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Minnesota Transporting Firearms Laws (2026)
Conditional: With no Minnesota permit or recognized out-of-state permit, a handgun in a vehicle must be unloaded and fully enclosed in a closed, fastened case made for firearms.
With no Minnesota permit or recognized out-of-state permit, a handgun in a vehicle must be unloaded and fully enclosed in a closed, fastened case made for firearms. The handgun statute does not list a closed trunk by itself, so use the case even in the trunk. A permit holder may carry it in the vehicle under the permit.
General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.
Transporting Firearms in states bordering Minnesota
The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.
- IowaConditional
At 18 or older, you may carry or transport a handgun in a private vehicle without a permit, loaded or unloaded, openly or concealed, unless Iowa law bars you from carrying. …
Verified Oct 12, 2026 · Source: legis.iowa.gov · Full Iowa rule →
- North DakotaConditional
In North Dakota you may not keep or carry a loaded firearm in a motor vehicle unless an exception applies. A loaded handgun is allowed if you are 18 or older, not a prohibited person, and carry a valid driver's license or state ID, or if you hold a North Dakota license or a recognized out-of-state license. Otherwise, carry the handgun unloaded and in plain view or secured. Breaking the vehicle rule is an infraction.
Verified Oct 12, 2026 · Source: ndlegis.gov · Full North Dakota rule →
- South DakotaPermitted
No permit is needed to carry a pistol in a private vehicle in South Dakota, concealed or not, if you are 18 or older and may lawfully possess it. Residents and visitors are treated alike. On public elementary or secondary school premises, only someone holding a South Dakota concealed pistol permit may keep a pistol in a vehicle. Without one, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Verified Oct 12, 2026 · Source: sdlegislature.gov · Full South Dakota rule →
- WisconsinConditional
A handgun may be carried loaded and uncased in a vehicle without a license. It may not be hidden and within reach, which counts as carrying concealed (a Class A misdemeanor). A handgun in a glove box or on a seat can count as concealed. Without a license Wisconsin recognizes, keep it out of reach. A licensee, including a visitor with a recognized permit, may carry it concealed.
Verified Oct 12, 2026 · Source: wisdoj.gov · Full Wisconsin rule →
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