Features > Gun Laws and Travel > Maryland Gun Laws and Travel Guide
Maryland is not gun friendly. If you are traveling from state to state and carrying, you need to know the situation in each state you are entering or you could get into trouble. For certain states or if you have any doubt at all, keeping moving through the state (reference the McClure-Volkmer Act to only stop for gas and emergencies) towards your final destination state. Your destination state must have acceptable laws for your stay. We make some generalities with our color map here for ease of use so you should always look up the current details of the laws. Handgun laws are where it usually varies the most. This is a controversial issue but which ever side you are on, it is better to have informed people out there. You can also download an easy to print new 2013 version with all states and details.
Maryland Gun Law Travel Guide Basics
Ownership: unrestricted, no permit or license necessary
Consistency of laws: uniform throughout state, local areas are prohibited from changing laws
Self-defense: NO castle doctrine
Open carry: prohibited
Concealed carry: license required on judgment, no permits from other state accepted
Vehicle carry handguns: license required to transport a loaded handgun, must be unloaded, cased and stowed in trunk or outside compartment
Vehicle carry long guns: unloaded, cased and stowed in trunk or outside compartment
Official source information
Maryland Statutes
Maryland Legislature
Maryland Shall Issue
Maryland State Home Page