The Second Amendment grants Americans the right to bear arms. That said, many laws surround firearms possession. Law-abiding citizens secure concealed carry licenses before heading into public toting a piece.
Getting caught packing heat without a permit can result in legal charges. Missouri has specific eligibility terms that concealed carry applicants must understand.
Residency and age
Only United States citizens and permanent residents may seek a concealed carry license. Most gun enthusiasts have to be 19 years old to get approval. For military members, though, the bar is just 18.
Safety knowledge
Accompanying every application must be an affidavit. This document should state that the seeker will follow concealed carry training guidelines. There is no mandate to take a concealed carry training course in Missouri. That said, there are good reasons for doing so. In classes, gun owners learn more about storage techniques and justifiable defense situations. These brush-ups are often helpful.
Disqualifying factors
Applicants must have clean records. Any person seeking a permit must not have a criminal past. Violent crimes are especially forbidden. A conviction for operating a motor vehicle under the influence will also rule one out.
A dishonorable discharge from any branch of the military is another invalidating trigger. Individuals must be mentally competent. Concealed carry candidates cannot show signs they are a danger to themselves.
Violating the concealed carry law in Missouri results in fines and years behind bars. Obtaining the right to carry a gun in public goes best when one understands the requirements. Learn them before trying to get permission.