Concealed carry laws in Vermont are among the most permissive in the United States, reflecting the state’s long-standing commitment to individual rights and self-reliance. Here’s a clear summary of what you need to know about concealed carry in Vermont.
Constitutional Carry in Vermont
Vermont is a constitutional carry state, meaning both open and concealed carry of firearms are legal without a permit for anyone who is legally allowed to possess a firearm. The state does not issue concealed carry permits, and there is no application process for residents or non-residents1.
Minimum Age: The minimum age to carry a firearm (openly or concealed) is 18, although state law allows possession and transport by those 16 and older under certain circumstances. Federal law, however, sets the minimum age for purchasing a handgun from a licensed dealer at 21.
Residency: Both residents and non-residents can carry without a permit, as long as they are legally entitled to possess a firearm.
Training: There is no training requirement to carry a firearm in Vermont.
Firearm Purchase and Possession
Background Checks: All firearm sales must go through a licensed dealer, with background checks required. Exceptions include transfers to family members.
Purchase Permits: No permit is required to purchase a handgun.
Registration: Handguns do not need to be registered in Vermont.
Waiting Period: There is no waiting period after purchasing a handgun.
Carry Locations and Restrictions
Bars and Restaurants: Concealed carry is allowed in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol unless posted otherwise.
State/National Parks, Forests, and WMAs: Concealed carry is permitted in these areas.
Roadside Rest Areas: Concealed carry is allowed.
Hotels: Vermont law does not specifically address firearms at hotels, so policies are set by individual hotels.
Restricted Areas: It is illegal to carry in locations where notice prohibiting firearms is given by actual communication or posted signs. Newer laws, such as S. 4 (2022), also restrict possession of firearms in hospital buildings.
Daycare Centers and Public Buildings: There are ongoing legislative efforts to prohibit firearms in daycare centers and certain public buildings, but as of now, specific restrictions may apply only to posted locations.
Additional Considerations
Magazine Limits: Vermont generally restricts the sale, purchase, possession, manufacture, and importation of high-capacity magazines (more than 15 rounds for handguns), with some exemptions and a grandfather clause for magazines lawfully possessed before April 11, 2018.
Brandishing: While Vermont law does not specifically define “brandishing,” intentionally pointing or aiming a firearm at another person—except in self-defense or lawful duty—is illegal.
Duty to Inform Law Enforcement: There is no legal requirement to inform law enforcement that you are carrying a concealed firearm.
Alcohol and Drugs: State law does not specifically address carrying while under the influence, but it is strongly discouraged.
Recent and Proposed Legislative Changes
Safe Storage: There are proposals to require secure storage of firearms when not under the owner’s immediate control, and to provide subsidies for safe storage lockers.
Red Flag Laws: Vermont has established Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs), allowing courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a risk to themselves or others.
Municipal Regulation: Some legislative efforts aim to allow municipalities more authority to regulate firearms, but as of now, state law generally preempts local regulations except for discharge of firearms.
Summary Table
| Feature | Vermont Law/Policy |
|---|---|
| Concealed Carry Permit | Not required |
| Open Carry | Legal without permit |
| Minimum Age | 18 to carry (16 to possess in some cases) |
| Background Check | Required for most sales |
| Registration | Not required |
| Magazine Limit | 15 rounds for handguns |
| Duty to Inform | No |
| Restricted Locations | Posted areas, hospitals, certain public buildings (proposed) |
| Training Requirement | No |
Vermont’s concealed carry laws are straightforward: anyone legally allowed to possess a firearm can carry concealed or openly without a permit. Always be aware of restricted areas and stay informed about changing laws and proposals, especially regarding safe storage and prohibited locations.
Sources:
- https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/resources/ccw_reciprocity_map/vt-gun-laws/
- https://www.gunsensevt.org/2025_legislative_agenda
- https://everytownresearch.org/rankings/state/vermont/
- https://www.handgunlaw.us/documents/Permitless_Carry_States.pdf