Missouri CCW: Constitutional Carry vs. Getting a Permit — What's Right for You?

Missouri adopted constitutional carry in January 2017, making it one of the earlier states to allow permitless carry. Today, eligible Missouri residents can carry a handgun — openly or concealed — without a permit. But Missouri also continues to issue CCW permits, and many Missouri carriers choose to get one.

This guide explains the difference between carrying with and without a permit in Missouri, and helps you decide which approach is right for you.

Missouri's Constitutional Carry Law

Effective January 1, 2017, Missouri allows any person who is legally permitted to possess a firearm to carry a concealed handgun without a permit. Open carry has been legal in Missouri without a permit for much longer.

To carry without a permit under Missouri's constitutional carry law, you must be at least 19 years old, be legally permitted to possess a firearm, and not be prohibited from carrying under Missouri law.

Constitutional carry applies within Missouri. For carry in other states, a permit is required.

Missouri CCW Permit Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Missouri CCW permit, applicants must:

• Be at least 19 years of age
• Be a Missouri resident
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Not be prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law
• Not have been convicted of a felony
• Not have been convicted of certain misdemeanors
• Not be subject to a domestic violence protective order
• Not have been adjudicated mentally incompetent
• Complete an approved firearms safety training course

Missouri CCW Permit Training Requirements

Missouri requires completion of an approved firearms safety training course. The course must be at least 8 hours and must include a live-fire component. The course must be taught by a Missouri-certified or NRA-certified instructor.

How to Apply for a Missouri CCW Permit

Applications are processed through the sheriff's office in the applicant's county of residence.

1. Complete your approved training course
2. Complete the CCW permit application
3. Submit fingerprints (taken at the sheriff's office)
4. Pay the $100 application fee
5. Pass a background check
6. Receive your permit (within 45 days by law)

Missouri CCW Permit Costs

| Fee Component | Amount | |---------------|--------| | Application fee | $100 | | Fingerprinting | Included | | Training course (estimated) | $75–$200 | | Total | $175–$300 |

Missouri CCW permits are valid for 5 years. Renewal fees are $50.

Missouri CCW Permit Reciprocity

Missouri's CCW permit is recognized by more than 35 states. States that honor the Missouri CCW permit include Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Constitutional Carry vs. Permit: Which Is Right for Missouri Residents?

Carry without a permit if: - You only carry within Missouri - You don't travel to other states frequently - You want to avoid the cost and process of getting a permit

Get a CCW permit if: - You travel to other states and want to carry legally - You want documented proof of your carry status - You want the ability to purchase firearms without a NICS check - You want to demonstrate formal training

For most Missouri carriers who travel at all, getting a permit is worth the investment.

<div style="background: linear-gradient(135deg, #1a2744 0%, #2d4a8a 100%); border-radius: 12px; padding: 2rem; margin: 2rem 0; text-align: center;"> <h3 style="color: #f0c040; margin-bottom: 1rem;">Get Your Missouri CCW Permit</h3> <p style="color: #e2e8f0; margin-bottom: 1.5rem;">Constitutional carry covers Missouri — a permit covers 35+ more states. Check your eligibility today.</p> <a href="https://go.safetyccw.com/cf/click/1" style="background: #f0c040; color: #1a2744; padding: 0.875rem 2rem; border-radius: 8px; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; display: inline-block;">Check Your Eligibility →</a> </div>

Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri CCW

Do I need a permit to carry in Missouri?

No. Missouri adopted constitutional carry in 2017. Eligible residents can carry without a permit within Missouri.

How long does it take to get a Missouri CCW permit?

Missouri law requires the sheriff to issue or deny a CCW permit within 45 days of application.

Does Missouri honor out-of-state carry permits?

Yes. Missouri honors carry permits from all other states.

How many states honor the Missouri CCW permit?

More than 35 states recognize the Missouri CCW permit.

What training is required for a Missouri CCW permit?

An 8-hour firearms safety training course taught by a Missouri-certified or NRA-certified instructor, including a live-fire component.