More Laws, Less Rights
When it comes to protecting yourself and your family, understanding concealed carry laws Washington is a must. In this guide, we break down the rules, requirements, and practical tips that every responsible gun owner in Washington should know. From the basics of open carry to the details of applying for a Concealed Pistol License (CPL), read on to get a clear picture of how Washington law keeps you safe and your rights intact.
Table of Contents
The Basics of Washington Gun Laws
Washington is a shall-issue state, which means that if you meet the legal requirements, local law enforcement (sheriffs or police departments) must issue you a permit. Here’s what you need to know:
Open Carry:
Anyone 21 or older who is legally allowed to have a gun can openly carry a firearm. However, there are restrictions. For example, open carry is not allowed on public school grounds, state courthouses, or within 250 feet of a permitted demonstration. The Capitol and state legislative offices are also off-limits.Private Sales and FFLs:
Any private sale of firearms must be completed through a Federal Firearms Licensed (FFL) dealer, and a background check is required. Retail dealers must also record all pistol sales and report them to local law enforcement and the State Department of Licensing.Registration and Transfers:
Handguns sold by retail dealers are recorded, and transfers to individuals who lack a valid Washington driver’s license or haven’t been a resident for 90 days require an extra background check or a waiting period of 60 days.
Getting Started with Concealed Carry
Under concealed carry laws Washington, you can carry a concealed handgun if you hold a valid Washington Concealed Pistol License (CPL) or if you have a permit from a state that Washington honors. Here’s a closer look:
Eligibility:
Must be at least 21 years old
Must have no pending charges, no felony convictions, and no active arrest warrants
Must not be under any court order that limits firearm possession
Application Process:
You must apply in person at your local law enforcement office. The process involves filling out an application, providing proof of residency (or valid identification for non-residents), and being fingerprinted. The processing time is about 30 days (60 days if you don’t have a Washington driver’s license).Fees and Renewal:
The initial fee is around $36 (plus a fingerprint fee), and renewals cost about $32. Your CPL is valid for 5 years, and if you move within or out of Washington, you must update your information with the local sheriff’s office.
Where Can You Carry?
Even with a CPL in hand, concealed carry laws Washington set clear boundaries on where you can carry your firearm:
Vehicles:
You can carry a concealed handgun in your vehicle if you have a valid CPL or a recognized out-of-state permit. If you are not licensed, the firearm must be unloaded, locked, and out of sight.Public Places:
Concealed carry is allowed in state/national parks, forests, and wildlife management areas. However, you cannot carry in bars, restaurants (except in areas where persons under 21 are allowed), schools, courthouses, or on certain government properties.Tribal Lands:
Some tribal lands in Washington allow concealed carry, but only with a valid Washington permit.Hotels and Transit:
Carrying in hotels is subject to each hotel’s policy, and while you can carry on public transit with a license, always check local guidelines.
Self-Defense and Use of Force
Washington law provides protection for those who need to defend themselves:
- Defending Against Violent Crime:
No person is put in legal jeopardy for protecting themselves, their family, or their property by any reasonable means. - Justifiable Homicide:
Homicide is justifiable in defense against a felony or when facing imminent danger of serious injury. - Use of Force:
You may use force to prevent an offense against yourself or to detain someone unlawfully on your property—as long as the force used is not excessive.
It’s important to note that while Washington does not have a strict “castle law,” the state Supreme Court has ruled there is no duty to retreat if you are in a place you lawfully occupy and are being assaulted. For more information on self-defense laws check out our online resources guide here.
The Role of Concealed Carry Training
Even though Washington does not require you to complete a firearms training course to obtain a CPL, concealed carry training is highly recommended. Here’s why:
- Safety First:
Training ensures you know how to safely handle and store your firearm, reducing the risk of accidents. - Legal Knowledge:
Courses help you understand concealed carry laws Washington and how to use your gun responsibly in self-defense situations. - Boosted Confidence:
Proper training prepares you for real-life scenarios and helps you make quick, informed decisions under pressure.
For those who are serious about being responsible gun owners, investing time in training is as important as the legal process.
How Washington Compares: CCW Requirements by State
When looking at CCW requirements by state, Washington’s process stands out for its balance between accessibility and safety. Key comparisons include:
- Reciprocity:
Washington honors concealed carry permits from several states. However, the other state must meet specific criteria, such as having a mandatory fingerprint-based background check. - Application Ease:
Local law enforcement handles CPL applications in Washington, making the process more straightforward compared to some states. - Training Recommendations:
While not mandatory, Washington encourages concealed carry training to ensure every permit holder is well-prepared for self-defense.
This balance makes Washington a strong example of how CCW requirements by state can work to empower citizens while maintaining public safety.
Additional Gun Law Highlights in Washington
Washington’s gun laws cover much more than just carry permits. Here are some other key points:
- Assault Weapons and Magazine Limits:
As of April 25, 2023, Washington bans the sale, manufacture, and import of assault weapons. Additionally, magazines holding more than 10 rounds are prohibited since July 1, 2022. - Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray:
Pepper spray is legal for anyone 14 and older (with parental permission for minors) and can be used for self-defense. - Ammunition and Purchase Regulations:
No specific ammunition types are forbidden, but a background check is required for private sales through an FFL. Starting January 1, 2025, there is a 10-day waiting period for handgun purchases. - Red Flag Law:
Washington’s red flag law allows family members or law enforcement to petition for the temporary removal of firearms if someone poses a risk. - Public Access and Preemption:
The concealed carry registry is not available to the public, and state law generally preempts local gun regulations—except in specific situations like regulating firearm discharge in crowded areas.
Location Restrictions You Must Know
Even with a valid CPL, some places remain off-limits. These restrictions include:
- Schools and Childcare Facilities:
Concealed carry is not allowed on elementary or secondary school premises, school buses, or in areas used exclusively by public or private schools. - Government Buildings and Courthouses:
Courthouses, legislative offices, and related areas are off-limits. - Sensitive Areas:
Airports, correctional facilities, and certain mental health facilities also prohibit concealed carry. - Temporary Bans:
Events like public meetings or election-related sites may have temporary restrictions on firearm possession.
Being aware of these restrictions is vital to staying on the right side of the law.
Policing the Brass - Final Thoughts
Understanding concealed carry laws Washington is about more than just getting a permit—it’s about being a responsible, informed citizen. Whether you’re applying for your first CPL, comparing CCW requirements by state, or considering additional concealed carry training, staying educated helps you protect yourself and your loved ones while respecting the law.
By following the rules on where and how you can carry, and by investing in proper training, you ensure that you’re ready to act responsibly in any situation. Stay safe, stay informed, and remember: knowledge is your best defense. For a downloadable guide to Washinton gun laws, check out HandgunLaw.us.
Take charge of your safety, and always be prepared to adapt as laws and policies evolve. With a clear understanding of Washington’s gun laws, you can confidently exercise your rights while keeping your community secure.
Concealed Carry Laws Washington: Q&A Section
Carry Basics Questions
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? | Yes – any adult or anyone aged 14+ (with parental permission for minors) may purchase or possess a personal protection spray device. It can be used for self-defense, with active ingredients such as CN or CS (commonly known as mace or pepper gas). |
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? | Washington is a shall-issue state; concealed carry permits (CPLs) are issued at the local level by the sheriff or police department. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? | Yes – any person 21 or older who is legally allowed to possess a firearm may open carry, though restrictions apply (e.g., on public schools, state courthouses, the Capitol, legislative offices, and within 250 feet of permitted demonstrations). |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? | Yes – tasers and stun guns are legal for self-defense without a license. However, they cannot be carried onto K-12 school property, buses, or facilities for the purpose of injuring someone; note they are illegal in Ruston, Washington. |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? | No – Washington’s concealed carry permit only authorizes the concealed carry of handguns. |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? | No – there are no specific restrictions on the types of handgun ammunition in Washington. |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? | Yes – as of March 23, 2022, a law prohibits the manufacture, importation, distribution, and sale of magazines holding more than 10 rounds, effective July 1, 2022. |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? | The minimum age to obtain a concealed carry permit in Washington is 21. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? | No – Washington does not allow constitutional carry. |
Carry Location Questions
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? | With a valid Washington CPL or an honored out-of-state permit, you may carry in areas of a restaurant where persons under 21 are allowed; however, concealed carry is prohibited in bars or bar areas. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS (WMAS)? | Yes – you may carry a concealed firearm in these areas with a valid Washington CPL or a recognized out-of-state permit. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? | Yes – you can carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle if you have a valid CPL or recognized permit. The firearm must be on your person, or if you leave the vehicle, it must be locked and concealed. Without a permit, the firearm must be transported locked and out of sight. |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? | Washington law does not specifically address firearms at hotels; it is best to check the individual hotel’s policy regarding concealed carry. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? | Yes – with a valid Washington CPL or an honored out-of-state permit, concealed carry is allowed at roadside rest areas. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? | This is not specifically addressed under Washington state law. |
Key State Laws
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? | No – the public does not have access to Washington’s concealed carry registry information. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? | No – you are not required to inform a law enforcement officer that you are carrying a concealed firearm unless the officer asks. |
| RED FLAG LAW? | Yes – Washington has a red flag law allowing immediate family members or law enforcement to petition for an extreme risk protection order. |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? | No – Washington state law does not enforce “No Weapons Allowed” signs; violating such a sign is not a criminal offense. |
| TRIBAL LAND? | Yes – concealed carry is allowed on certain tribal lands in Washington (Hoh Tribe, Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe, Nisqually Tribe, Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, Quileute, Snoqualmie Tribe, Suquamish Tribe, and Swinomish Tribe) with a valid Washington permit. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? | This is not specifically addressed in Washington state statutes; however, it is unwise to carry while impaired. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? | Yes – Washington issues concealed carry permits to non-residents. |
| BRANDISHING? | Washington law does not provide a specific definition of brandishing; however, aiming or discharging a firearm in a manner that endangers others is a criminal offense. |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? | Yes – your Washington driver’s license is linked to your concealed carry permit, so law enforcement is immediately informed if you are a permit holder. |
| PREEMPTION? | Yes – state law preempts local laws regarding firearms, with limited exceptions (e.g., regulations on discharge in certain venues or by municipal employers). |
Handgun Purchase & Possession Questions
| WAITING PERIOD? | Yes – as of January 1, 2025, there is a 10-day waiting period after purchasing a handgun. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? | No – your current Washington concealed carry permit does not exempt you from the required background check when purchasing a firearm. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? | No – a permit is not required to purchase a handgun in Washington; however, purchasers of semiautomatic rifles must show proof of attending a firearm safety training program per I-1639. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? | Yes – private gun sales must be completed through a Federal Firearms Licensed (FFL) dealer with a background check, except for certain exempt transfers (e.g., bona fide gift transfers among close family members). |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? | You must be at least 18 years old to possess or transport a handgun in Washington. |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? | Yes – it is legal to possess and carry a loaded handgun without a permit in your place of abode or fixed place of business. |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? | No – handguns do not need to be registered in Washington, though retail dealers must record and report all pistol sales. |
Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States
| WHAT STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES WASHINGTON HONOR? | Washington honors concealed carry permits from states that meet its requirements – specifically from 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), and Utah (regular permits only). |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH WASHINGTON? | Washington’s permits are honored by Alabama, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH WASHINGTON? | States with restricted reciprocity (resident-only recognition) include: Alaska, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan (resident permits only), Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming. |
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? | The Permitless Carry States are: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming. |
Concealed Carry License Information Questions
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | You must apply in person for a replacement at your local sheriff’s office; the replacement fee is $10. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Concealed carry permits in Washington are valid for 5 years. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | A sample application can be obtained from your local city police department or sheriff’s office website. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | Yes – non-resident CPLs are issued in Washington; however, you must appear in person at a local law enforcement agency to apply. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF WASHINGTON AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you move to Washington, you must obtain a Washington CPL to continue carrying. If you move out, your permit remains valid until expiration provided you notify your local sheriff’s office with documentation of your new address. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | The initial fee is $36 plus a fingerprint fee; renewals cost $32, and replacement fees are $10. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | Processing typically takes 30 days, or 60 days if you do not have a Washington driver’s license. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | You must contact your local sheriff’s office with documentation of your new address; a replacement fee of $10 applies. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | You must be at least 21 years old, have no pending charges, no outstanding arrest warrants, no felony convictions, not be under a court order regarding firearms, not be on bond for a felony offense, not have had a firearm forfeiture request in the past 12 months, not have a revoked permit, and meet federal law requirements. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | Complete an application form (available at your local police department or sheriff’s office or online), provide proof of residency (90+ days), a valid photo ID (and additional documentation if you are a permanent resident or have an alien firearms license), get fingerprinted, and submit the application in person. You will be notified upon approval. |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | Washington does not require completion of a firearms safety course prior to issuance of a CPL; however, the USCCA recommends obtaining as much training as possible. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | You may renew your permit in person from 90 days before to 90 days after expiration (late fees apply); if more than 90 days expired, a new application is required. Bring a valid photo ID and, if applicable, a permanent resident card. |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | You may carry in your abode, fixed place of business, your vehicle (with a valid permit), state/national parks, forests, and Wildlife Management Areas, and other public places not explicitly prohibited by law. |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | You cannot carry in public or private elementary/secondary schools (with few exceptions), school transportation, correctional and law enforcement facilities, court buildings, certain mental health facilities, areas off-limits to persons under 21, airports, polling places, and other restricted locations as defined by state law. |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes – it is illegal to obstruct the lawful taking of fish, shellfish, or wildlife in Washington. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes – you can carry a concealed firearm while engaging in lawful outdoor recreational activities, such as hunting, provided all legal requirements are met. |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Yes – however, the concealed handgun cannot be used to hunt or dispatch wounded big game during an archery hunting season. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | It is illegal to own a switchblade or spring-blade knife in Washington. While open carry of a knife is allowed if it does not cause alarm, concealed carry of dangerous knives (e.g., dirks or daggers) is prohibited, with additional restrictions possible at the local level. |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK AND CARRY CONCEALED? | Yes – there is no statute prohibiting wearing a COVID-19 protective mask while carrying a concealed firearm. |
| ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEOS OR RETIRED LEOS? | Yes – law enforcement officers (LEOs) and Retired LEOs may carry under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) with appropriate credentials and proof of proficiency; no background check is required under LEOSA, and they enjoy privileges similar to CPL holders. |
Legal Note
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort has been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances can vary. It is solely the reader’s responsibility to verify the accuracy and applicability of any information presented here. The author, publisher, and any affiliated entities assume no liability for actions taken by readers based on the content of this article. For specific legal guidance, please consult a qualified attorney.
