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Washington Concealed Carry Laws |
Washington is a shall-issue state, with licenses issued at the local level by the sheriff or police department.
Any private sale of firearms in Washington must be conducted through a Federal Firearms Licensed (FFL) dealer, and a background check is required. Retail dealers are required to record and report all retail pistol sales to local police or sheriff and to the State Department of Licensing. For handgun transfers to individuals without a valid Washington driver’s license or state identification card, or who have not been a resident for the previous 90 days, FFLs may not deliver the handgun until the transferee passes a background check or 60 days have elapsed since the request, whichever comes first.
Open carry is legal without a license for anyone at least 21 years old who is legally allowed to possess a firearm. However, there are restrictions on where you can carry, including public schools, state courthouses, the Capitol, state legislative offices, public legislative hearings or meetings, and within 250 feet of permitted demonstrations. A valid permit or license is required to carry a loaded handgun in any vehicle.
Concealed carry is legal for residents with a Washington Concealed Pistol License (CPL) and for non-residents with a license or permit from a state that Washington recognizes. CPLs are issued to individuals who are at least 21 years old. There is no requirement to attend a firearms training course. Concealed carry is prohibited without a license, except in one’s home or fixed place of business. Washington recognizes permits from other states that meet specific requirements.
Washington does not have a specific castle law, but the State Supreme Court has ruled that there is no duty to retreat if a person is in a place they have the lawful right to occupy and is being assaulted.
The use of force is justified in the following cases:
- To prevent or attempt to prevent an offense against oneself or malicious interference with property lawfully possessed, provided the force is not more than necessary.
- To detain someone unlawfully on real property or in a building, as long as the detention is reasonable in duration and manner for investigating the person's presence and the premises were not reasonably open to the public.
Homicide is considered justifiable when committed:
- In reasonable defense against a felony or imminent danger of great personal injury to any person.
- In resisting a felony in or upon a dwelling or other place of abode where the person is located.
A person will not face legal jeopardy for protecting themselves, their family, or their property using any reasonable means necessary, or for assisting another in imminent danger of assault, robbery, kidnapping, arson, burglary, rape, murder, or any other violent crime.
Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Washington?
Yes. Any adult or anyone at least 14 years old with parental or guardian permission can purchase or possess a personal protection spray device. Pepper spray may be used to prevent or attempt to prevent an offense against a person or malicious interference with property, provided the force is not excessive. The active ingredients must be chloracetophenone (CN) or O chlorobenzylidene malonotrile (CS), or other similar agents.
Does Washington allow constitutional carry?
No. Washington does not permit constitutional carry.
Is open carry permitted in Washington?
Yes, open carry is allowed without a license for individuals at least 21 years old who are legally entitled to carry a firearm. However, open carry is prohibited in certain areas including public schools, state courthouses, the Capitol, state legislative offices, public legislative hearings or meetings, and within 250 feet of permitted demonstrations.
If Washington requires a license to carry a concealed firearm, how are those licenses issued?
Washington is a shall-issue state.
What is the minimum age in Washington to get a concealed carry license?
The minimum age to carry concealed handguns in Washington is 21.
Can you carry weapons other than handguns concealed in Washington with a concealed carry license?
No. Washington's Concealed Pistol License (CPL) does not permit the concealed carry of weapons other than handguns.
Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Washington?
Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess for self-defense without a license. However, they are prohibited from being carried onto public or private K-12 school property, buses, or facilities if intended to be used as weapons. The law does not apply to police or school security officers, or to non-students who keep them in their cars while conducting legitimate business at schools. Note that they are illegal to purchase or possess in Ruston, Washington.
Does Washington have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?
Yes. As of July 1, 2022, Washington prohibits the manufacture, importation, distribution, sale, and offering for sale of rifle and pistol magazines that hold more than 10 rounds.
Does Washington have ammunition restrictions?
No. Washington does not have specific restrictions on handgun ammunition types.
Can You Carry A Concealed Handgun In A Vehicle In Washington?
Yes, you can carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle if you have a Washington Concealed Pistol License or a license/permit from a state that Washington honors. The handgun must be on your person, or if you're away from the vehicle, it must be locked and concealed from view inside the vehicle. Without a license, firearms must be transported locked and concealed from view.
Can You Carry A Concealed Firearm At Roadside Rest Areas In Washington?
Yes, with a Washington Concealed Pistol License or a license/permit from a state that Washington honors.
Can You Carry A Concealed Firearm In State/National Parks, State/National Forests, And Wildlife Management Areas In Washington?
Yes, with a Washington Concealed Pistol License or a license/permit from a state that Washington honors.
Can You Carry A Concealed Firearm In Bars And Restaurants That Serve Alcohol In Washington?
Yes, with a Washington Concealed Pistol License or a license/permit from a state that Washington honors. However, you can only carry in areas of the restaurant where persons under the age of 21 are allowed. Carrying is not permitted in bars or bar areas of restaurants.
Can You Carry Or Possess A Firearm On Hotel Property In Washington?
Washington statutes do not specifically address firearms at hotels. It is recommended to check with each hotel individually as they set their own policies regarding concealed carry.
Does Washington Have Laws Relating To Storing Firearms In Private Vehicles In An Employee Parking Lot?
Washington state law does not address this issue.
Does Washington issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?
Yes. Washington allows non-residents to apply for a Concealed Pistol License (CPL).
Does Washington allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
No. The public has no access to Washington's concealed carry database.
Do you have a duty to inform a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Washington?
There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Washington unless the officer asks.
Is my Washington driver’s license linked to my Washington carry license?
Yes. Your Washington driver’s license is linked to your Washington Concealed Pistol License. Therefore, a law enforcement officer will be notified immediately that you are a concealed carry license holder if they run your driver’s license.
Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Washington?
No. Washington state law does not uphold "No Weapons Allowed" signs.
Does Washington have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e., Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?
Yes, the state has preemption of firearms laws in Washington. However, cities may:
- Regulate the discharge of firearms in any area where there is a reasonable likelihood that humans, domestic animals, or property will be jeopardized.
- Regulate the possession of firearms in any stadium or convention center operated by a city, town, county, or other municipality.
Additionally, the Washington Supreme Court has held that a municipal employer may regulate or prohibit a municipal employee’s possession of firearms while on the job or in the workplace.
Does Washington have a red flag law?
Yes, Washington has a red flag law. An immediate family member of a person or a law enforcement officer or agency may file a petition requesting that the court issue an extreme risk protection order prohibiting a person from having in their custody or control, purchasing, possessing, or receiving a firearm.
Does Washington state law define brandishing?
No definition of brandishing was found in Washington law. However, any person who aims any firearm, whether loaded or unloaded, at or towards another person or willfully discharges a firearm in a public place where people might be endangered shall be charged with a crime. It is unlawful to carry, exhibit, display, or draw any firearm or weapon in a manner that manifests an intent to intimidate or that warrants alarm for the safety of others.
Does Washington have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or drugs?
Not addressed in state statutes. As a responsibly armed individual, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgment, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision made while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.
Does Washington have laws regarding semi-automatic rifles?
Yes. Effective April 25, 2023, Washington prohibits the sale, manufacture, and import of assault weapons, with reasonable exemptions for law enforcement and the military. The legislation does not prohibit the possession of assault weapons.
Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Washington?
No, a permit is not required to purchase a handgun. However, according to Initiative 1639, as of July 1, 2019, purchasers of semiautomatic rifles must show proof of attending a firearm safety training program.
Are background checks required for private gun sales in Washington? Are there exceptions?
Yes, background checks are required for private gun sales. Private buyers and sellers must conduct transactions through a federally licensed firearm dealer (FFL). Exceptions include:
- Bona fide gift transfers between certain family members and relatives.
- Transfers to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm, provided the temporary transfer is only as long as necessary and the transferee is legally allowed to possess firearms.
- Certain types of temporary transfers, such as those between spouses or domestic partners or at shooting ranges or competitions.
Does a Washington concealed carry license exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?
No, a Washington concealed carry license does not exempt you from the requirement of a background check when purchasing a firearm.
Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Washington?
There is no mandatory waiting period for handguns. However, Washington allows 10 days to complete a background check on a prospective handgun purchaser before the delivery of the handgun. If the purchaser does not have a valid permanent Washington driver’s license or state identification card, or has not been a resident of the state for the previous consecutive 90 days, the period is extended to 60 days.
Do handguns need to be registered in Washington?
No, handguns do not need to be registered in Washington. However, retail dealers must record and report all retail pistol sales to local police/sheriff and to the State Department of Licensing.
What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Washington?
You must be at least 18 years old to possess or transport a handgun in Washington.
Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a license?
Yes, it is legal for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm to carry a loaded firearm without a license in their home or fixed place of business.
Idaho (Enhanced permits only)
Kansas
Louisiana
Michigan
Montana (Enhanced permits only)
North Carolina
North Dakota (Class 1 permits only)
Ohio
South Dakota (Enhanced permits only)
Utah (regular [not provisional] permits only)
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Carolina
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Virginia
Wisconsin
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
What are the requirements to obtain a concealed carry license in Washington?
An applicant must:
- Be at least 21 years of age.
- Have no pending charges.
- Have no outstanding arrest warrants.
- Have no felony convictions.
- Not be subject to a court order or injunction concerning the possession of firearms.
- Not be free on bond or personal recognizance while awaiting trial, appeal, or sentencing for a felony offense.
- Not have been asked to forfeit a firearm within the last 12 months.
- Not have a revoked concealed pistol license.
- Meet federal law requirements.
Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of Washington.
What are the fees for a concealed carry license?
- Initial license: $36 + fingerprint fee.
- Renewals: $32.
How long is a concealed carry license valid?
The license is valid for 5 years.
What is the processing time for a concealed carry license?
The processing time is 30 days. If you do not have a Washington driver’s license, the processing time extends to 60 days.
Where can I find the concealed carry license application?
You can obtain the application from your local law enforcement agency.
What is the process for obtaining a concealed carry license as a non-resident?
The process is the same as for a resident of Washington but must be completed in person at any local law enforcement agency in Washington.
How do I update my name or address on my concealed carry license?
Contact your local sheriff's office with documentation of your new address. The fee for a replacement license is $10.
What should I do if my concealed carry license is lost or stolen?
Apply in person for a replacement at your local sheriff's office. The fee for a replacement license is $10.
What should I do if I move to or from Washington?
- Moving to Washington: You can apply for a resident license at any time. Once you become a resident of Washington, you must obtain a Washington concealed pistol license to continue carrying a concealed pistol. Apply in person at a local law enforcement office.
- Moving from Washington: Your Washington resident license remains valid until it expires, provided you contact the local sheriff's office with documentation of your new address.
What places are off-limits for concealed carry, even with a permit or license?
- Public or private elementary or secondary school premises, except when picking up or dropping off a student or if the firearm is secured within an attended vehicle or concealed from view within a locked unattended vehicle while conducting legitimate business at the school.
- School-provided transportation.
- Areas of other facilities used exclusively by public or private schools.
- Correctional facilities.
- Law enforcement facilities.
- Any area of a building used in connection with court proceedings, including courtrooms, jury rooms, judge’s chambers, offices, areas used to conduct court business, waiting areas, and adjacent corridors.
- Restricted access areas of public mental health facilities.
- Grounds of state institutions for the care and treatment of mental illness.
- Any portion of an establishment classified by the state liquor and cannabis board as off-limits to persons under 21 years of age.
- Secured areas in airports.
- Licensed child care facilities and emergency respite centers.
- Facilities operated by the Office of Administrative Hearings.
- Outdoor music festivals.
- Racing Association grounds.
- Licensed pregnant and parenting teen residential programs and their facilities.
- Overnight youth shelters and residences operated by the Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration.
- While riding a snowmobile.
- Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation.
What recent changes have been made to firearm restrictions?
On March 23, 2022, Gov. Jay Inslee signed HB 1630 into law, restricting the possession of weapons at school board meetings and ballot counting areas. Open carry is prohibited at local government meetings and election-related sites. This law will take effect on July 1, 2022.
Can I carry in bars or restaurants that serve alcohol?
Yes, in areas of the restaurant where persons under the age of 21 are allowed, unless posted. Concealed carry is not allowed in bars or the bar areas of restaurants.
Can I carry in my vehicle without a permit or license?
No, the firearm must be unloaded and in a closed opaque case or secure wrapper.
Can I carry in roadside rest areas?
Yes.
Can I carry in state/national parks, state/national forests, and wildlife management areas (WMAs)?
Yes.
Can I carry when traveling by bus, train, or other forms of mass transit?
Yes, with a license.
Can I carry when traveling by plane?
Yes, in the unrestricted area of the terminal, unless posted.
Can I carry in places of worship?
There is no state statute prohibiting concealed carry in places of worship. However, since places of worship are private property, they may post signs prohibiting firearms.
What are the knife laws in Washington?
- It is illegal to own a switchblade or other spring-blade knives.
- Open carry of any type of weapon is legal, provided it does not cause alarm. However, open carry is prohibited at the Capitol, state legislative offices, public legislative hearings or meetings, and within 250 feet of permitted demonstrations.
- Concealed carry of dirks, daggers, or other dangerous weapons is illegal.
- Possession of any weapon is prohibited in elementary or secondary schools and school buses.
- Knives are also prohibited in law enforcement facilities, jails, correctional facilities, court facilities, and establishments classified by the state liquor and cannabis board as off-limits to persons under 21 years of age.
- Municipalities like Seattle, Tacoma, and Vancouver have additional restrictions, including prohibitions on carrying any "dangerous knife" with a blade longer than 3.5 inches.
Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Washington?
- Yes, you can carry a concealed firearm while bow hunting. However, the handgun cannot be used to hunt big game or dispatch wounded big game during an archery big game hunting season.
Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Washington?
- Yes, it is illegal to obstruct the lawful taking of fish, shellfish, or wildlife.
Can I wear a COVID-19 protective mask while carrying a concealed firearm in Washington?
- There is no known statute in Washington making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed. County Sheriffs have also confirmed that it is legal for citizens with concealed carry licenses to carry their firearm during the COVID-19 pandemic, even if they are wearing a mask.
Can you concealed carry while shotgun or rifle hunting in Washington?
- Yes, you can concealed carry while engaging in lawful outdoor recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, or horseback riding. It is acceptable if it is reasonable to conclude that you are participating in lawful outdoor activities or traveling to or from a legitimate outdoor recreation area.