Quick Answer
In Vermont, any adult who is legally allowed to possess a firearm can carry a loaded handgun in their motor vehicle without a license. It can be carried openly on the passenger seat, concealed in a glovebox, or worn on the body. However, long guns (rifles and shotguns) must remain completely unloaded in the chamber while in a vehicle.
The "Vermont Carry" Standard
Vermont is the originator of Constitutional Carry. Unlike other states that repealed permit laws recently, Vermont has allowed permitless carry for its entire history based on its state constitution.
No Permit Required
Vehicle Exception
Because Vermont has never issued a carry permit, there is no statutory prohibition against keeping a loaded, concealed handgun in a motor vehicle for self-defense.
10 V.S.A. § 4705
The Long Gun Ban
It is illegal to transport a loaded rifle or shotgun in a vehicle on a public highway. The law defines "loaded" as having a shell or cartridge in the chamber.
The Federal School Zone Trap
Because Vermont does not issue Concealed Carry Permits at all, no resident of Vermont has an exemption to the Federal Gun-Free School Zones Act. If you drive within 1,000 feet of a K-12 school in Vermont with a loaded, accessible handgun in your car, you are technically committing a federal felony. The firearm must be unloaded and locked in a container before entering the zone.
Vermont School Zone & Commuter Safes
Because Vermont issues no carry permits, drivers have zero protection against federal school zone laws. A tethered vehicle safe allows you to legally secure and unload your firearm when dropping kids off at school or parking in restricted areas.
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.
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ONNAIS Iron Pro
Solid steel construction and an anti-pry lid ensure your firearm stays secure while your vehicle is parked unattended.
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ONNAIS Iron SE
Delivers premium biometric security, keypad backup, and a heavy-duty tethering cable at a highly accessible price point.
Check PriceDuty to Inform Law Enforcement
Vermont is a "No Duty to Inform" state. There is no law requiring you to proactively volunteer that you have a loaded firearm in the vehicle when you are pulled over for a traffic stop. However, if a police officer explicitly asks if there are weapons in the vehicle, lying can lead to secondary obstruction charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can out-of-state visitors carry a loaded gun in their car in Vermont?
Yes. Vermont's permitless vehicle carry laws apply to non-residents as well. Any visitor who is legally eligible to possess a firearm can carry a loaded handgun in their vehicle while traveling through the state.