Things to consider regarding interstate travel with firearms
Federal law does not prohibit US citizens from transporting guns across state lines. However, each state and most cities have laws governing firearm transportation. Many concealed firearm carriers face legal predicaments when moving through various state lines with their weapons. When you intend to transport firearms between two or more states, you should consider these key points to avoid getting into trouble with law enforcement leading to confiscation of your weapons.
- Concealed Carry Reciprocity for Your State
Before departing your current state, you must first check whether the state you plan on visiting or passing through recognizes carry permits issued by your state. Sadly, no state has reciprocity with all the 50 States of the US. Due to this situation, you must research which states will consent to your state’s concealed carry permit.
A small number of states only recognize their own permits. They don’t accept permits from other states. If you have a concealed carry permit from your state but you don’t possess a license issued by one of these states, then you cannot conceal carry your firearms in these states.
To keep yourself out of trouble you should always check the laws of other states that you would cross into, not just your endpoint. In the event, a state does not recognize your carry permit, read rule two.
- Firearm Storage in Vehicles
If you are conveying your firearm in a car and you’ll be crossing state lines, you should store the gun in a case with a lock. The case is used to store your handgun securely when it’s not in use. In some states, you are legally required to have secure storage for your firearm. If you move into a state that does not acknowledge your concealed carrier permit, place your unloaded handgun in a locked case and store it in your trunk. Additionally, the weapon’s ammunition should be separate from the firearm.
- The Obligation to Notify a Law Enforcement Officer
Many states require all concealed carriers to present their carry permits when requested by a police officer. However, there are some states that necessitate carriers to instantly inform any law enforcement officer that you come in contact with about your concealed weapon. If you move or drive into one of these states, you are required to inform a police officer before he or she asks you.
In case, if a law enforcement officer approaches you, give them your concealed carry license with your driver’s license and registration, this will prevent you from encountering any legal problems. Remember though not to reach anywhere near your firearm without the officer’s consent.
- Constraints on Higher Capacity Magazines
Another rule that is not well known is the restriction on the magazine capacity on handguns. If you are passing over a state that bans magazines that can hold more than 15 rounds, then don’t transport a magazine that can hold such. Noncompliance with magazine restrictions will cause law enforcement to seize your weapons. As with rule two always check the laws for a particular state you are visiting.
