Maine is a constitutional carry state, which means law-abiding adults 21 years and older who can legally possess a firearm under federal and state law may carry a concealed handgun without obtaining a permit. This right extends to concealed carry in a private vehicle.
Permits
Permits are not required but may be useful for reciprocity with other states. The Maine State Police issue concealed weapons permits.
Other weapons
No weapons other than handguns may be concealed carried in Maine.
Permitted non-lethal weapons include:
- Stun guns/tasers (with restrictions)
- Pepper spray
- Tear gas
- Bear spray (legal for self-defense against wildlife)
- Bludgeons/batons
- Brass knuckles
- Less-lethal launchers
Duty to inform
Maine state law requires drivers to notify police of the presence of a concealed weapon during traffic stops or at weigh stations if they are carrying without a permit. With a permit, there is no duty to inform.
Employee parking lots
Employers may not prohibit employees who are legally allowed to possess a firearm from having a firearm in a private vehicle, as long as the vehicle is locked and the firearm is not visible.
