Colorado Firearm Q&A: Can I Carry a Loaded Handgun in My Vehicle in Colorado?

Short Answer: Yes. Colorado law generally allows a person who may lawfully possess a handgun to carry a loaded handgun in a private motor vehicle for lawful protection of themselves or another person while traveling.

The Details

Colorado law treats a privately owned vehicle differently than many people assume. Unlike carrying a concealed handgun on your person in public, carrying a loaded handgun inside your own vehicle is generally lawful, even if you do not have a Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit.

The handgun may be loaded and readily accessible while you are traveling. However, you must still be legally allowed to possess a firearm. Individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law cannot rely on this exception.

It is also important to remember that this rule applies to handguns. Different laws may apply to rifles, shotguns, or other firearms depending on the circumstances.

A Few Important Things to Remember

Just because you may legally have a loaded handgun in your vehicle does not mean you can carry it everywhere after you step out of the vehicle.

If you leave your vehicle with the handgun concealed on your person, Colorado’s concealed carry laws apply. Certain locations may also prohibit firearms regardless of whether you have a permit.

In addition, always secure your firearm whenever you leave it unattended inside a vehicle. Vehicle burglaries are one of the most common ways firearms are stolen. You must lock your gun properly if left unattended.

Practical Advice

Even though a permit is not generally required to have a loaded handgun in your vehicle, responsible gun owners should still:

Use a quality holster that completely covers the trigger.
Avoid handling the firearm unnecessarily while inside the vehicle.
Secure the firearm if it will be left unattended.
Know the laws that apply when entering schools, government buildings, or other prohibited locations.
Obtain professional training so you understand not only what the law allows, but also when the use of deadly force may or may not be legally justified.

Related Resources

Looking for a safe place to practice? Visit our Places to Shoot directory.
Looking for a local firearm dealer or FFL? Browse our Gun Stores & FFLs listings.
Interested in professional firearms training? Visit Have Gun Will Train Colorado for concealed carry classes, handgun fundamentals, and renewal training.

This article provides general information about Colorado firearm laws and is not legal advice. Laws change, and individual situations can produce different legal outcomes. If you have questions about your specific circumstances, consult a qualified attorney or the appropriate law enforcement agency.