Quick Answer
Yes. Indiana is a Permitless Carry state. Any person 18 or older who is legally eligible to possess a firearm can carry a loaded handgun, rifle, or shotgun in their motor vehicle without a license. It can be carried concealed (such as in a glovebox or under a seat) or in plain view on the passenger seat.
The Impact of Permitless Carry
In July 2022, Indiana enacted HEA 1296, completely eliminating the requirement for a License to Carry a Handgun (LTCH) for lawful vehicle transport.
IC 35-47-2-1.5
Permitless Carry Exemption
Establishes that any individual not expressly prohibited under state or federal law may carry a handgun without being licensed. You do not have to be a resident of Indiana to utilize this vehicle exemption.
IC 34-28-7
Employer Parking Lot Law
Prohibits public and private employers from adopting rules that ban employees from keeping firearms in their vehicles, provided the firearm is locked out of sight in the trunk, glove compartment, or locked vehicle.
The School Parking Lot Trap
Taking a firearm onto school property in Indiana is normally a Level 6 felony. However, IC 35-47-9-2 creates a specific exception for picking up or dropping off students. The catch? The firearm must be out of plain sight and the vehicle must be locked. If you pull into a school parking lot with your handgun sitting openly on your passenger seat, you are committing a Class A misdemeanor.
Indiana Compliance & Commuter Safes
To maintain your legal protections under Indiana's School Zone exceptions (IC 35-47-9-2) and Employer Parking Lot protections (IC 34-28-7), your firearm must be locked and completely out of sight. A tethered vehicle safe is the smartest way to guarantee statutory compliance.
ONNAIS Alloy SE
A modern smart-safe with USB-C charging, 4-way access, and a heavy-duty steel cable to tether directly to your car seat frame.
ONNAIS Iron Pro
Solid steel construction and an anti-pry lid ensure your firearm stays secure while parked in your employer's parking lot.
ONNAIS Iron SE
Delivers premium biometric security, keypad backup, and a heavy-duty tethering cable at a highly accessible price point.
Duty to Inform Law Enforcement
Indiana is a "No Duty to Inform" state. There is no statutory requirement for you to proactively inform law enforcement that you have a loaded firearm in the vehicle when you are pulled over for a traffic stop. However, if an officer asks if there are weapons in the vehicle, lying can lead to secondary legal issues, so it is always advised to answer truthfully if questioned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are non-residents covered by Indiana permitless carry in a vehicle?
Yes. The law (IC 35-47-2-1.5) does not distinguish between residents and non-residents. As long as you are 18 or older and not a prohibited person under state or federal law, you may carry a loaded firearm in your vehicle while traveling through Indiana.
Can I keep a loaded rifle or shotgun in my car in Indiana?
Yes. Indiana law does not restrict the loaded transport of long guns in motor vehicles for eligible adults.