CCW Permit Guide
Massachusetts Concealed
Carry Permit 2026
Massachusetts concealed carry requirements: permit fees, training hours, reciprocity states, prohibited locations, and official application information. Massachusetts became effectively shall-issue following the Bruen decision, though the licensing authority retains discretion. A License to Carry (LTC) is required for carrying. Massachusetts also requires a Firearm Identification Card (FID) to possess rifles or shotguns.
Shall-Issue State
Non-Resident Permits Available
Open Carry Allowed
2026 CCW Quick Facts
Reference 2026
Resident Fee
$100
Required for concealed carry
Validity
6yr
Renewal required after expiration
Training
Required
Massachusetts Approved Firearms Safety Course required; live fire component
Processing
60
typical processing time
Permit Details
Massachusetts CCW Permit Requirements
Official requirements for obtaining a Massachusetts concealed carry permit or weapon license.
Issuing Authority
Local Police Chief / Licensing Authority (License to Carry)
— Official Site
Permitless Carry
Permit Required — a permit is required to carry concealed
Issue Standard
Shall Issue — the issuing authority must issue a permit to any qualified applicant who meets the requirements
Open Carry
Allowed
— permit required for open carry
Resident Fee
$100.00
Non-Resident Fee
$100.00
Permit Valid
6 years from issuance date — renewal required
Minimum Age
21 years old (resident permit)
Background Check
Required — FBI NICS background check required for permit application
Processing Time
60
Duty to Inform
Yes — Required — you must immediately notify law enforcement officers that you are carrying when contacted
Training Requirements
Massachusetts CCW Training Requirements
Training Required
Massachusetts requires completion of an approved firearms training course before a permit will be issued. Approved training types: Massachusetts Approved Firearms Safety Course required; live fire component.
Massachusetts requires completion of an approved firearms training course before a permit will be issued. Approved training types: Massachusetts Approved Firearms Safety Course required; live fire component.
Prohibited Locations
Where You Cannot Carry in Massachusetts
Schools, courts, correctional facilities, government buildings, polling places, any property posted prohibiting firearms, private property where owner has posted prohibition
Note: Federal law also prohibits carry in federal facilities, federal courthouses, and other locations regardless of state law. Always check both state and federal restrictions.
Important Notes
Massachusetts-Specific CCW Information
Massachusetts requires both an LTC (to carry) and an FID (to possess rifles/shotguns). Both open and concealed carry require the LTC. License valid for 6 years. Massachusetts does not honor any other state's carry permit and other states generally do not honor Massachusetts LTCs. Duty to inform law enforcement.
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Concealed carry laws in Massachusetts are subject to change through legislation and court decisions. Always verify current requirements with Local Police Chief / Licensing Authority (License to Carry) or a qualified firearms attorney before carrying a firearm.
Source: Local Police Chief / Licensing Authority (License to Carry) (www.mass.gov).
For reference 2026. Laws change — always verify directly with the official issuing authority before carrying.