Weapons in CMVs - New York

New York has some of the most restrictive gun laws in the United States. A license is required to purchase, possess, or carry a handgun in the state. 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 New York Pistol License (NYPL) that specifically allows concealed carry (some NYPLs only allow for possession at a person’s home or place of business). This extends to private vehicles only for those with a valid concealed carry NYPL. Without the proper permit, gun owners should store weapons unloaded and in a locked trunk or container away from access when traveling through the state of New York.

Permits

Permits are available only to qualified New York residents. Permits are issued by county sheriffs’ departments. Applicants must complete a firearm safety training course and meet other requirements. Concealed carry permits must be renewed every three years (possession-only permits are renewed every five years). New York state does not recognize concealed carry permits from any other state. Statewide NYPLs are not valid in the five boroughs of New York City unless they are validated by the city.

Magazine capacity limits

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

Other weapons

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

Permitted non-lethal weapons include:

• Stun guns/tasers
• Pepper spray (18 and over; other restrictions apply)
• Less-lethal launchers (kinetic only – no pepper kits; local restrictions apply)

Duty to inform

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

Employee parking lots

This issue is not explicitly addressed in New York law.