Minnesota Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW): Gun Laws, Application, Requirements & Online Training

In Minnesota, obtaining a concealed carry permit is a straightforward process, thanks to its “shall-issue” policy. As long as you meet the requirements, your application for a Permit to Carry a Pistol (PCP) will be accepted.

This article will delve into Minnesota’s concealed carry laws, reciprocity agreements with other states, location restrictions, buying and selling firearms, the Castle Doctrine, permit requirements, application process, and frequently asked questions. Let’s dive in!

Minnesota’s Shall-Issue Policy and Permit Requirements

1. Shall-Issue Policy: Minnesota operates under a “shall-issue” policy, which means that if you meet all the requirements, you are entitled to a concealed carry permit.
2. Minimum Age Requirement: To apply for a Minnesota concealed carry permit, you must be at least twenty-one years old.
3. Firearms Training: Before applying for a CCW permit, you must complete a Minnesota-approved firearms training course, which covers firearm use, self-defense, and the legal aspects of carrying a concealed weapon.
4. No Criminal Prohibitions: Your application will be denied if you have a Minnesota court order prohibiting firearm possession or if you are on the list of a criminal gang investigation system.
5. Residency Requirements: For residents, you must apply for a permit in your local county. Non-residents can apply in any county in Minnesota.
6. Meeting Federal Requirements: Ensure you meet all federal law requirements for a concealed carry permit.

Minnesota’s Reciprocity Agreements

Minnesota has reciprocity agreements with several other states, allowing CCW permit holders to carry concealed in different jurisdictions while adhering to Weapons laws. Here’s how it works:

States Minnesota Honors CCW Permits From

• Minnesota honors concealed carry permits from fifteen states that have similar reciprocity agreements.

States That Honor Minnesota CCW Permits

• Fourteen states honor Minnesota CCW permits, allowing permit holders to carry concealed within their territories.

Restricted Reciprocity States

• Two states only accept Minnesota CCW permits issued to residents and not non-residents.

Permitless Carry States

• Fourteen states allow permitless carry, meaning you don’t need a CCW permit to possess a firearm, but other requirements must be met.

Regardless of the reciprocity deal with a state, it is essential to follow the concealed carry laws of that state at all times.

Location Restrictions for CCW Holders

While a CCW permit grants you the right to carry concealed, certain locations in Minnesota are considered off-limits. As a CCW holder, you are not allowed to possess firearms in the following places:

1. School Premises: Concealed carry is prohibited on primary, secondary, elementary, government-owned, and private-owned school premises.
2. School Buses and Transportation Vehicles: Concealed carry is not allowed on school buses or vehicles used to transport students.
3. Private Buildings with Prohibitive Signage: Concealed carry is prohibited in privately owned buildings or properties that display signs prohibiting firearm possession.
4. State Prisons and Correctional Facilities: Concealed carry is not permitted in state prisons and correctional facilities.
5. Hospitals and Medical Facilities: Concealed carry is restricted in hospitals, health centers, and other medical facilities.
6. Workplace Restrictions: Employers may prohibit the possession of firearms within their premises.
7. Childcare Centers and Daycare: Concealed carry is not allowed in buildings used for childcare or daycare.
8. Under the Influence: Concealed carry is prohibited while under the influence of alcohol or any intoxicating substance.
9. Capitol Areas and Leased Properties: Concealed carry is restricted in capitol areas and leased properties of the state government.
10. Minnesota Zoo Garden: Concealed carry is not permitted within the premises of the Minnesota Zoo Garden.
11. Hotels: Concealed carry is at the discretion of the person in charge, and they can refuse accommodation if you have a CCW.
12. Game Reserves: Concealed carry is not allowed in game reserve areas of the state.
13. Restricted Federal Areas: Concealed carry is prohibited in places where federal law restricts firearm possession.

Places Where Concealed Carry is Allowed

Contrary to common misconceptions, Minnesota’s concealed carry laws allow you to possess firearms in certain places, including:

1. Restaurants and Bars: You can carry concealed in restaurants and bars unless you are under the influence of alcohol or the establishment has a no-firearms policy.
2. Private Vehicles: Concealed carry is permitted in your private vehicle, provided you have your Minnesota CCW permit.
3. Roadsides and Rest Areas: Concealed carry is allowed along roadsides and in rest areas.
4. State Wildlife Management Areas: Concealed carry is permitted in state wildlife management areas, except in specific counties like Washington, Dakota, Scott, and Carver.
5. Traveling in an Aircraft: Concealed carry is allowed when traveling on a private plane.
6. Places of Worship: Concealed carry is permitted in places of worship unless they have signage prohibiting firearms.

Concealed Carry for Law Enforcement Officers

Law enforcement officers are granted specific privileges when it comes to concealed carry in Minnesota. According to the Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act:

• Active duty, out-of-service, and retired officers can conceal carry in any jurisdiction in the United States without location restrictions or limitations from state or municipal laws.

To qualify for concealed carry, retired and out-of-service officers must provide one of the following documents:

• An identification card and other documentation of firearms training issued by a Minnesota law enforcement agency.
• An identification card issued by a Minnesota agency and certification from a state police department licensed instructor for firearm training.

Buying and Selling Firearms in Minnesota

Before purchasing a firearm in Minnesota, it’s crucial to understand the laws that govern gun transactions, transportation, and transfers. Here are some essential points:

1. Firearm Purchase Permits: To buy a firearm in Minnesota, you must have a purchase permit or a Minnesota CCW permit. The same permit is also required for sales, loans, transfers, and gifting of firearms.
2. Background Checks and Handgun Registrations: There are no separate background checks for firearm purchases in Minnesota, as they are conducted during the permit application process. Handgun registrations are not required in the state.
3. Waiting Period: If you possess a Minnesota CCW permit or a purchase permit, you can complete a firearm sale without a waiting period. Without these permits, you may have to wait for five to seven days before completing the purchase.
4. Age Requirement: You must be at least eighteen years old to possess or transport a firearm in Minnesota. However, you must be at least twenty-one to purchase a firearm or obtain a Minnesota CCW permit.
5. Process of Purchasing a Handgun: To buy a firearm, you need either a Minnesota CCW permit or a permit to purchase or transfer a gun. You can apply for a purchase permit at your local police station or county sheriff’s office.
6. Castle Doctrine in Minnesota: Although Minnesota does not have a specific Castle Doctrine law, it does recognize the principle of no duty to retreat when faced with a life-threatening situation. Deadly force can be used as a last resort to protect oneself from severe bodily harm or death.

Conclusion

Minnesota’s shall-issue policy and fair gun laws make it a favorable state for concealed carry permit holders. By following the state’s reciprocity agreements, location restrictions, and purchasing regulations, gun owners can lawfully carry concealed in various situations. Remember, concealed carry comes with great responsibility, and understanding the laws is crucial to ensure safety and compliance.

FAQs;

Q1. How Long Is My Minnesota CCW Permit Valid?

Minnesota CCW permits are valid for five years.

Q2. How Much Will Minnesota CCW Permit Application Cost?

An initial permit application will cost $100, while renewal applications cost between $75 to $85.

Q3. How Long Will It Take Me To Get My Minnesota CCW Permit?

The processing period for the CCW application is one month.

Q4. How Soon Can I Renew My Minnesota CCW Application?

You can renew your permit within ninety days before the expiry date. You also have a grace period of thirty days after the expiry date, with an additional $10 fee.

Q5. What Are the Requirements for a Minnesota CCW Permit?

To obtain a Minnesota concealed carry permit, you must be at least twenty-one years old, complete a state-approved firearms training course, submit the necessary documents, and meet federal law requirements for the CCW application.