How to Properly Handle/Transport your Firearm in a Motor Vehicle.

If you do not have a concealed carry license (“CCW”) then:

The gun must be UNLOADED and meet one of the following:

(1) Be in a closed package, box, or case; or

(2) Be in a compartment that can be reached only by leaving the vehicle; or

(3) Be in plain sight and secured in a rack or holder made for the purpose; or

(4) If the firearm is at least twenty-four inches in overall length as measured from the muzzle to the part of the stock furthest from the muzzle and if the barrel is at least eighteen inches in length, either in plain sight with the action open or the weapon stripped, or, if the firearm is of a type on which the action will not stay open or which cannot easily be stripped, in plain sight.

If you do have a CCW license then:

You are able to carry your concealed weapon anywhere in the state that does not specifically post signage stating that it is a gun-free zone. This includes your car.  However, if you are pulled over by a police officer, and the weapon is concealed, you must alert the officer immediately that you are in possession of a concealed weapon and ask how the officer wishes to proceed.

Although Ohio law does permit those with a permit to carry a concealed firearm, it does not permit someone to carry the firearm in a vehicle the person is operating with a blood alcohol content level over the legal limit. In addition to the DUI offense itself, Ohio laws permits prosecutors to charge someone who is carrying a firearm and is pulled over for a DUI with additional offenses which carry serious criminal punishments.