Summary 

• Permit required? No for most concealed carry (permitless/constitutional carry),but a permit (or recognized out-of-state permit) matters for certain restricted government-building areas. 

• Minimum age:  18+ to obtain a Montana concealed weapon permit; permitless carry is generally treated as 18+ for eligible possessors.

• Duty to inform:No general statewide duty to proactively inform law enforcement (verify current local/agency guidance before travel).

• Where you can/can’t carry (general): Most public places unless prohibited; key problem areas include court-controlled spaces andrestricted government office areas, plus federal facilities in places like national parks (visitor centers, ranger stations).

• Alcohol + carry: Carrying concealed while under the influence is illegal, and certain alcohol-licensed “rooms” are specifically restricted under state law.

Montana is broadly apermitless (constitutional carry) state for concealed carry if you can legally possess a firearm under state and federal law. At the same time, Montana still issues concealed weapon permits,primarily for reciprocity/travel and for navigating certain restricted locations. Montana permits are issued locally by county sheriffs, and the statute uses “shall issue” language with specific disqualifiers, plus a limited discretionary denial standard in certain circumstances. 

Even with permitless carry, Montana law creates practical “gotchas” for residents and visitors. For example, Montana’s DOJ notes that carrying instate government offices/state buildings requires acurrent, valid Montana concealed weapon permit, and Montana statutes also restrict concealed carry in portions of buildings used for state/local government offices that are restricted unless you have a Montana permit or a recognized out-of-state permit. Court-controlled spaces are also called out as illegal absent a judge’s authorization.

Montana recognizes some out-of-state permits (subject to statutory conditions like carrying the permit + photo ID, and the issuing state requiring a background check). For day-to-day practicality, especially in vehicles, hotels  and shared spaces,prioritize secure storage (unloaded when appropriate, locked container/safe) and discreet handling. When transporting or staging gear (car, hotel room, shared cabin), a Faraday-protected SLNT bag can also help keep compatible electronics shielded and reduce digital exposure while you’re moving between spaces. 

Useful Links

• Montana Code Annotated – 45-8-321 Permit to carry concealed weapon

• Montana Code Annotated – 45-8-328 Prohibited place (restricted government office areas)

• Montana Code Annotated – 45-8-329 Out-of-state permits recognized

• NPS – Firearms in National Parks (federal facilities rule)