Minnesota does not require general firearm registration, so getting caught with an unregistered gun in our state is not illegal. However, Minnesota does require a permit to carry a gun in public. A permit is also required to purchase or transfer a pistol or a semi-automatic assault weapon. Getting caught with a handgun outside your private property without the proper permit can result in gross misdemeanor charges for first offenses and felony charges for repeat offenses.
If you’ve been arrested or charged with a weapons offense, contact Keller Criminal Defense Attorneys in Minneapolis right away. Call 952-913-1421 for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand what happens if you’re caught with an unregistered gun and how to fight the charges.
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Is It Illegal to Have an Unregistered Firearm in Minnesota?
Minnesota law does not require you to register your firearm. In fact, the state has no official gun registration system. However, it’s illegal to carry a handgun in public without a valid permit to carry, even if you legally purchased the firearm.
What Makes It a Crime?
- Carrying a handgun in public without a permit is a gross misdemeanor in Minnesota.
- If you have a prior conviction for the same offense, the charge escalates to a felony.
- If you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol while carrying—even with a permit—you could face additional charges.
What Happens When You’re Caught Carrying a Gun Without a Permit?
Getting caught carrying a handgun in public without a valid permit in Minnesota results in serious criminal charges. You’ll face a gross misdemeanor charge for a first offense, which carries penalties of up to 364 days in jail and fines up to $3,000. If you have a prior conviction for the same offense, the charge escalates to a felony, with potential prison time of over one year and significantly higher fines.
Law enforcement may arrest you and take you into custody for processing, which includes fingerprinting, photographing, and holding you until your court appearance. During arraignment, the judge will formally inform you of the charges and determine bail or conditions and whether you’ll be released pending trial.
The long-term consequences extend far beyond the immediate penalties. A gross misdemeanor or felony conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can severely impact your employment opportunities, housing applications, professional licensing, and ability to legally own firearms in the future. Many employers conduct background checks, and a weapons-related conviction often disqualifies candidates from jobs in security, education, healthcare, and other fields requiring public trust.
Additionally, if you’re carrying while under the influence of alcohol or drugs—even with a valid permit—you’ll face additional charges that compound the penalties and long-term consequences.
How to Avoid These Charges: Get a Permit to Carry
You can avoid criminal charges by complying with gun carry laws and obtaining a legal permit. Minnesota operates under a “shall-issue” system, meaning if you meet the legal criteria, the state must issue you a permit.
Requirements to Get a Permit:
- Be 21 or older
- Complete handgun safety training from a certified instructor
- Submit a permit application through your local sheriff’s office
- Not be prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law
Permits are valid for five years. Emergency permits, issued when there’s an immediate threat to your safety, are valid for 30 days.
Do You Need to Register Your Gun in Minnesota?
No—Minnesota doesn’t have a firearm registration law. But depending on your situation, you may still need to provide documentation when applying for a permit or transferring ownership. Here’s what you need to know if you’re looking to register a firearm in a different state or want to be prepared:
How to Register a Firearm (In States That Require It)
If you move to or purchase a gun in a state that does require registration:
- Check your state’s firearm laws – Visit your state’s official firearm division or attorney general’s website.
- Contact local law enforcement – Many police departments provide forms or assistance.
- Complete the firearm registration form – You’ll likely need to provide:
- Personal identification
- Proof of address
- Gun details (make, model, serial number)
- Personal identification
- Pay any applicable fees – Some states require fingerprinting or background checks.
Always bring your unloaded firearm and supporting documents to the registration office, especially if inspection is part of the process.
Where Can You Carry a Gun Without a Permit in Minnesota?
There are some exceptions to Minnesota’s carry laws. You don’t need a permit to:
- Keep or carry a firearm in your own home, place of business, or private property.
- Transport a handgun from the place of purchase to your home/business.
- Bring a gun to and from a repair shop or for target shooting/hunting in the woods.
Even with a permit, it’s illegal to carry a gun while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or controlled substances.
Can You Claim Self-Defense?
Minnesota law supports limited “castle doctrine” principles. This means you may be justified in using deadly force if someone unlawfully enters your home and threatens your life or the life of someone in your household.
But that’s not a free pass. If you’re caught with an unregistered or unlawfully carried gun during a self-defense incident, prosecutors could still file weapons charges.
Facing Weapons Charges? Here’s Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney
Weapons charges are nothing to take lightly. A conviction can affect your job, housing, and even your right to own firearms in the future.
A Minnesota criminal defense attorney can:
- Challenge the legality of the search or arrest
- Identify procedural errors in your case
- Negotiate for dismissal or reduced charges
- Defend you at trial if necessary
If you’ve been arrested, don’t try to talk your way out of it. Call Keller Criminal Defense Attorneys at 952-913-1421 or schedule a free consultation online. We’ll stand between you and the prosecution, and fight to keep your record clean.
