Concealed Carry in Massachusetts
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Massachusetts requires a License to Carry issued by local police chiefs with discretionary approval standards.
How Massachusetts treats Concealed Carry
Massachusetts treats concealed carry as a privilege requiring a License to Carry (LTC) from your local police chief, who may impose conditions or deny the license based on "suitability." The state recognizes two license types: unrestricted and restricted (limited to home and workplace). Processing typically takes several weeks, and applicants must demonstrate good moral character and lack of disqualifying criminal history or restraining orders. Massachusetts law generally restricts magazine capacity to 10 rounds and prohibits certain semi-automatic rifles.
The general definition of Concealed Carry
The legal right to carry a hidden firearm in public, typically requiring a permit.
Concealed carry refers to carrying a firearm on your person in a hidden manner in public spaces. Most states require you to obtain a permit from law enforcement before you can legally concealed carry, though some states allow it without a permit. Requirements vary significantly by state and include background checks, training courses, and fees. Concealed carry laws balance Second Amendment rights with public safety concerns and differ dramatically from state to state.
Read the full Concealed 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 Massachusetts.