Is a Vermont Non-Resident Permit Valid in Montana?

Why

• Vermont does not issue carry permits at all (vermont issues no carry permits to anyone, resident or non-resident — there is no permit system at all. vermont residents who need a permit recognized elsewhere must obtain a non-resident permit from another state that issues them) — there is no Vermont permit to recognize.

MCA 45-8-329 recognizes another state's permit if that state requires a criminal-records background check before issuance and the holder carries the permit plus photo ID; it imposes no issuing-state residency condition. The AG list (last updated Oct 2024) excludes Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire and Rhode Island because their laws do not expressly require background checks; Vermont issues no permits. Recognition is largely moot for eligible adults because carry is permitless.

Carry rules in Montana

Montana's rules control while you're there. These are the ones travelers trip over most.

• No statutory duty to proactively inform an officer. A traveler carrying under reciprocity must have the permit in immediate possession plus photo ID (MCA 45-8-329).
• Montana sets no state magazine-capacity limit for handguns.
• Montana allows permitless concealed carry for people who may legally possess a handgun, including eligible visitors.
• Montana has no prohibitions on carrying a loaded weapon in a motor vehicle (MT DOJ).

Off-limits places in Montana

• Restricted portions of state or local government office buildings (unless holding a Montana or recognized permit, MCA 45-8-328)
• Courtrooms and spaces controlled by a Montana court (unless authorized by the judge)
• Montana public schools (unless authorized by the school board)
• Federal offices and buildings (federal law)

Frequently asked questions

Is a Vermont non-resident permit valid in Montana?

You cannot hold a Vermont carry permit, because none is issued. Vermont residents traveling to Montana typically rely on a non-resident permit from a state that offers one — and on Montana's policy toward that permit.

Do I have to tell police in Montana that I am carrying?

No statutory duty to proactively inform an officer. A traveler carrying under reciprocity must have the permit in immediate possession plus photo ID (MCA 45-8-329).

Does Montana limit magazine capacity?

Montana sets no state magazine-capacity limit for handguns.

Can I carry in Montana without any permit?

Montana allows permitless concealed carry for people who may legally possess a handgun, including eligible visitors.

Does Vermont issue carry permits at all?

No — to anyone. Vermont has no carry-permit system; carry there is permitless. Vermont residents who want reciprocity coverage elsewhere obtain a non-resident permit from a state that issues one.