Where to Put My Gun When Riding a Motorcycle?

If you plan to carry while riding, you have probably thought about where to put your gun when riding a motorcycle. The good news is that Texas has few restrictions on transporting firearms via motor vehicles, so motorcycle owners have relatively broad latitude in how they carry or store guns when riding their bikes. 

Can I Open Carry On My Motorcycle?

Yes, Texas law gives Texas residents the right to carry a handgun in their vehicles, even without a license to carry (LTC), as long as they do so in a lawful manner. Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to follow the law here:

• You are 21 or older.
• The gun is either concealed or in a holster.
• You are not engaged in a crime.
• You are not federally prohibited from owning a gun.
• You are not part of a criminal gang.

As long as the handgun is either in a holster for concealed from view and you are not actively committing a crime, you are free to carry your gun on your motorcycle how you wish. The law is not location–specific, so you don’t have to put your gun in a storage box if it’s not on your person— it just has to be concealed in some way.

If you are under 21, you can still legally carry a handgun in your vehicle as long as you have an LTC. Texas law also does not restrict traveling with long guns like rifles or shotguns on motor vehicles.

Storing a Gun on a Motorcycle

You can holster a gun on your waist, shoulder, ankle, or back while on a motorcycle. If you don’t want to carry on your person, some bikes have built-in storage compartments where you can store your handgun. 

You can also buy additional storage solutions, such as a tailback, and store your handgun there. If you don’t plan on open carrying on your person while on your bike, it’s recommended you buy a durable, hard-case storage option to protect your handgun while in transit. Texas law does not specify that your gun has to be unloaded when stored. 

Crossing State Lines With a Gun on My Motorcycle

In general, federal law allows citizens to cross state lines with a gun on their motorcycles under a few specific conditions:

• The gun must be legal in the state you are coming from and the state you are traveling to,
• The gun cannot be loaded,
• The ammunition cannot be readily accessible, and
• The gun must be in a separate container. 

Different states have different restrictions on the transportation of a firearm on motor vehicles, so be sure you familiarize yourself with local relevant gun laws when you go on interstate road trips. 

Carrying a firearm while riding a motorcycle in Texas is straightforward, thanks to the state’s lenient gun laws, but understanding proper storage and legal requirements is crucial for staying safe and compliant. Whether you choose to carry on your person or store your firearm securely on your bike, always ensure you’re following Texas laws and any regulations that apply if you cross state lines. Preparation and knowledge are key to a safe and lawful ride.

At Law Tigers, we’re here to support motorcyclists with legal advice and resources tailored to riders like you. If you ever need help navigating motorcycle-related legal issues, we’ve got your back. Sign up for our FREE Rider Benefit Kit and take advantage of a free case evaluation anytime you need assistance. Visit Law Tigers today to learn more and ride with confidence!