CARRY STATUS
CONCEALED101WEST REGION · MT
Montana
Concealed Carry Guide
Montana allows permitless concealed carry for qualifying people. A resident may still apply to the county sheriff for a concealed-weapons permit.
Before you rely on this guide
This is a plain-language starting point, not legal advice. Eligibility, restricted locations, local rules, court orders, and reciprocity can change. Confirm the current law with the official agencies linked on this page.
AT A GLANCE
Montana carry overview
STATE PERMIT
Available
ISSUING AUTHORITY
County sheriff
LAST REVIEWED
August 16, 2026
01
PERMIT AND CARRY STATUS
What the statewide framework says
Montana allows permitless concealed carry for qualifying people. A resident may still apply to the county sheriff for a concealed-weapons permit.
02
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
Training before an application
An optional permit applicant must show familiarity with a firearm through a course, qualification, or another method accepted by Montana law.
Practical next step: Ask the issuing authority whether your instructor, course format, certificate, and live-fire qualification satisfy the current application rules before paying for a class.
Browse training in Montana →03
NONRESIDENTS AND TRAVEL
Crossing a state line changes the rules
Montana permits are generally issued to residents, with limited exceptions. Nonresidents should consult the state's current recognition map and statutory restrictions.
Reciprocity caution: Recognition of a permit does not make every rule identical. Vehicle carry, notice signs, prohibited places, duty to inform, alcohol-related locations, and magazine or firearm restrictions may differ.
VERIFY WITH PRIMARY SOURCES
Official Montana references
Use these sources for current application forms, eligibility language, statutory changes, and agency notices.