to lawfully carry a handgun either openly or concealed, with or without a permit, loaded or unloaded.
The allowance for carrying a handgun in a vehicle will also be different depending if a person has a permit honored in that state.
In Minnesota, valid out-of-state permits or licenses to possess or carry a handgun is valid for carrying a concealed handgun for the following 15 reciprocal states: Alaska, Arkansas, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming. The Minnesota resident permit, however, is recognized in 25 other states.
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The term "reciprocity" means there is a mutual recognition between the two states to recognize each others permits. Although the permit allows the holder to carry a concealed weapon in Minnesota, the visiting permit holder will still be subject to the same laws and restrictions in the same manner that a Minnesota permit holder must comply with the laws of the state.
This includes being familiar with prohibited carry locations, and the allowance of carrying in courthouse complexes and on school property. While open carrying a handgun is legal in Minnesota, you must have a valid permit or license.
Minnesota does have state preemption laws where local authorities cannot have laws or ordinances against open carry. However, if the owner or the person who is in legal control of the property or premises asks you to leave, you must leave. Failure to comply can result in charges of trespassing.
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Specific to a motor vehicle, a visitor to Minnesota that has an out-of-state permit which is valid in Minnesota may carry a handgun in a vehicle, whether as the driver or passenger, loaded or unloaded, concealed or open.
If the visitor does not have a permit valid in Minnesota, the unloaded handgun must be transported in a closed and fastened case, gun box, or securely tied package.
The term "loaded" in Minnesota means the handgun has ammunition in the chamber or magazine, if the magazine is in the firearm, unless the firearm is incapable of being fired by a child who is likely to gain access to the firearm.
A "child" means a person under the age of 18 years. A visitor may choose to comply with the similar Federal law of having the unloaded firearm in a locked container not readily accessible by any of the occupants (excluding the glove box or console) such as the trunk, completely separated from ammunition.
This article does not constitute legal advice. Check the current gun laws before purchasing or traveling with a firearm.
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