Missouri’s concealed weapons law became effective February 26, 2004. The law contains requirements for applicant training and background checks; procedures for sheriffs and the Missouri Department of Revenue to follow in issuing certificates of qualification and endorsements; an explanation of the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s duties regarding concealed weapons endorsements; and restrictions on where concealed weapons may be carried. The new law also contains a provision for persons to carry a concealed firearm in a vehicle without a permit.

A Missouri resident must be at least 23 years old to apply. If you wish to obtain a concealed weapon endorsement, you must first complete a firearms safety course at least eight hours in length. Once the firearms safety course is completed, the next step is to apply for the certificate of qualification at your local sheriff’s office. You must present a copy of the firearms training course certificate, complete an application, and pay the non-refundable fee established by your county of residence. You may apply only in the county in which you reside. The application to the local sheriff (or police chief, if applicable, in first class counties) will contain a sworn statement. This statement verifies the applicant:

• is at least 23 years of age
• is a citizen of the United States.
• is a resident of Missouri or is an armed forces member or spouse stationed in Missouri.
• has not been convicted, or pled guilty or nolo contendre to any felony.
• has no weapons-related misdemeanor conviction.
• has not been convicted within the past five years of a violent misdemeanor.
• has not been convicted of two or more misdemeanors involving DWI or possession or abuse of a controlled substance within the past five years.
• is not a fugitive.
• is not currently charged with a felony.

   

Q: What if I misplace my driver’s license?

A: You must notify the sheriff within seven days of losing your driver’s license. The sheriff will issue a duplicate certificate of application. You must then present this duplicate to DOR to obtain a duplicate driver’s license with a concealed weapons endorsement.

Q: Can I obtain a separate ID card, so my driver’s license won’t show the concealed weapons endorsement?

A: Yes, you can. But, be aware that any law enforcement officer who checks your license through DOR will be notified you are authorized to carry a concealed weapon.

Q: What happens if a disqualifying fact is discovered after the endorsement is issued?

A: There are provisions for both the sheriff and the director of revenue to revoke a person’s endorsement. The courts will be responsible for reporting disqualifying judgments to DOR. 

Q: Is the list of carrying concealed endorsement holders a public record?

A: No, it is private information. This information can be further restricted in the same manner as other driver information if the holder chooses to restrict it. However, as with other restricted listings, law enforcement will have access to that information. 

Q. Is your training approved in my county?

Our instructors are certified and currently approved by Sheriffs in the Missouri counties of St. Louis, St. Charles, Jefferson, Greene and St. Francois and in the City of St. Louis. If your county is not listed, and you will be attending our Missouri Firearms Safety/CCW class for carry concealed weapons endorsement, let us know prior to your attending and we'll submit paperwork to your county Sheriff in Missouri for approval.

Q. Where can I find more information on Missouri's concealed weapons law?

A. The Missouri State Highway Patrol maintains the information you need on its web site: