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New Mexico Concealed Carry

devinschumacher edited this page Oct 30, 2024 · 2 revisions

New Mexico Concealed Carry Gun Permit Laws

Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.


New Mexico Concealed Carry Gun Permit Laws

Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.

Summary of New Mexico Gun Laws

New Mexico operates as a shall-issue state for concealed weapons licenses issued by the Department of Public Safety. Residents must obtain a New Mexico Concealed Handgun License (CHL), while non-residents can carry with a permit from a state that New Mexico honors.

Firearm Sales and Background Checks

As of July 1, 2019, background checks are mandatory for private firearm sales in New Mexico under SB-8. Exceptions include sales between law enforcement officers and immediate family members. Selling a gun without a background check is now a misdemeanor offense.

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Open Carry Laws

Open carry is legal in New Mexico for individuals aged 19 and older who can legally possess a firearm. Some restrictions apply, such as on tribal lands and at establishments selling hard liquor.

Concealed Carry Requirements

To carry a concealed loaded firearm on foot, residents must hold a New Mexico CHL, which specifies the category and caliber of handgun allowed. The minimum age for obtaining a CHL is 21, and applicants must complete a 15-hour handgun safety course that includes live-fire instruction.

Reciprocity and Other Provisions

New Mexico recognizes concealed carry permits from states with reciprocity agreements. Non-resident licenses are generally not issued, except for military personnel permanently stationed in New Mexico and their dependents.

Self-Defense Laws

While New Mexico does not have a specific Castle Doctrine statute, State v. Couch (1946) established that individuals threatened with an attack have the right to stand their ground and defend themselves. Homicide is justifiable under New Mexico law in cases of necessary defense of life, family, or property, lawful defense against imminent danger, or during lawful attempts to apprehend a felon or suppress a riot. Defendants using self-defense must demonstrate reasonable fear of immediate harm, use of appropriate force to counter the threat, and lack of provocation.

These laws outline the framework for firearm ownership, carrying, and self-defense rights in New Mexico.

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New Mexico Gun Laws at a Glance

New Mexico Concealed Carry FAQs

Gun Permit Licensure?

If New Mexico requires a license to carry a concealed firearm, how are those licenses issued? New Mexico is a shall-issue state. Residents must obtain a New Mexico Concealed Handgun License (CHL), while non-residents can carry with a permit from a state that New Mexico honors.

Constitutional Carry?

Does New Mexico allow constitutional carry?

No. New Mexico does not allow constitutional carry.

Open Carry Permitted?

Is open carry permitted in New Mexico?

Yes, without a license. Any person who is at least 19 years old and legally entitled to possess a firearm can open carry.

Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?

What is the minimum age in New Mexico to get a concealed carry license?

The minimum age to concealed carry in New Mexico is 21.

Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?

Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in New Mexico with a concealed carry license (or under permitless carry if applicable)? No. State law limits concealed carry license holders to carrying one concealed gun at any given time. However, any number of firearms can be openly carried.

Tasers or Stun Guns?

Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in New Mexico?

Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a license.

Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?

Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in New Mexico?

Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in New Mexico.

Magazine Limits for Handguns?

Does New Mexico have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?

No. New Mexico does not have magazine capacity restrictions.

Ammunition Restrictions?

Does New Mexico have ammunition restrictions?

No. New Mexico does not have ammunition restrictions.

These FAQs cover essential information about concealed and open carry laws, self-defense tools, and related regulations in New Mexico.

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Carry Locations FAQ

CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in New Mexico?

  • Yes, with a New Mexico Concealed Handgun License or a permit from a state that New Mexico honors.

CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in New Mexico?

  • Yes, with a New Mexico Concealed Handgun License or a permit from a state that New Mexico honors, for state/national parks and forests. See the National Parks website for links to each Park in New Mexico.
  • No for WMAs.

CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in New Mexico?

  • Home and business owners may legally forbid firearms on their property and/or in their buildings with appropriately displayed signage stating such prohibition. The individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about its concealed carry policy. See the Handguns at Hotels page for additional information.

STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? Does New Mexico have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?

  • Not addressed in New Mexico state law, although employers may have a policy.

CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in New Mexico?

  • Yes, (including motorcycles and bicycles) without a license for anyone 19 or older who is not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm. However, if you don’t have a license, you may not have the weapon concealed on your person when you exit your vehicle.

CARRY IN BARS/RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in New Mexico?

  • You may conceal carry exclusively in restaurants licensed to sell only beer and wine that derive no less than 60% of their annual gross receipts from the sale of food for consumption on the premises, with a New Mexico CHL or a permit from a state that New Mexico honors, unless posted (or the person is verbally instructed by the owner or manager that the carrying of a firearm is not permitted in the restaurant). Carry is not permitted in bars or restaurants that serve hard liquor.

Key State Laws

Duty to Inform Officer You’re Carrying?

Do you have a duty to inform a police officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in New Mexico? No. There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in New Mexico.

DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO Carry License?

Is my New Mexico driver’s license linked to my New Mexico carry license? Yes. Your New Mexico driver’s license is linked to your New Mexico concealed handgun license. Therefore, a law enforcement officer will be notified immediately that you are a concealed carry license holder if they run your driver’s license.

“No Weapons Allowed” Signs Enforced?

Are “No Weapons Allowed” signs enforced in New Mexico? If yes, violating the sign would be considered to be a crime. If no, violating the sign would not be considered a criminal offense. Yes. A licensee may not carry a concealed handgun on or about his person on private property that has signs posted prohibiting the carrying of concealed weapons or when verbally told so by a person lawfully in possession of the property.

Preemption?

Does New Mexico have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e. Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)? Yes, the state has preemption of firearms laws in New Mexico.

Red Flag Law?

Does New Mexico have a red flag law? New Mexico has a red flag law that took effect on May 20, 2020. It allows law enforcement officers to file a petition ordering the respondent to surrender all firearms which the respondent then controls, owns or possesses and further enjoins the respondent from purchasing, receiving or attempting to purchase, possess or receive any firearm while the order is in effect.

Brandishing?

Does New Mexico state law define brandishing? No definition of brandishing was found in New Mexico law. However, it is illegal to endanger the safety of another by handling or using a firearm or other deadly weapon in a negligent manner.

NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING?

Does New Mexico issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents? Yes, but only for members of the military stationed in NM and their dependents.

PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY?

Does New Mexico allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law? No, however, the information is available for law enforcement.

Carry While Using Alcohol or Drugs?

Does New Mexico have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or drugs? Not while consuming alcohol or while impaired by the use of alcohol, controlled substances, or over-the-counter or prescribed medications.

As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgement, slow your reaction times or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.


Handgun Purchase & Possession

PURCHASE PERMITS?

Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in New Mexico? No. A permit is not required to purchase a handgun in New Mexico.

BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? EXCEPTIONS?

Are background checks required for private gun sales in New Mexico? Are there exceptions? Yes. As of July 1, 2019, private sales have to be administered by a licensed federal firearms dealer who will run a background check. This requirement is subject to certain narrow exceptions, including sales between immediate family members. An immediate family member is defined as a spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, grandchild, great-grandchild, niece, nephew, first cousin, aunt or uncle.

NEW MEXICO LICENSE EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK?

Does my current New Mexico concealed carry license exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm? No.

HANDGUN REGISTRATION?

Do handguns need to be registered in New Mexico? No. Handguns do not need to be registered in New Mexico.

MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT?

What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in New Mexico? The minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in New Mexico is 19 years old.

POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A LICENSE?

Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a license? Yes. A concealed carry license is not required for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm to carry a handgun in the person’s residence or on real property belonging to him or her as owner, lessee, tenant or licensee.

WAITING PERIOD?

Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in New Mexico? Yes, as of May 15, 2024.


New Mexico Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States

Alaska

Arizona (at least 21 years old)

Arkansas (at least 21 years old)

Colorado

Delaware (at least 21 years old)

Florida (handguns only)

Idaho (at least 21 years old)

Kansas

Michigan

Mississippi (at least 21 years old)

Missouri (at least 21 years old)

Nebraska

Nevada (at least 21 years old)

North Carolina

North Dakota (Class 1 permits only)

Ohio

Oklahoma (at least 21 years old)

South Carolina

South Dakota (Enhanced permits only)

Tennessee (at least 21 years old)

Texas (at least 21 years old)

Virginia

West Virginia (at least 21 years old)

Wyoming (at least 21 years old)

New Mexico recognizes permits from states with reciprocity agreements. The minimum age is 21 years old. New Mexico residents must have a N.M. Concealed Handgun License (CHL) to carry in the state.


Other States’ Reciprocity With New Mexico

Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)

Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Delaware

Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Minnesota

Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Nevada

New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

North Carolina

North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Virginia

Wisconsin

Note: Firearms must be carried in accordance with the laws of the state you are visiting. Be sure to check the laws of the other state before traveling there with your firearms.


States That Have Restricted Reciprocity with New Mexico

Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Colorado (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old 18 for military)

Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)


Permitless Carry States

Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)

Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old 18 for military)

Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

*PC-18 = permitless carry if at least 18 years old

*PC-21 = permitless carry if at least 21 years old

Permitless carry includes constitutional carry states as well as states where an individual must meet certain qualifications, e.g., no DUIs in the last 10 years, in order to legally carry (Tennessee). Each state determines the requirements and any limitations on the carry of firearms. Check each state’s page for more information and any restrictions that may apply.


New Mexico Concealed Carry License Information

Concealed Carry License Information

Processing Time: 30 days

Valid For: 4 years, but license holders must complete a 2-hour refresher firearms training course 2 years after the issuance of an original or renewed license. Licenses for members of the military, LEOs and RLEOs are valid for 5 years.

Non-Resident Concealed Carry Licenses: New Mexico grants non-resident licenses only for members of the military permanently stationed in New Mexico and their dependents. Out-of-state permits can be transferred over to New Mexico licenses.

Name/Address Changes: You are required to notify the Department of this change within 30 days. Complete the Concealed Handgun License/Replacement Card Application and submit it to: NM Department of Public Safety SID/Concealed Carry Unit 6301 Indian School Rd. NE Suite 310 Albuquerque, NM 87110

Residency Changes: Moving to New Mexico and interested in applying for a resident license? New Mexico issues licenses to residents and members of the military permanently stationed in New Mexico and their dependents only. You can apply for your license once you establish your residence. In addition, out-of-state permits can be transferred over to New Mexico licenses. Moving from New Mexico and have a New Mexico resident license? Does that license transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your New Mexico license remains valid? If a person with a New Mexico concealed handgun license establishes residency in another state, the license expires upon the establishment of residence in the other state.

Fees: Initial License $100 ($56 application fee $44 Fingerprint fee) Renewals $75 No charge for members of the military ($12 fingerprint fee)

Application: Link to application (As of Jan. 9, 2023, the application can now be completed online)

Lost/Stolen Licenses: If a concealed handgun license is lost, stolen or destroyed, the license is invalid and the licensee may obtain a duplicate license by furnishing the department a notarized statement that the original license was lost, stolen or destroyed and paying a reasonable fee. If the license is lost or stolen, the licensee shall file a police report with a local law enforcement agency and include the police case number in the notarized statement. Complete the Concealed Handgun License/Replacement Card Application and submit it within 10 Days to: NM Department of Public Safety SID/Concealed Carry Unit 6301 Indian School Rd. NE Suite 310 Albuquerque, NM 87110

Requirements: An applicant must:

  • Be at least 21 years old;
  • Be a citizen of the United States or a Permanent Resident Alien (although not reflected in state statutes, we have been informed by Permanent Resident Aliens that they were able to obtain their New Mexico Concealed Handgun License);
  • Complete a firearms training course (military service person’s discharged from military service within 20 years are exempt);
  • Be a resident of New Mexico or a member of the armed forces whose permanent duty station is located in New Mexico;
  • Not be a fugitive from justice;
  • Not have been convicted of, or under indictment for, a felony;
  • Not have been adjudicated mentally incompetent or committed to a mental institution;
  • Not be addicted to alcohol or controlled substances;
  • Satisfactorily complete a firearms training course;
  • Not have:
  • Received a conditional discharge, a diversion or a deferment, or been convicted of, pled guilty to or entered a plea of nolo contendere to a misdemeanor offense involving a crime of violence within the 10-year period preceding application;
  • Been convicted of a misdemeanor offense involving driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs within 5 years immediately preceding the application for a concealed handgun license;
  • Been convicted within the 10-year period preceding application of a misdemeanor offense involving the possession or abuse of a controlled substance; or
  • Been convicted of a misdemeanor offense involving assault, battery or battery against a household member;
  • Meet federal law requirements. *Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of New Mexico.

New Mexico Concealed Carry License Application Process

Concealed Carry License Application Steps

Step 1: Complete a firearm training course if required.

Step 2: Submit fingerprints.

  • As of May 2023, the New Mexico Department of Public Safety has transitioned to a new fingerprint supported background check provider, IDEMIA.
  • The New Mexico Applicant Fingerprint Processing (NMAPS) is the applicant background check solution that is totally electronic and provides New Mexico residents the means to complete their required federal and state background checks quickly and conveniently.
  • NMDPS offers manual fingerprinting services at NMDPS Headquarters:
  • Fingerprint hours: Monday — Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM
  • 4491 Cerrillos Rd., Santa Fe, NM 87507
  • (505) 827–9181
  • Fees: $9.00 for the first two cards and $2.50 for each additional card

Step 3: Download the application. (As of Jan. 9, 2023, the application can now be completed online.)

Step 4: Complete the application and gather the following documents:

  • Certified original copy of your birth certificate issued by vital statistics in the state in which you were born (no photocopies);
  • Copy of certificate of completion of firearms training;
  • Copy of New Mexico driver’s license or identification card; and
  • Release forms and any other supporting documentation.

Step 5: Send your application and supporting documents to: NM Department of Public Safety SID/Concealed Carry Unit 6301 Indian School Road NE, Suite 310 Albuquerque, NM 87110

Step 6: You will be notified if your application has been approved.

Additional Information: A CHL identifies the category and caliber of concealed handgun that may be carried by the licensee. If a licensee wishes to add another category (revolver/automatic) or additional higher calibers of handguns to his or her license, the licensee shall file with the department an application for a renewed license. The licensee shall also submit a certified copy of a certificate of completion from an approved instructor stating that the licensee has demonstrated competency on a firing range for each additional category and caliber of handgun, his current license, and a $5.00 processing fee. The licensee need not retake the classroom portion of the firearms training course. The department shall issue a renewed license within 10 days of receipt of the application. The renewed license shall expire on the same date as the original license would have expired.


Firearms Training Requirements in New Mexico

New Mexico Concealed Handgun License Training Requirements

New Mexico mandates that applicants for concealed handgun licenses must satisfactorily complete an approved firearms training course tailored to the category and largest caliber of handgun they intend to carry. However, military service personnel discharged within 20 years of applying for a license or renewal are exempt from this requirement, including the need for a refresher firearms training course.

The New Mexico Department of Public Safety (DPS) establishes and publishes minimum standards for approved training courses. These courses must encompass classroom instruction, range practice, and a practical demonstration by the applicant using at least a .32 caliber handgun. Key elements of the training include:

  • Safe handling and proficiency with single- and double-action revolvers and semi-automatic handguns
  • Secure storage practices and child safety measures
  • Fundamentals of safe handgun shooting
  • Live shooting on a designated firing range
  • Techniques for maintaining and enhancing handgun skills
  • Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws governing handgun purchase, ownership, transportation, use, and possession
  • Strategies for preventing criminal attacks and managing violent encounters
  • Methods for non-violent conflict resolution

Approved training courses are those endorsed or sponsored by federal or state law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, firearms training schools, or nationally recognized organizations sanctioned by the DPS for providing firearms training. Each instructor of an approved course must annually submit a course description and certification proof to the DPS.

Refresher Training Requirements

Licensees must undergo refresher training at regular intervals:

  • A 2-hour refresher firearms training course is mandatory two years after receiving an original or renewed license. This course must be approved by the department and completed between 22 to 26 months after the license issuance. A certificate of completion must be submitted to the department within 30 days of finishing the course.
  • For license renewals, a 4-hour refresher firearms training course approved by the department is required.

These training requirements ensure that license holders maintain proficiency and stay informed about laws and techniques essential for responsible handgun use and safety.


New Mexico Concealed Carry License Renewal Process

Renewing your concealed handgun license in New Mexico involves several straightforward steps to ensure compliance and continuation of your license.

Step 1: Check Eligibility Renewals are the responsibility of the licensee. You can renew your handgun license up to 60 days before or 60 days after its expiry date. If your license has expired, you cannot legally carry a concealed handgun until it is renewed.

Step 2: Complete Required Training Attend a class with a certified Concealed Carry Weapons (CCW) instructor. This includes both classroom instruction and range qualification to demonstrate proficiency.

Step 3: Fill Out the Application Download the application form from the New Mexico Department of Public Safety (DPS) website. As of Jan. 9, 2023, the application can also be completed online.

Step 4: Gather Required Documents Complete the application and prepare the following documents:

  • Photocopy of your New Mexico Driver’s License or Identification Card
  • Certificate of Completion of Firearms Training
  • Electronic fingerprints or two fingerprint cards, if not previously submitted

Step 5: Submit Your Application Send your completed application and all supporting documents to: NM Department of Public Safety
SID/Concealed Carry Unit
6301 Indian School Road NE, Suite 310
Albuquerque, NM 87110

Step 6: Await Approval After submitting your application, you will be notified by the DPS regarding the status of your renewal application.

Following these steps ensures a smooth renewal process for your concealed handgun license in New Mexico, allowing you to continue carrying legally and responsibly.


New Mexico Location Restrictions

Where Can’t I Carry a Concealed Firearm in New Mexico?

Places where concealed carry is prohibited even with a permit/license include:

  • Public schools, colleges, and universities (except in a private vehicle if older than 19) [N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30–7–2.1(A) and N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30–7–2.4(A)]
  • Public school buses [N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30–7–2.1(B)]
  • Establishments licensed to dispense alcoholic beverages other than beer or wine [N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30–7–3(A)]
  • Anywhere while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including certain prescription or over-the-counter medications [N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30–7–4(A)(2)]
  • New Mexico state Capitol building (as of December 6, 2021)
  • Albuquerque City parks and recreation facilities [City of Albuquerque Park Ordinance § 10–1–1–7]
  • Designated child-detention or correctional facilities [N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30–22–14(B)]
  • Correctional facilities, jails [N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30–22–14]
  • Any state, county, municipal, or tribal court [N.M. Stat. Ann. § 29–19–11]
  • State wildlife management areas/game refuges [N.M. Stat. Ann. § 17–2–12]
  • Tribal land [N.M. Stat. Ann. § 29–19–10]
  • Public buses [N.M. Stat. Ann. § 30–7–13]
  • Private property where the owner has posted signs indicating that you may not carry, or if the owner explicitly tells you that you cannot carry [N.M. Code R. §§ 10.8.2.16(F)]
  • Within 100 feet of any polling places, counting places, or drop boxes beginning May 15th, 2024, excluding those with concealed carry permits
  • Airport security zones [49 CFR §§ 1540.111 & 1540.5]
  • Any place where carrying firearms is prohibited by federal or state law or regulation

Where Can I Carry a Concealed Firearm in New Mexico?

Places where concealed carry is permitted include:

  • Carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol? Yes, but limited to restaurants licensed to sell only beer and wine, unless posted. Carry is not permitted in bars or restaurants that serve hard liquor.
  • Carry in my vehicle without a permit/license? Yes.
  • Carry in roadside rest areas? Yes.
  • Carry in state parks and state/national forests? Yes, with a CHL.
  • Carry in establishments that sell alcoholic beverages for off-site consumption (grocery stores, liquor stores, convenience stores)? Yes, with a CHL.
  • Carry in places of worship? There is no state statute prohibiting concealed carry in places of worship. However, since places of worship are private property, they may post signs prohibiting firearms.

FAQ: New Mexico Concealed Carry Questions

Can I Wear a COVID-19 Protective Mask While Carrying Concealed?

Yes, you can legally wear a COVID-19 protective mask while carrying concealed in New Mexico. There are no specific statutes in New Mexico that prohibit wearing a mask while legally carrying a concealed firearm. However, two state laws address concealing one’s identity with intent to commit illegal acts or to intimidate, but they do not prohibit wearing a mask while carrying concealed.

Can I Carry Concealed While Gun Hunting in New Mexico?

Yes, you can carry concealed while shotgun or rifle hunting in New Mexico if you have a New Mexico Concealed Handgun License or a permit from a state that New Mexico honors. However, the handgun cannot be used in the harvest of any animal, including as a “coup de grace,” unless a handgun is a legal weapon type for that specific hunt.

Can I Carry Concealed While Bow Hunting in New Mexico?

Yes, you can carry concealed while bow hunting in New Mexico. It is legal for anyone to possess a handgun for self-defense during any bow, muzzleloader, or rifle hunt in NM. Open carry is allowed for anyone at least 21 years old who is not prohibited from possessing a firearm. A concealed carry license is required for carrying concealed. Similar to gun hunting, the handgun cannot be used in the harvest of any animal unless a handgun is a legal weapon type for that hunt.

Is There a Hunter Harassment Law in New Mexico?

Yes, there is a Hunter Harassment Law in New Mexico. It prohibits interference with another person who is lawfully hunting, trapping, or fishing in an area where those activities are permitted. Interference includes actions that disrupt or obstruct hunting activities.

What Are the Knife Laws in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, you may carry any legal knife openly on your own property or in your vehicle. However, it is illegal to own or carry switchblades, balisongs, or butterfly knives. Additionally, it is illegal to conceal deadly weapons such as dirks, poniards, daggers, bowie knives, switchblades, butterfly knives, butcher knives, or any knife that can cause dangerous wounds outside of one’s residence or real property. Deadly weapons are not permitted on school grounds or public buses.

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