As of October 15, 2015, Maine allows permitless carry, enabling individuals 21 years or older who are not prohibited from possessing firearms to carry a concealed handgun without a permit. For active duty military personnel or honorably discharged veterans, the minimum age is 18.
While a permit is not required for eligible individuals, Maine continues to issue Concealed Handgun Permits (CHPs) for those seeking reciprocity with other states or preferring to have a permit.
Maine Concealed Handgun Permits (CHP)
Eligibility Requirements:
To qualify for a Maine Concealed Handgun Permit, applicants must:
Be at least 18 years old
Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
Demonstrate good moral character
Not be prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law
Complete an approved firearms safety training course
Application Process:
Obtain and complete the application: Applications are available through the Maine State Police or local municipal offices.
Submit the application: Provide the completed application, proof of firearms training, and the applicable fee to the issuing authority.
Background check: Undergo a background check conducted by the issuing authority.
Permit issuance: The issuing authority must issue or deny the permit within 30 days for residents of 5 or more years, and within 60 days for non-residents or residents of less than 5 years.
Maine Concealed Handgun Permit Example
Maine Concealed Carry Permit
Maine Open Carry Laws
General Rule: Open carry is legal in Maine for individuals who are not prohibited from possessing firearms.
Exceptions: Open carry is prohibited in certain locations, including:
Establishments licensed for on-premises consumption of liquor if the premises are posted prohibiting firearms or if the individual is under the influence.
Federal buildings and other restricted areas.
Maine Concealed Carry in a Vehicle
With a Permit: Individuals with a valid Maine Concealed Handgun Permit or a recognized out-of-state permit may carry a loaded concealed handgun in a vehicle.
Without a Permit: Under permitless carry, eligible individuals may carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle without a permit.
Maine Concealed Carry Reciprocity
Maine recognizes concealed carry permits from several other states. However, individuals should verify the specific laws of other states when carrying concealed firearms outside Maine.
Even with permitless carry or a valid permit, carrying concealed firearms is prohibited in certain locations, including:
Courthouses
State Parks
Acadia National Park
Schools
Federal buildings
State Capitol area
Private property where firearms are prohibited by the property owner
Establishments licensed for on-premises consumption of liquor, if the premises are posted prohibiting firearms or if the individual is under the influence
Recent Changes in Maine Gun Laws (2025 Updates)
Three-Day Waiting Period: In 2024, Maine enacted a three-day waiting period on gun purchases. This law is currently facing legal challenges and has been temporarily suspended by a federal judge.
Proposed Legislation on Concealed Carry in Schools: A bill introduced in 2025 aims to allow individuals over 21 with a concealed carry permit to carry firearms on school property. This proposal is under legislative consideration.
Changelog 3/12/2025 – Format updated along with all information.
Go To Another State’s Concealed Carry Page
To view a state’sconcealed carry permit information click on the state. The state’s color represents whether a state isShall Issue,May Issue,Constitutional Carry, orRight Denied.
We try to keep the information on this page as up-to-date as possible, but it is your responsibility to verify all information due to changing laws. The information on this page is for informational purposes only and not to provide legal advice. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice concerning any particular issue or problem. Use of and access to this Website, emails, or any links within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship between USA Carry LLC and the user or browser. The opinions expressed at or through this site are the opinions of the individual author and may not reflect the views of USA Carry LLC.
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