Weapons in CMVs - New Jersey

In New Jersey, concealed carry of a firearm is legal for adults aged 21 and older who are allowed under state and federal law to possess a firearm and who have a state concealed carry permit. This extends to private vehicles only for those with a valid permit. Even with a permit, unless the weapon is in the permit holder’s immediate possession or control (e.g., holstered), all weapons must be unloaded, not visible from outside the vehicle, and stored in a secure case, gun box, or locked trunk.

Permits

Permits may be issued to residents and non-residents. Permits are issued by municipal police departments or the New Jersey State Police, whichever provides police service to the applicant’s home address. New applicants must complete a Civilian Carry Assessment and Range Evaluation. Permits must be renewed every two years. New Jersey has limited reciprocity and does not recognize concealed carry permits from any other state. About half of other states will recognize New Jersey permits.

Magazine capacity limits

New Jersey law limits magazine capacity to no more than 10 rounds.

Other weapons

No weapons other than handguns may be concealed carried in New Jersey even with a permit.

Permitted non-lethal weapons include:

• Stun guns/tasers (18 and up)
• Pepper spray (some restrictions apply)
• Bear spray (legal for self-defense against wildlife only)
• Less-lethal launchers

Duty to inform

New Jersey state law requires drivers to notify police of the presence of a concealed weapon during traffic stops or at weigh stations.

Employee parking lots

This issue is not explicitly addressed in New Jersey law.