Open Carry in Maryland
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Maryland restricts open carry; permits required for handguns, long guns generally prohibited.
How Maryland treats Open Carry
Maryland does not permit open carry of handguns without a permit, and openly carrying a handgun may violate state law. Long guns may be openly carried in some contexts, but Maryland's regulations are restrictive compared to other states. Permits for handgun carry are difficult to obtain and require demonstrating a specific need. Maryland is one of the most restrictive states regarding open carry rights.
The general definition of Open Carry
The legal right to carry a firearm openly and visibly in public.
Open carry means carrying a firearm in plain view on your person or in a vehicle in public spaces. Unlike concealed carry, the weapon is visible to others. Open carry laws vary widely by state and sometimes by city or county within a state. Some states allow open carry without any permit, while others prohibit it entirely or require a permit even for visible firearms.
Read the full Open Carry entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.