Can I Carry a Gun in My Vehicle in Arizona?

Yes – you’re free to carry a gun on you or in your vehicle throughout the state, with some exceptions pertaining to age, location and background.

Arizona is relatively lenient regarding gun possession, with no magazine capacity limits, waiting times, stand your ground laws and open and constitutional carry laws. Being both an “open carry” and “constitutional carry” state means that residents and travelers over 21 can carry concealed weapons without a permit, including in their vehicle.

The answer is a little more complicated for legal gun owners over the age of 18 but under 21. If the gun is in plain sight, in a holster, in a case or in an allowed storage space (like your glove box) and out of reach of the vehicle’s occupants, it’s likely legal.

Adults over 18 who meet the necessary criteria are allowed to own firearms without any kind of license or permit, but they do require a permit to carry a concealed weapon on their person or in their vehicle – unless it’s properly stowed and out of reach. If you have questions about legally carrying a gun in your vehicle before the age of 21, consider reaching out to a criminal law attorney for clarification.

Does the Type of Gun Matter?

For the most part, the type of gun you have will not affect Arizona’s open or constitutional carry laws. As long as it’s legal to own in Arizona, you can carry it in your vehicle. The only exceptions are weapons prohibited by the National Firearms Act (NFA), like explosives, fully automatic weapons, silencers and sawed-off rifles, which are banned across the nation.

However, even if state laws work in the favor of gun owners, you can still get in trouble with federal laws if you’re not careful. For example, if you have a Title II weapon (e.g., fully automatic weapons or short-barreled rifles), the National Firearms Act (NFA) requires that you obtain a permit, the state’s open carry policies notwithstanding.

Who Isn’t Allowed to Carry a Gun in Arizona?

• Felons convicted in Arizona or any other state
• Those adjudicated mentally ill, incompetent or committed involuntarily to a mental institution
• Individuals with protective orders, such as a restraining order
• Those convicted of a domestic violence misdemeanor or felony
• Illegal drug users
• Undocumented immigrants
• Dishonorably discharged soldiers
• Those restricted by court order due to probation status or pretrial release conditions

Places Where It’s Illegal to Carry a Gun

• Federal buildings (post offices, banks and courthouses)
• Educational institutions (K-12 schools and college campuses)
• Private businesses or properties
• Public events (fairs or concerts)
• Bars and other alcohol-serving establishments
• Certain secure areas of airports
• Tribal lands with specific firearm restrictions
• Nuclear or hydroelectric power plants
• Polling locations

What to Do If a Police Officer Pulls You Over and You Carry a Gun

Keep Your Hands Visible: If a police car flashes its lights at you, pull over immediately to a safe location, put your hands on the steering wheel or dashboard and keep them there during the interaction.

Stay Calm and Cooperative: Be calm, polite and cooperative while you’re interacting with the officer and refrain from making any sudden movements.

Inform the Officer About the Firearm: Although Arizona doesn’t require you to disclose if you have a gun in your car, it is generally advised that you do so. Stating in a calm and respectful manner that there’s a firearm in the vehicle can keep you safe and help build trust with the officer. If the officer asks whether there are any firearms in the vehicle and you do not respond truthfully to the question, you may face additional criminal charges.

Follow the Officer's Instructions: Cooperate and adhere to the officer’s instructions, providing them with identification, vehicle registration and proof of insurance when asked.

Show Your Permit If You Have One: Readily provide your concealed carry permit with your identification if you’re 18 to 21 years old if necessary.

No Sudden Movements: Under no circumstances should you reach for your gun, identification or any item without expressly informing the officer beforehand and receiving their consent. This is essential to prevent the situation from escalating. 

Do Not Consent to a Search: You’re legally allowed to clearly and politely refuse a vehicle search. If you’re faced with a weapons charge due to an illegal search, Arizona board-certified criminal defense attorney Michael Alarid III is ready to provide you with skilled and persistent representation that will fight for your rights to be recognized.

We Are Ready to Defend You in Court

Phoenix criminal defense attorney Michael Alarid is dedicated to protecting the rights of his clients to legally possess firearms and will tirelessly pursue the best possible outcome for your case. Call (602) 818-3110 or visit us online to schedule a free consultation with a weapon crime defense attorney today.