New Mexico Gun Laws
As the landscape of concealed carry laws varies across states, it’s crucial to know your rights and responsibilities before carrying a concealed firearm. New Mexico, often referred to as the Land of Enchantment, has its own unique regulations that you need to be aware of.
Overview of New Mexico Gun Laws
Constitutional Carry
In New Mexico, constitutional carry is not recognized. This means that you must obtain a concealed carry permit to carry a firearm in a concealed manner.
Open Carry Permitted
Unlike some states, New Mexico allows for open carry without a permit or license for individuals aged 19 or older who are legally allowed to own a firearm. However, be aware that certain restrictions apply, and it’s important to familiarize yourself with local laws.
Carry-In Vehicle
New Mexico permits both concealed and open carry without a permit within vehicles for individuals aged 19 or older who can legally own a firearm. This offers a level of flexibility and convenience for those who wish to carry while on the go.
Carry-In State Park
Do you enjoy spending time in New Mexico’s beautiful state parks? If you have a New Mexico Concealed Handgun License (CHL) or a permit from a reciprocal state, you’re allowed to carry your firearm, whether concealed or openly, within state parks, following the Firearm guidelines.
Carry-In Restaurants
New Mexico allows concealed carry within restaurants, provided that the establishment’s revenue from food sales is over 60%. However, it’s important to note that carrying firearms within bars is prohibited, so always be aware of the specific rules for the venue you’re visiting.
No Weapon Sign Enforced
Clear signage indicating a prohibition on concealed carry is enforced in New Mexico. It’s important to respect these signs and avoid carrying firearms on any property where such signs are displayed.
Must Notify Officer
Unlike some states, New Mexico does not have a duty-to-inform law. This means that you are not obligated to inform law enforcement officers that you are carrying a concealed firearm. However, you must have your concealed carry license on your person and display it upon the request of a law enforcement officer.
New Mexico CCW Reciprocity List
New Mexico has reciprocity agreements with a substantial number of states, allowing individuals with valid concealed carry permits from those states to legally carry concealed firearms within New Mexico. It’s important to note that some states have restricted reciprocity, so it’s essential to stay informed about the current agreements.
States Honoring CCW
New Mexico recognizes concealed carry permits from the following states:
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
States NOT Honoring CCW
Unfortunately, some states do not honor concealed carry permits issued by New Mexico. These states include:
- Connecticut
- California
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- New York
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Washington
- Washington D.C
Honors These States CCW Permits
In addition to reciprocity agreements, New Mexico honors concealed carry permits from the following states:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Florida
- Idaho
- Kansas
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- Wyoming
How Reciprocity Works In New Mexico
Reciprocity allows individuals with valid concealed carry permits from reciprocal states to carry concealed firearms in New Mexico. While carrying, they must adhere to the firearm laws of the county and state they are in. This offers a level of convenience for travelers who want to maintain their personal safety while exploring the Land of Enchantment.
Reciprocity Agreements In New Mexico
Places Allowed
Individuals with concealed carry permits are generally allowed to carry firearms in the following places in New Mexico:
- State parks
- State and national forests
- Roadside rest areas
- Vehicles
- All areas of the state (excluding those listed as off-limits)
Places Not Allowed
There are certain places in New Mexico where concealed carry is prohibited, including:
- Public schools, colleges, and universities (except in a vehicle if older than 19)
- Preschools
- Law enforcement agency facilities
- Courts (any State, County, Municipal, or Tribal Court)
- New Mexico State Capitol building
- State wildlife management areas
- Tribal land
- Public buses
- Airport security zones
- Private property with “No Carry” signs
- Any place prohibited by Federal Law
Conceal Carry Laws in New Mexico
Open Carry
Open carry without a license is legal and common in New Mexico. State preemption on gun laws prevents local authorities from restricting open carry. However, you will need a license to carry in liquor stores, and certain places are off-limits for open carry. The minimum age for open carry is 19.
Carry-In Vehicle
New Mexico allows a loaded, concealed firearm to be carried in a vehicle (including motorcycles and bicycles) without a license to carry. However, once you exit the vehicle, you cannot have the firearm concealed on your person unless you have a concealed carry license.
Carry-In State Parks
Carrying a firearm in state parks, state/national forests and roadside rest areas is prohibited.
Carry-In Restaurants
Carrying into a restaurant that primarily sells wine or beer and derives over 60% of its annual receipts from food sales is permitted. However, if a “NO WEAPONS” sign is posted, carrying is not allowed. Please note that carrying is illegal in restaurants that sell hard liquor.
Constitutional Carry
New Mexico does not have constitutional carry laws in place, meaning a concealed carry permit is required to carry a firearm concealed.
No Weapon Signs Enforced
Signs prohibiting concealed carry on private property or in licensed liquor establishments are enforced in New Mexico.
Must Notify Officer
New Mexico does not have a duty-to-inform law, but you are required to carry your concealed carry license at all times and display it to law enforcement when requested.
Conclusion
As a responsible gun owner, it’s vital to stay informed about concealed carry laws and reciprocity agreements in New Mexico. Knowing your rights and adhering to the state’s regulations ensures a safe and lawful carrying experience.
FAQs;
1- Can non-residents apply for a concealed carry permit in New Mexico?
No, New Mexico only issues concealed carry permits to residents.
2- What is Constitutional Carry?
Constitutional carry refers to the legal carrying of a firearm without the need for a concealed carry permit.
3- Are there any age restrictions for obtaining a concealed carry permit?
Yes, individuals must be at least 19 years old to obtain a concealed carry permit in New Mexico.
4- Can I carry my firearm in a state park in New Mexico?
Yes, you can carry your firearm in a state park if you have a New Mexico Concealed Handgun License (CHL) or a permit from a reciprocal state.
5- How do reciprocity agreements affect out-of-state permit holders?
Reciprocity agreements allow individuals with valid concealed carry permits from reciprocal states to legally carry concealed firearms in New Mexico. They must adhere to New Mexico’s firearm laws during their time in the state.
6- Can you carry a concealed weapon in New Mexico?
New Mexico allows concealed carry of firearms with a concealed handgun license issued by the state.
7- Can a nonresident open carry in New Mexico?
Yes, New Mexico allows open carry of firearms without a permit for both residents and non-residents.
