Article 2: Massachusetts Gun Laws 2025: What You Need to Know

Massachusetts Gun Laws 2025: What You Need to Know

Massachusetts has some of the most comprehensive firearms regulations in the country. Whether you're a new gun owner or renewing your License to Carry (LTC), staying updated on current laws is essential to staying compliant and protecting your rights.

This guide covers the key points of Massachusetts gun laws as of 2025.

1. License to Carry (LTC) and Firearm Identification (FID)

License to Carry (LTC)

The LTC allows you to:

  • Purchase and possess handguns, rifles, and shotguns
  • Carry a concealed handgun in public (subject to restrictions)
  • Possess high-capacity magazines (if lawfully owned before 1994 or properly registered)

Firearms Identification Card (FID)

The FID allows you to:

  • Possess non-large-capacity rifles and shotguns
  • Cannot carry handguns or high-capacity firearms

🔹 You must be 21 or older for an LTC, and 18+ (or 15+ with parental consent) for an FID.

2. Safe Storage Laws

Massachusetts law requires firearms to be stored:

  • In a locked container or equipped with a tamper-resistant mechanical lock (e.g., trigger lock)
  • Out of reach of unauthorized users, especially children

Failure to comply can lead to criminal charges, even if no harm occurs.

3. Magazine Capacity Limits

Massachusetts defines a large-capacity feeding device as one that:

  • Accepts more than 10 rounds for rifles/pistols
  • Accepts more than 5 rounds for shotguns

Possession is restricted unless you owned and registered it before the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban or are exempt (e.g., law enforcement).

4. Assault Weapons Ban

Massachusetts prohibits:

  • Sale, transfer, or new ownership of “assault weapons” as defined by state law
  • Possession unless grandfathered in and properly registered

This includes certain AR-15 style rifles and others listed in state regulations.

5. Firearm Transportation

When transporting firearms in Massachusetts:

  • Handguns must be unloaded and locked in a case
  • Long guns must also be unloaded; a locking case is strongly recommended
  • Ammunition should be stored separately

🚗 You cannot have a loaded firearm in your vehicle unless you have an LTC and it is under your direct control (e.g., holstered on your person).

6. Reciprocity and Travel

Massachusetts does not honor out-of-state LTC permits.

If you're traveling with firearms:

  • Ensure compliance with federal law (FOPA: Firearm Owners Protection Act)
  • Follow locked/unloaded transportation rules at all times

7. Red Flag Law (ERPO)

The Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law allows family or law enforcement to petition the court to remove firearms from someone deemed a danger to themselves or others.

This is a civil process—not a criminal charge—but can still affect your ability to possess firearms.

8. Penalties for Noncompliance

Violating Massachusetts gun laws can result in:

  • Misdemeanors or felonies
  • Fines, imprisonment, and revocation of your LTC or FID
  • Permanent ineligibility to possess firearms

Stay Legal, Stay Informed

Understanding Massachusetts firearm laws is key to being a responsible gun owner. Whether you're new to firearms or a seasoned LTC holder, ongoing training and legal awareness help protect your rights and others’ safety.

✅ Need a certified safety course? Register now for our Basic Firearm Safety Course
🧠 Want to stay sharp? Attend our Refuse To Be A Victim® seminar or RSO certification course.