Massachusetts Gun Laws
If you’re looking to obtain a legal firearm in Massachusetts, here are some things about the permit process you should know:
Massachusetts is a shall-issue state where Licenses to Carry (LTC) are issued at local police stations. A Massachusetts License to Carry (LTC) applicant must be 21 years of age.
Is there a waiting period to buy a gun in Massachusetts?
No. There is no waiting period to purchase a firearm in Massachusetts. However, a Firearm Identification (FID) card or License to Carry (LTC) is required to purchase a firearm.
Do handguns need to be registered in Massachusetts?
Yes. In Massachusetts all sellers of firearms must report firearms sales and transfers to the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services.
Is a permit required to purchase a firearm in Massachusetts?
Yes. In Massachusetts a Firearm Identification (FID) card or License to Carry (LTC) is required to purchase a firearm.
Who is eligible to obtain a License to Carry (LTC) In Massachusetts?
Any Massachusetts resident who is at least 21 years of age can apply for a License to Carry (LTC).
Is firearms training a requirement in Massachusetts for a License to Carry (LTC)?
Yes, in Massachusetts a state-approved firearms training course is required for a License to Carry.
What are the requirements to obtain a License to Carry (LTC) in Massachusetts?
Applicants for a Massachusetts License to Carry must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a legal resident of the United States
- Complete a firearms-training course
- Reside in Massachusetts
- Meet federal law requirements
What are the steps to obtain a License to Carry in Massachusetts?
Your local firearms licensing office may have additional specific requirements.
- Complete a state-approved firearms safety course
- Download and compete an application from the Massachusetts State website gov
- Submit the completed application to local law enforcement with proof of residence, valid photo ID, fingerprint cards, firearms-safety course certificate, and fee. A permit is issued within 40 days if approved.
How much does a Massachusetts License to Carry (LTC)?
A Massachusetts License to Carry (LTC) costs $100.
Does Massachusetts recognize pistol permits from other states?
No. Massachusetts does not honor concealed-carry permits from other states.
Is Massachusetts a Constitutional Carry state?
No. Massachusetts is not a Constitutional Carry state.
Is Massachusetts an Open Carry state?
Yes. Massachusetts allows open carry for anyone with the proper license.
Is Massachusetts a Stand Your Ground state?
Yes. Massachusetts is not a Stand Your Ground state. State law imposes a duty to retreat.
Are AR-style and other semi-auto rifles legal in Massachusetts?
Yes and no. Massachusetts uses a two-point banned-features system to define an “assault weapon,” and if a semi-automatic rifle has the two features, ownership is prohibited.
Are standard-capacity magazines allowed in Massachusetts?
No. Magazine capacity more than 10 rounds is prohibited.
Does Massachusetts have gun-storage laws?
Yes. The Massachusetts gun-storage law states that all guns must be stored in a locked container or equipped with a tamper-resistant mechanical lock or other safety device.
Is Massachusetts a Red Flag state?
Yes. Massachusetts is a red-flag-law state. An immediate family member or law enforcement officer may file a petition ordering the immediate suspension and surrender of any license to carry firearms or firearm identification card which the respondent may hold, as well as order the respondent to surrender all firearms, rifles, shotguns, machine guns, weapons or ammunition which the respondent then controls, owns or possesses.
Does Massachusetts have ammunition restrictions?
Yes. In Massachusetts, you need to have a firearms license to buy or possess ammunition. To buy ammo in the state, you must be at least 18 years old for long gun and at least 21 years old to buy handgun rounds. Ammo purchases must be conducted face-to-face.
