Montana CWPs

Montana Concealed Weapons Permits: Standard vs. Enhanced

Standard Permit

• Age: 18+ years old

• Training Required: Demonstrate "familiarity with a firearm" through hunter safety, firearms training course, military service, or similar

• Background Check: Standard criminal background check

• Reciprocity: Recognized in approximately 40 states

• Renewal: No additional training required

Enhanced Permit

• Age: 21+ years old (18-20 may obtain restricted enhanced permit)

• Training Required: Qualifying handgun course completed within 12 months, including:

  • Montana firearms laws and use of force

  • Safe and responsible handgun use

  • Self-defense principles

  • Live-fire qualification (minimum 98 rounds)

• Background Check: FBI fingerprint-based background check (more thorough)

• Reciprocity: Recognized in approximately 45 states (adds 5 states: Delaware, Minnesota, New Mexico, South Carolina, Washington) as of November 2025

• Renewal: Requires another qualifying live-fire course every 5 years

Key Benefits of BOTH Permits

• Carry in state/local government buildings (permit required)

• Exemption from NICS background check when purchasing firearms from licensed dealers

• Out-of-state reciprocity

Why Upgrade to Enhanced?

The Enhanced Permit provides broader reciprocity for travel across more states and demonstrates a higher level of training through comprehensive live-fire qualification and legal instruction. It's ideal for those who frequently travel or want the most recognized permit available.

Ready to upgrade? Contact Shieldwerks LLC for your Enhanced Permit training course.