Overview for Massachusetts
Massachusetts has very strict firearm regulations compared to most states.
Massachusetts has 5 different types of firearm licenses. A class A allows the carry and concealed carry of Large Capacity handguns, rifles and mace (yes you need a firearm permit to carry mace in Massachusetts). It costs a total of $200, $100 for the license itself, and $100 for the safety course. You must be 21 or older to apply for a Class A license. Class A Restricted licenses cost the same as a regular Class A, but only allow open carry of large capacity handguns, rifles and maces, concealed carry is not allowed on a Class A Restricted permit. Class B licenses also cost $200 and allow the holder to open carry, not conceal a non-large capacity handguns, rifles, and mace. Applicants must be 21 or older. An FID card costs $200, and allows open carry of non-large capacity riffles/shotguns and mace. Applicants must be 18 or older, or 15 and up with parent’s consent. An FID card is required to purchase any firearm in Massachusetts. A Restricted FID cost $25, this only allows for the carry of mace/pepper spray. Applicants must be 18 or 15 with parental consent.
Massachusetts defines large capacity handguns as being able to hold 10 or more rounds, non-large capacity handguns carry 10 or less rounds. Large capacity rifles and shotguns can hold 5 or more rounds, non-large capacity rifles/shotguns hold 5 or less rounds.
| Law | Long-guns | Handguns |
|---|---|---|
| Permit to Purchase | Yes | Yes |
| Open Carry | No | Yes |
| Concealed Carry | No | Yes |
| State Preemption of Local Restrictions | No | No |
| Firearm Registration | No | No |
| Owner License | Yes | Yes |
The Concealed Carry Permit
(often encompasses the open carry permit)
- Price: $100 for both Class A license that’s for all firearms, shotguns and rifles and; Class B for “non- high capacity firearms” and high capacity long guns
- Valid for 6 years
- Regarding Non-residents of Massachusetts: 100 for both Class A license that’s for all firearms, shotguns and rifles and; Class B for “non- high capacity firearms” and high capacity long guns
- Non-resident permits are valid for 1 year
- An owner's license is irrevelent. This state requires an FOID card
- Permit to Purchase: A FOID card is required
- Permits to Purchase Year/Cost: Cost $100
Official Concealed Carry page for Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Concealed Carry Reciprocity
Massachusetts Magazine Capacity
Massachusetts Imitation Firearms
What is classified as an Imitation Firearm in Massachusetts?
The following is a list of imitation firearms in Massachusetts:
- BB gun
- Air rifle
Does Massachusetts have an inheritance gun law?
Yes, Massachusetts has an inheritance gun law.