Mississippi Firearms Permit FAQs

How can I transport my handgun thru Mississippi while on vacation or just passing thru?

Mississippi Law Sec. 97-37-1 (2) states “It shall not be a violation of this section for any person over the age of eighteen (18) to carry a firearm or deadly weapon concealed in whole or in part within the confines of his own home or his place of business, or any real property associated with his home or business or within any motor vehicle”.

If you will be traveling on the Natchez Trace Federal Parkway, please contact them directly at (662)842-1572 for their rules & regulation on transporting your firearm.

With what other states does Mississippi have reciprocity? (Whose permits do we honor, who honors ours?)

Mississippi recognizes valid, unrevoked and unexpired license to carry stun guns, concealed pistols, or revolvers issued in other states.  Also, the Department of Public Safety is authorized to enter into reciprocal agreements with other states if those states require a written agreement for reciprocity.  Mississippi has written reciprocity agreements with the following states:  Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, North Carolina, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, Virginia, West Virginia, Wyoming.

How do I get a permit?

First time applications are now available at your nearest Highway Patrol Substation. There are substations located in Jackson, Greenwood, Batesville, New Albany, Starkville, Meridian, Hattiesburg, Biloxi, and Brookhaven. Be sure to check “Firearm Permit Locations” for date & time of processing.

MISSISSIPPI DOES NOT HAVE NON-RESIDENT PERMITS. Mississippi Law 45-9-101 (2) (a) states “The Department of Public Safety shall issue a license if the applicant: is a resident of the state and has been a resident for twelve (12) months or longer immediately preceding the filing of the application”.


NOTE: RENEWAL packets will continue to be mailed 90 days prior to expiration as stated in the statute. REMEMBER TO KEEP YOUR ADDRESS CURRENT. Please contact us regarding lost, misplaced or undelivered renewal packets.


How much does it cost to get an Individual Firearm Permit?

The fee for a first time Individual Firearm Permit is $112.00. The permit is valid for five (5) years. About 90 days prior to the permit’s expiration date, a renewal package is sent to the permit holder. The renewal fee is $72.00. There is a $15 late fee for expired permits. A permit expired for 6 months or more is deemed permanently expired and the permit holder must reapply.

How much does it cost to get a Security Guard Permit?

The fee for a Security Guard Permit is $132.00. The permit is valid for four (4) years.

Do I have to be re-fingerprinted every time I renew my permit?

No. Fingerprints will be done every other five year renewal. We know your prints do not change, but your eligibility to be a permit holder can. Our laws require a background check thru the FBI. The FBI will not check a set of fingerprints that are over six (6) months old.

How long does it take to get permit after I apply?

Mississippi Law 45-9-101 (6) © “states the Department of Public Safety shall, within forty five (45) days after the date of receipt of the items listed in subsection (5) of this section:

       1. Issue the license: or
       2. Deny the application based solely on the ground that the applicant fails to meet the requirements.

What do I do if my address changes?

Within thirty (30) days after the changing of a permanent address, you must notify the Department of Public Safety in writing. The change of address should be mailed to the Firearm Permit Unit, P.O. Box 958, Jackson, MS 39205-0958. Be sure to include in your correspondence your name, permit number, old and new addresses, and a contact number in case of questions.

What do I do if my permit is lost or destroyed?

Within thirty (30) days after having a permit lost or destroyed, you must notify the Department of Public Safety (DPS) in writing. A notarized statement to DPS that the permit has been lost or destroyed is required. If your permit is lost or destroyed, you may obtain a duplicate for $15. Duplicates are done at the Firearm Permit Unit at DPS headquarters and at the substations according to their published schedule. If you need further explanation, you can contact your nearest substation or the Firearm Permit Unit at DPS headquarters.

How long is the enhanced carry endorsement valid?

Enhanced carry endorsements are valid indefinitely. The permit itself will still have to be renewed every 5 years.

VIA.