Is it Legal to Transport My Gun in My Car in North Carolina?

Gun laws can be quite complex, making it crucial to understand where and when you can legally possess a firearm to avoid legal issues. Many residents of North Carolina might wonder if they are allowed to keep a gun in their car with the new open carry regulations, especially since nearly 50% of the population owns a firearm. While individuals have the right to carry, the state imposes specific restrictions that residents must adhere to, not only for legality but also for the safety of other citizens and law enforcement. Discover more about the guidelines for transporting firearms in vehicles in North Carolina.

What Are Open Carry and Concealed Carry?

When carrying a firearm in a vehicle, it's important to understand the legalities of carrying a concealed weapon versus an openly carried one. In North Carolina, which is a “shall-issue” state, you need a concealed handgun permit issued by the state to carry concealed. To obtain this permit, you must be at least 21 years old and have completed an approved firearms training course. The interpretation of what constitutes “concealed” can vary in North Carolina courts; for instance, some cases have determined that a handgun protruding from a pocket qualifies as concealed, while others have ruled that a weapon is not considered concealed if it is partially visible or easily identifiable as a firearm.

In North Carolina, individuals aged 18 and over can openly carry a firearm, provided they are legally allowed to own one and do not have felony convictions. “Openly” carrying means the firearm is visibly displayed, whether holstered or slung, as long as it is plainly visible.

However, there are restrictions on openly carrying a firearm. You are prohibited from doing so on school grounds, State Capitol grounds, and other specific locations. Additionally, certain counties may impose regulations on open carry in public areas.

What is the Impact of Open Carry on My Vehicle?

North Carolina has specific laws regarding the transportation of firearms. These regulations focus on how not to transport a weapon rather than specifying its exact placement. If you're traveling without a concealed carry permit, the firearm must be openly displayed and easily visible. However, you are allowed to store the weapon in the trunk, as state law allows for concealment as long as it is not accessible to anyone in the vehicle. For those with a concealed carry permit, the firearm can be concealed, but it must not be accessible to anyone inside the car. This means it cannot be placed under the front seats, in the center console, or in an unlocked glove compartment.

Is It Allowed to Store My Gun in My Trunk?

You can legally drive with a gun in your car's trunk, regardless of whether you hold a concealed weapon permit. Although the firearm is concealed, it must be locked and inaccessible to anyone inside the vehicle. If you're in a vehicle that provides access to the trunk, such as an SUV or van, the weapon must be stored securely in a container.

Is It Allowed to Keep My Gun in the Glove Compartment?

You can keep your weapon in your glove compartment as long as it's locked. However, it may not be the best idea to store your firearm alongside important documents. If you get pulled over by the police and need to present your insurance and registration, the officer might feel uneasy about the gun being there, potentially leading to more complications than you anticipate.

What Are the Consequences of Hiding a Weapon in a Vehicle?

According to North Carolina law, carrying a concealed weapon illegally outside your own property can result in penalties if you're charged and convicted. These penalties do not apply to individuals with a concealed weapons permit. 

For a first offense, you may face a Class 2 misdemeanor charge, which can lead to a maximum sentence of 60 days in jail and a fine. Additionally, if you're a first-time offender with no previous convictions, you might receive supervised probation or a suspended sentence. 

Subsequent offenses may be charged as a Class H Felony, potentially resulting in 4 to 39 months of imprisonment, depending on your criminal history.

What Defenses Exist for Having a Concealed Weapon in a Vehicle?

To combat any concealed weapons charges, it's crucial to seek assistance from a North Carolina criminal defense attorney. The prosecution has the burden of proving your guilt beyond a "reasonable" doubt, and your attorney can help you develop a defense strategy that may lead to reduced or dropped charges. Even if a conviction seems to carry a minimal penalty, the cumulative effects can significantly impact your life. Along with potential imprisonment, you may face social stigma, loss of your right to possess a firearm, and other consequences.

Possible defenses for having a weapon in your vehicle include:

• Possessing a Concealed Handgun Permit
• The weapon was not concealed
• You were unaware of the weapon's presence
• There were flaws in the investigation

Your attorney can examine your situation and gather crucial evidence to safeguard your rights and freedom.

Contact Our North Carolina Weapons Charge Attorneys for Assistance Today

If you find yourself accused of unlawfully carrying a firearm in your vehicle, it’s crucial to seek help from a legal team well-versed in North Carolina’s weapon laws. Turn to CM-Law, Criminal Defense Attorneys. We will conduct a comprehensive review of your case and provide an objective assessment of the best steps to take. Every case is unique, and we are prepared to identify the factors that may help you mitigate or dismiss charges.

‍