In New Mexico, open carry requires a permit.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not specified

Answer: (B)

Open carry in New Mexico does not require a permit. The state allows adults who may legally possess a firearm to openly carry a handgun in public without a license. The permit requirement exists for carrying a handgun concealed on the body; to do that, you’d need a Concealed Handgun License.

Keep in mind there are still restrictions: prohibited persons (such as certain felons or others disqualified by law) cannot possess firearms, and there are places where firearms are banned regardless of how you carry (like schools, courthouses, certain government facilities, or private property with posted restrictions). If you want to carry concealed, you must obtain the appropriate license; open carry is permitted without one.