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Washington Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

Become a responsibly armed Washington resident with our comprehensive firearm training resources.

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Washington Reciprocity Map

  • Last Updated on August 2, 2024
  • yes
  • yes, with restrictions
  • no

Washington Concealed Carry Reciprocity Overview

7.8M

STATE POPULATION

652K

LICENSES ISSUED

8.4%

LICENSE PERCENTAGE

9

STATES HONORED

21

MINIMUM AGE TO CC

5

YEARS LICENSE VALID

28

RECIPROCATING STATES

NO

CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY

TBA

CC CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS

Responsible Washington State Concealed Carry

If you want to apply for a concealed carry permit in Washington, arm yourself with the knowledge to show your familiarity with firearms. Be a responsible gun owner and know your rights when it comes to owning, carrying, and using a gun in Washington. But with so many laws, regulations, and requirements in place, how can you ensure you cover everything?

Concealed Coalition is the leader in firearm education. We provide you with the knowledge, training, and certification you need to achieve your concealed carry permit. We have trained over one million U.S. citizens on how to carry their weapons safely and effectively.

Contact us via phone or online for local training to get your CC license. Answer this simple questionnaire to see if you qualify for a multi-state recognized concealed carry license. Become a responsible gun owner today.

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Summary of Washington Gun Laws

There are approximately 42.10% gun owners in Washington. As a gun owner in the state, it comes with a lot of responsibility. This is why you should undertake gun training programs to know how to handle your firearm and understand the gun laws in your state. Here are basic gun carrying laws you should adhere to as a Washington resident.

Laws Concerning the Sale of Firearms in Washington

You must be at least eighteen years old to own a firearm in Washington. For a private sale of firearms in the state, you must complete a background check and go through a Federal Firearms Licensed (FFL). Retail dealers need to record and report all the pistol sales to the local sheriff and the State Department of Licensing.

Open Carry in Washington

You can legally open carry without a license in Washington as long as you’re at least 21 years old and allowed to possess a gun. However, you must have a valid permit to carry a loaded handgun in any vehicle. There are also areas where open carry is prohibited, including schools, the Capitol, permitted demonstrations, any public legislative office, and any state offices.

Washington Concealed Carry

Concealed carry is legal for residents that have a Concealed Pistol License (CPL). Non-residents must hold a license from a state that Washington honors. Whether you’re a resident or non-resident, you can get a license as long as your minimum age is 21. You can’t carry a concealed gun without a license unless you’re on your property.

Self Defense Laws in Washington

Although Washington doesn’t have Castle Doctrine law, it has a history of ruling in cases of self-defense that a defender has no obligation to retreat if they’re forced to use any level of force and legitimate self-defense.

The use of force is acceptable when you’re trying to prevent an offense against yourself or your loved ones. You can also use it for a person who trespasses your building your property. Homicide is justifiable when committed in reasonable defense against a felony or when someone was in imminent danger of assault, rape, robbery, murder, or any other violent crime.

Washington Gun Laws by Statute

It’s essential for Washington firearm owners to remember that the following laws are subject to change without notice. The attorney general’s website has all the latest information and should be visited regularly by licensees.

Concealed Coalition is dedicated to dispelling the myths surrounding gun ownership and promoting a culture of understanding and responsibility. Our certified instructors are qualified across multiple states, and our online or local training classes provide convenient learning with instructors who care.

Contact us today at (360) 200-0750 or email to discuss your concealed carry permit educational needs.

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Washington Concealed Carry Gun Laws by Statute

WASHINGTON CONCEALED CARRY BASICS

QUESTION

ANSWER

Washington Concealed Carry Reciprocity with Other States

The state of Washington allows residents of other states to legally bear arms when they visit. For Washington to recognize other states’ concealed weapons permits, they must recognize Washington CPLs, be at least 21 years old, and complete a fingerprint-based background check for mental health and criminal history. Below are the states with Washington state concealed carry reciprocity:

  • Idaho (Enhanced permits only)
  • Kansas
  • Louisiana
  • Michigan
  • North Carolina
  • North Dakota (Class 1 permits only)
  • Ohio
  • South Dakota (Enhanced permits only)
  • Utah (regular and not provisional permits only)

Other States' Reciprocity with Washington

Are you a Washington resident looking to visit another state with your gun?

Firearms must be carried in accord with the gun laws of the state you are visiting. Ensure you check the laws of the other state before traveling there with your gun. Below are states that honor permits from Washington. You can check out our Washington state concealed carry reciprocity map above for further reference.

  • Alabama
  • Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
  • Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
  • Indiana
  • Louisiana
  • Mississippi (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
  • Ohio
  • South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
  • Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
  • Virginia
  • Wisconsin

States That Have Restricted Washington CCW Reciprocity

Washington provides resident and non-resident licenses. If a state is indicated with “Resident only” below, it only honors Washington resident permits and not those given to non-residents:

  • Arizona (carry without a permit, at least 21 years old)
  • Alaska (carry without a permit, at least21 years old)
  • Iowa (carry without a permit, at least 21 years old)
  • Kansas (carry without a permit, at least 21 years old)
  • Kentucky (carry without a permit, at least 21 years old)
  • Maine (carry without a permit, at least 21 years old)
  • Michigan (resident permits only)
  • Missouri (carry without a permit, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
  • North Dakota (resident permits only)
  • Oklahoma (carry without a permit, at least 21 years old)
  • Tennessee (carry without a permit, at least 21 years old)
  • Texas (carry without a permit (, at least 21 years old)
  • Utah (carry without a permit, at least 21 years old)
  • West Virginia (carry without a permit, at least 21 years old)
  • Wyoming (carry without a permit, at least 21 years old)

Does Washington recognize constitutional carry?

No, it does not.

What is the Washington state open carry law?

Open carry is permitted in Washington without a license.

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?

21 years old. 

Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Washington with a concealed carry license (or under permit-less carry if applicable)?

No. the state’s CPL does not permit 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.

Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Washington?

Yes, anyone who is at least 14 years old can buy and use them.

Does Washington have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?

No.

Does Washington have ammunition restrictions?

No, it doesn’t.

CONCEALED CARRY LOCATIONS IN WASHINGTON

QUESTION

ANSWER

Where can I not conceal carry in Washington?

There are some places in Washington regarded as off-limits. This means you can’t conceal carry in these areas. If you do, you may get charged with possession of a firearm. These places include

  • The Capitol or legislative offices
  • Schools and universities
  • School buses or any other vehicles that transport children
  • Buildings or locations used by schools
  • Prisons and correctional facilities
  • Building used for court proceedings
  • Voting facilities
  • Safety areas of hospitals, mental health facilities, airports
  • And any other places prohibited by federal law

Where can I carry a concealed firearm in Washington?

The state does not restrict the possession in the following premises:

  • Private property
  • Restaurants and bars: Unless they have a post restricting the possession of firearms
  • Personal vehicles
  • State/National parks and forests
  • Places of worship: Including mosques, churches, and synagogues. But since these places are also private properties, you can’t conceal carry if there’s signage restricting the possession of firearms on the premises
  • Public transport: This includes train, bus, or any other mass transit as long as you have a concealed pistol license
  • Airplane: Except where there is a post prohibiting the possession of firearms

Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Washington?

Yes, when in possession of a Washington Concealed Pistol License.

Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Washington?

Yes, only if you have a Washington Concealed Pistol License.

Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forest and Wildlife Management Areas in Washington?

Yes, if you have a Washington Concealed Pistol License.

Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Washington?

You can only if you have a Washington concealed carry permit.

Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Washington?

Washington gun laws don’t specifically address guns at hotels. Contact the hotel to inquire about its concealed carry policy

Does Washington have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?

Not addressed in state laws

IMPORTANT GUNS LAWS IN WASHINGTON

QUESTION

ANSWER

Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Washington?

No, you don’t.

Are "No Weapons Allowed? signs enforced in Washington? If, yes, violating the sign would be considered to be a crime. If, no, violating the sign would not be considered a criminal offense.

No, it does not.

Does Washington have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e., Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?

Yes, it has, except cities may regulate the possession and discharge of firearms in any portion of their respective jurisdiction.

Does Washington have a red flag law?

It does. Law enforcement or an immediate family member of a person can file a so the court can issue an extreme risk protection order prohibiting you from buying, owning, or receiving a firearm.

Does Washington state law define brandishing?

No definition of brandishing in Washington law. However, it’s unlawful to unreasonably aim a gun at someone.

Does Washington have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or chemical substances?

Not addressed in state laws but as a responsible citizen, you should not use your gun under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Does Washington issue concealed carry licenses to non-residents?

Yes, it does.

Does Washington allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?

It’s legal for residents with a Washington CPL and non-residents that have a permit from a state that Washington honors.

HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION IN WASHINGTON

QUESTION

ANSWER

Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Washington?

No, a permit is not required to purchase a handgun in Washington. However, purchasers of semiautomatic rifles are required to show proof of attending a firearm training program. 

Are background checks required for private gun sales in Washington?

Yes, private buyers and sellers must conduct a firearms transaction through a federally licensed firearms dealer. 

Does my current Washington concealed carry license exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase firearm? 

No. 

Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Washington?

There is no required period stated by Washington gun laws to complete firearms purchases. But a criminal background check can take up to ten days. If you lack a state ID or driver’s license or a non-resident, the criminal record background check can take 10 to 60 days.

Do handguns need to be registered in Washington?

No. 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 in Washington without a license? 

Yes. It is legal for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm to carry a loaded firearm without a license in a person’s place of abode or fixed place of business.  

Acquiring a Washington Concealed Carry Permit

Acquiring a Concealed Carry License in Washington

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WASHINGTON CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION

Concealed Carry Requirements to Register for a License in Washington

To apply for a Washington concealed pistol license, you must meet all the requirements provided by gun laws in the state. You must:

  • Be at least twenty-one years old
  • Not be a convict or fugitive
  • Not be a felon
  • Not have any court protection order that deals with the possession of firearms
  • Not be awaiting trial
  • Not be a drug abuser or use other substances
  • Not have a previously revoked Washington concealed pistol license
  • Not be a mentally impaired
  • Meet all federal law requirements for the CPL permit

Fees:

The initial permit cost about $36 while the renewal cost about $32. However, you can get an extra charge for fingerprints.

Valid For:

Your CPL permit is valid for five years. You can renew it once the permit expires.

Processing Time:

Your permit can be processed within thirty days. But if you don’t have a driver’s license, it can take up to sixty days to process your concealed pistol license.

Applications:

Click here to find a sample application for Washington CCW licenses. 

Non-Resident Concealed Carry License:

The process is the same as for a resident of Washington but cannot be done via mail and requires that you appear in person at any local law enforcement agency in Washington.

Name & Address Changes:

Contact your local sheriff’s office with documentation of your new address. The fee for a replacement license is $10.

Lost or Stolen Licenses:

Apply in person for a replacement at your local sheriff’s office. The fee for a replacement license is $10.

Residency Changes:

Moving to Washington and interested in applying for a resident license? How soon can you apply?
Washington issues two types of licenses for carrying guns: resident and non-resident. You can apply for either license at any time. Washington law requires that every person who becomes a resident of Washington must get a concealed pistol license. To get the license, they must go to a local law enforcement office in person.

Moving from Washington and have a Washington resident license? Does that license transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Washington license remains valid?
If you have a concealed pistol license from Washington and you move to another state, your license is still valid as long as you contact the local sheriff’s office and give them your new address.

WASHINGTON CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE APPLICATION PROCESS

OVERVIEW

If you meet the above requirements, you can apply for a Concealed Pistol License in Washington. To apply, you should follow the procedures below.

Step One:

Visit your local county sheriff’s office to pick up your application or download it online.

Step Two:

Submit the application to a local law enforcement agency. Other documents you should provide include your fingerprint and proof you’re a resident of Washington. You can either issue your state ID card or your driver’s license. If you’re from another state, you must stay in Washington for at least ninety days before application.

Step Three:

You will receive a mail to notify you if your CPL application has been approved or denied.

Fast & Easy CC Certification

WASHINGTON CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE RENEWAL PROCESS

Step One:

Complete an application form at your local city police department or sheriff’s office or download the application.

Step Two:

Take the completed application to the law enforcement office with the following:

  • Proof you have lived in the state for at least 90 days
  • Valid photo ID such as a state ID card or driver’s license
  • If you are a permanent resident alien, bring your permanent resident card
  • If you have an alien firearms license, bring your original passport and U.S.-issued alien number or admission number.

You will be fingerprinted.

Step Three:

You will be notified if your application has been approved.

Concealed Carry for Law Enforcement Officers and Retired LEOs

Law enforcement officers in Washington aren’t restricted from the possession of guns. They can conceal carry in any place under United States jurisdiction. Retired officers or out-of-service officers can also conceal carry as long as haven’t committed a crime and are mentally fit.

Firearms Training & Competency

Our All-Inclusive Concealed Carry Classes in Washington

Basic Firearm Safety

Guns are safe as long as the owner is educated, responsible, and knows how to use them. We offer basic firearm safety classes to teach you about gun laws regarding ownership, possession, and use. Our instructors will customize your lessons depending on your state.

Basic Firearm Handling

Do you own a handgun or rifle? Our gun instructors provide a variety of firearm handling courses, including loading, shooting, defensive training, and reloading. It’ll help you know how to handle your firearm.

Home Safety

If you store your gun at home, it’s important to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones. Our home safety gun training will equip you with basic knowledge on how to handle or store guns safely in your home.

Situational Awareness and Self-defense Training

Paying attention to who is in your personal space and what they’re doing will help you. As a concealed carry firearm owner in Washington, you need to assess situations before deciding to use your gun.

We offer situational awareness classes that’ll help you determine if you or other people are in imminent danger. What’s more, our personal protection courses to help you learn when to pull out a gun in self-defense and how to protect yourself and your loved ones with it.

Women in Target Training

We also have firearm training classes designed exclusively for women. Whether you’re curious about guns or want to learn self-defense, our target training classes for women are a safe place to learn about gun laws and how to use them. Our goal is to give you the confidence you need to safely handle and operate a gun.

Active Shooter Training

Our active shooter training helps prepare you on how to react in case you face an active shooting situation.

Get Certified for a Washington Concealed Carry Permit Today

Expert Instructors

Our team of highly qualified gun instructors ensures that you receive exceptional training help you become a responsible firearm holder. We’ll customize our gun training lessons to meet your needs and your state’s gun laws.

Up-to-Date Training

Gun laws can and do change. Legislators or law enforcement agencies in Washington can alter any regulations listed above at any time. This is why we offer the latest firearm training programs. You can also visit the attorney general’s website for the latest information.

Convenience

If you don’t have time for in-person training, we provide online classes about firearm safety and handling. This allows you to set your own schedule for gun training.

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Did we miss something?

If you have any questions that you don’t see answered here — let us know! Just email [email protected] and we will be sure to get your question resolved promptly. Your feedback matters to us, and we greatly appreciate you helping us make this page the best possible resource for responsible gun owners! The information contained on this website is provided by Concealed Coalition as a service to its members and the public. The information on this page does not constitute legal advice. Our goal is to provide thorough, up-to-date information regarding concealed carry laws, reciprocity, and requirements. We make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information disclosed. At the time of publishing the information contained in this page was correct and up-to-date. However, laws are constantly changing, and as a result, nothing contained on this website should be considered legal advice. Please consult a lawyer should you require legal advice regarding concealed carry and gun laws in your state. Did you know our membership includes a pre-paid legal protection plan? Sign up today and gain access to 24/7 coverage from a team of legal experts.

*Legal protection plans available in select states.





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