Iowa is fairly friendly to long guns but not handguns. If you are traveling from state to state and carrying, you need to know the situation in each state you are entering or you could get into trouble. For certain states or if you have any doubt at all, keeping moving through the state (reference the McClure-Volkmer Act to only stop for gas and emergencies) towards your final destination state. Your destination state must have acceptable laws for your stay. We make some generalities with our color map here for ease of use so you should always look up the current details of the laws. Handgun laws are where it usually varies the most. This is a controversial issue but which ever side you are on, it is better to have informed people out there. You can also download an easy to print version with all states and details.
Iowa Gun Law Travel Guide Basics
Ownership: unrestricted, no license necessary for long guns, required for handguns
Consistency of laws: uniform throughout state, local areas are prohibited from changing laws
Self-defense: NO castle doctrine
Open carry: prohibited without state permit
Concealed carry: licenses issued, no other state permits accepted
Vehicle carry handguns: unloaded and cased in trunk or outside storage
Vehicle carry long guns: unloaded and cased anywhere in vehicle
Official source information
Iowa Code 16 – 724.11
Iowa Statutes
Iowa Legislature
State Firearms Association
Iowa State Home Page
Do you have any experiences in Iowa that you care to share with other travelers?
