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Gun ownership is protected at the federal level by the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. However, the legality of carrying a gun in your car boils down to factors like your state of residence. So, can you carry a rifle in your car when it’s parked or when you’re traveling on public roads?

Depending on a few factors, you can keep a rifle in your car– though you might want to take care doing so

In short, yes, you can keep a rifle in your car. However, the condition, location, and type of rifle in your vehicle depends on your state of residence. In Texas, for example, a motorist can carry a rifle in a car with next to no restrictions. Conversely, in Massachusetts, a driver must unload and lock any large-capacity rifle (a weapon capable of carrying over 10 rounds), per the Massachusetts State Government.

Furthermore, your status could keep you from legally keeping a rifle in your car. For example, convicted felons aren’t permitted to have a gun on their person or in their vehicles. Depending on the state, a felon attempting to carry a rifle in their car could be looking at up severe punishment. According to the USSC, the average penalty for a convicted felon with a firearm is over five years. Ouch. 

In fact, in most states, law-abiding adults can purchase a rifle or shotgun at a younger age than more concealable weapons like handguns and braced pistols. For instance, in California, one of the states with the most restrictive gun laws, a would-be buyer can purchase a rifle at 18 years of age. However, that same adult will have to wait until they’re 21 to buy a handgun.

Drivers are also less likely to earmark a 16, 18, or 20-inch rifle for personal defense in their vehicle. Instead, motorists are likely to transport a rifle for target shooting or hunting.

That said, drivers may not want to leave a rifle in their vehicle, especially where passersby can see it. Theft is a serious safety issue when it comes to firearms. Unfortunately, many thieves who steal guns from parked cars go on to use them in other crimes. Always secure your firearms and refrain from advertising your guns with decals and stickers.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).