Quick Answer
In Rhode Island, you cannot carry a loaded or readily accessible handgun in your vehicle unless you possess a valid Rhode Island carry permit. Without a permit, the handgun must be completely unloaded, securely wrapped or locked in a container, and transported directly between exempt locations (like your home and a gunsmith).
The "Direct Route" Transport Trap
Rhode Island law mandates exactly how unpermitted residents must transport their firearms. A deviation as simple as stopping for groceries on the way to the firing range can result in a felony weapons charge.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-10
Unloaded and Cased
Without a permit, you may only transport a pistol or revolver if it is unloaded and securely wrapped or carried in locked luggage. The firearm cannot be easily accessible to the driver or passengers.
Strict Exemptions Only
No Deviations Allowed
You are only legally allowed to transport this unloaded, cased firearm from your home directly to a target range, a gunsmith, or an authorized hunting ground. Stopping for an extended errand invalidates the transport exemption.
The Non-Resident Transit Exemption
Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-8(a), there is a narrow exception for non-residents. If you hold a valid concealed carry permit from another state, you may legally transport a concealed handgun in your motor vehicle through Rhode Island. However, this strictly applies to continuous travel. If you intend to stay in Rhode Island, this exemption vanishes, and you revert to the strict unloaded-and-cased rules.
Rhode Island "Securely Wrapped" Compliance
Because Rhode Island strictly dictates that unpermitted firearms must be locked away, placing a handgun in an unlocked glovebox is a criminal offense. Avoid felony transport charges by securing your unloaded firearm in a tethered, hard-sided vehicle safe on your way to the range.
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Check PriceNo Duty to Inform Law Enforcement
Rhode Island is a "No Duty to Inform" state. There is no statutory requirement to immediately notify an officer that you have an unloaded, cased firearm in the vehicle when you are pulled over. However, if asked for documentation or if weapons are present, you must truthfully comply.