Traveling With a Firearm by Train 2026 | Amtrak & Regional Rail Rules

Traveling by train with a firearm may feel simpler than flying, but it still comes with strict regulations. Whether you’re taking Amtrak, regional commuter rail, or other passenger services, knowing the rules ahead of time will prevent legal issues, fines, or confiscation. In 2026, policies remain mostly the same as previous years, but slight updates in Amtrak’s safety guidelines and local transit laws mean planning ahead is crucial.

This guide explains exactly how to legally transport firearms on trains, what types of firearms are allowed, how to store them, and the differences between handguns, rifles, and shotguns.

1. Amtrak Firearm Policy Overview

Amtrak allows firearms to be transported in checked baggage only, and strict rules apply:

All firearms must be unloaded.

Firearms must be in a locked hard-sided case.

Ammunition must be stored separately in manufacturer’s packaging.

Travelers must declare firearms at check-in.

Types of Firearms Allowed

Handguns

Rifles

Shotguns

Prohibited firearms include:

Fully automatic firearms

Destructive devices (grenades, explosives)

Short-barreled rifles and shotguns (unless legally registered)

2. How to Prepare Your Firearm for Train Travel
Step 1: Unload Everything

Remove the magazine and ensure the chamber is empty.

Check for any live rounds inside the gun.

Step 2: Use a Locked Hard Case

Case should have a secure padlock.

Cases must prevent access to the firearm during transport.

TSA-style lockable cases are acceptable for Amtrak.

Step 3: Store Ammunition Separately

Keep ammo in original manufacturer packaging.

Small quantities are typically allowed in checked baggage, but local laws may restrict certain calibers.

Step 4: Declare at Check-In

All firearms must be declared to the baggage agent.

Failure to declare can lead to fines, confiscation, or law enforcement involvement.

3. Handguns vs. Rifles vs. Shotguns
Handguns

Can only be transported in checked baggage.

Must be unloaded and in a locked hard-sided container.

Magazines and ammo stored separately.

Rifles & Shotguns

Same requirements as handguns.

Often transported in long gun cases that fit in Amtrak’s checked baggage policies.

Pro Tip (2026 Update): Amtrak allows firearms in baggage up to 50 lbs per bag, but oversized gun cases may require freight shipping.

4. Regional Commuter Rail and Light Rail Policies

Not all trains allow firearms, and policies vary by city and state:

Rail System Firearm Policy
New Jersey Transit Prohibited on all passenger trains
Metro-North (NY) Prohibited on all passenger trains
SEPTA (Philadelphia) Handguns allowed only with concealed carry permit on commuter trains
MBTA (Boston) Firearms prohibited
Local commuter rail (Midwest/West) Often follows state concealed carry rules; check before travel

Key takeaway: Always check the specific rail operator’s website before planning your trip.

5. Special Considerations for Amtrak Long-Distance Travel

Amtrak allows firearms across state lines, but you must follow:

Federal regulations: All guns must be unloaded.

State laws: You must comply with firearm transport laws of each state you pass through.

Train rules: You must follow Amtrak’s baggage policies — oversized cases may require advance notice.

Examples of state restrictions:

California: Handguns in checked baggage are allowed, rifles and shotguns must comply with magazine restrictions.

New Jersey: Extremely strict — firearms prohibited, including for passing travelers.

6. Ammunition Rules

Amtrak allows passengers to transport small quantities of ammunition:

Must be in factory packaging

Handgun ammo: Up to 50 rounds per passenger

Rifle/shotgun ammo: Up to 50 rounds per passenger

Prohibited: Explosive or incendiary rounds

Always check the latest Amtrak safety bulletins — some trains limit ammo quantities during holidays or special events.

7. Carrying Firearms in the Passenger Area

Unlike airlines, you cannot bring firearms into the passenger cabin.

This applies to handguns, rifles, and shotguns.

Firearms must remain in checked baggage at all times.

Concealed carry permits do not grant permission to carry a firearm on board.

8. Cross-State Travel Considerations

Even though Amtrak is federal and crosses state lines:

Passengers must comply with local laws at each station.

Some states with restrictive laws (NJ, NY, CA) may require advance notice.

If your journey involves prohibited states, consider shipping firearms ahead via a courier service or Amtrak freight service.

Pro Tip: Carry proof of registration for all firearms — Amtrak may request documentation if local police question your travel.

9. How to Pack Firearms Efficiently for Train Travel

Use a dedicated gun case with foam inserts to protect the firearm.

Separate ammo in a small locked box inside the luggage.

Label your bag as “Contains Firearm – Check With Agent.”

Take photos of firearms and serial numbers in case of loss or damage.

10. Traveling With Sporting Gear

Some travelers bring firearms for hunting or sports:

Hunting rifles: Allowed if properly cased and unloaded.

Shotguns: Same rules as rifles.

Accessories (scopes, bipods): Can be packed in the same case.

Tip: If traveling to hunting destinations, check state wildlife transport laws. Some states have limits on transport of rifles and shotguns even within the state.

11. Security Screening and Inspections

Amtrak baggage is screened with X-ray machines and may be subject to manual inspection.

Always declare firearms

Do not attempt to hide firearms in checked baggage

Follow all agent instructions

Amtrak security officers may involve local law enforcement if rules are violated.

12. Summary: Legal & Safe Train Travel With Firearms

Traveling with firearms by train in 2026 is legal and safe if you:

Unload the firearm completely.

Store it in a locked hard-sided case.

Pack ammunition separately.

Declare all firearms at check-in.

Follow state and local laws.

Avoid prohibited rail systems (regional commuter lines with bans).

Following these rules prevents fines, confiscation, and legal issues, allowing you to enjoy your trip confidently.