Quick Answer
In New Hampshire, any adult 18 or older who is not prohibited from owning a firearm can carry a loaded handgun in their motor vehicle without a license. It can be carried openly on the seat, concealed in a glovebox, or worn on the body.
Handguns vs. Long Guns
New Hampshire has highly permissive laws for self-defense handguns, but strictly regulates rifles and shotguns due to its strong hunting and anti-poaching culture.
Permitless Handguns
Vehicle Exception
Since 2017, anyone who can legally own a firearm can carry a loaded handgun concealed in their vehicle. You do not need a Pistol/Revolver License (PRL) to keep a loaded gun in your center console.
RSA 207:7
The Long Gun Ban
It is strictly illegal to carry a loaded rifle, loaded shotgun, or cocked crossbow in a motor vehicle. A long gun is considered loaded if there is a cartridge in the chamber OR a loaded magazine attached to the gun.
The 2025 Employer Parking Lot Protections
Thanks to the passage of HB 1336, New Hampshire dramatically strengthened commuter rights. Employers receiving public funds are strictly prohibited from banning employees from storing firearms in their vehicles. More importantly, all employers (public and private) are legally barred from requiring employees to disclose whether they keep a firearm in their vehicle. If you lock your gun securely out of sight, your employer has no legal mechanism to investigate or fire you for it.
New Hampshire Commuter & Workplace Safes
To utilize your statutory protections under HB 1336, your employer cannot know you have a firearm. Your "commuter gun" must be locked and perfectly hidden. A tethered vehicle safe is the most secure way to stay compliant and protect against theft.
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 your vehicle is parked at work.
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
New Hampshire is a "No Duty to Inform" state. There is no statutory requirement to proactively volunteer that you have a loaded firearm in the vehicle when you are pulled over. However, if a police officer explicitly asks if there are weapons in the vehicle, lying can lead to severe obstruction charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can out-of-state visitors carry a loaded gun in their car in New Hampshire?
Yes. New Hampshire's permitless vehicle carry laws apply to non-residents as well. Any visitor who is 18 or older and legally eligible to possess a firearm can carry a loaded handgun in their vehicle while traveling through the state.