Gun Permit in Washington DC: Laws, Cost, Restrictions, & FAQs

Washington DC is one of the states that issue gun permits for the concealed carry of firearms within its jurisdiction. However, obtaining a gun permit in the district requires adhering to strict legal requirements. This article aims to provide a detailed guide on obtaining a gun permit in Washington DC, the permit types available, application procedures, associated costs, and reciprocity with other states.

Washington DC Gun Permit Summary

Washington DC operates as a “shall-issue” state for pistol license applications, with the state’s Law Enforcement Division overseeing the process. This means that as long as an individual meets the necessary requirements, they are entitled to obtain a gun permit.

How to Get a Gun Permit in Washington DC

To be eligible for a gun permit in Washington DC, an applicant must be at least twenty-one years old and possess legal rights to possess firearms. It is essential to meet all the specified requirements set by the state’s gun laws before proceeding with the application process.

Washington DC Permit Laws

Washington DC prohibits open carry of firearms, even for pistol permit holders. Additionally, machine guns, large-capacity firearms, and military weapons require individuals to hold federal licenses before possession.

Machine guns, as defined by the state, are firearms capable of firing automatically more than once after a single trigger pull. Additionally, Washington DC prohibits the use of Teflon-coated ammunition in adherence to weapons laws.

Washington DC Pistol Permit Requirements

To apply for a gun permit in Washington DC, an applicant must fulfill the following requirements:

1. Age: At least twenty-one years old.
2. Residency: A resident of Washington DC or a non-resident with property within the state.
3. Firearm Training: Completion of a Washington DC firearm training course.
4. Criminal Record: No convictions for felonies or crimes involving violence.
5. Vision: Must not have impaired vision.
6. Court Order: No court orders prohibiting firearm use, handling, or possession in Washington DC.
7. Federal Law Compliance: Compliance with all federal law requirements for obtaining a gun permit in the United States.

Different Types of Gun Permits in Washington DC

Washington DC issues the following types of gun permits:

1. State Permit to Purchase Long Guns: Not issued in Washington DC.
2. State Permit to Purchase Handguns: Not issued in Washington DC.
3. State Permit to Open Carry: Prohibited in Washington DC.
4. State Permit to Conceal Carry Long Guns: Not issued in Washington DC.
5. State Permit to Conceal Carry Handguns: Issued in Washington DC.

Gun Permits Application and Renewal Law in Washington DC

The process to apply for a Washington DC pistol permit involves several steps:

1. Complete Firearm Training Course: Enroll and complete a recognized Washington DC firearm training class before applying.
2. Download Application Form: Review the concealed carry guide and download the application form from the official website.
3. Submit Application: Submit the completed application to Room 3058, 300 Indiana Ave, NW Washington, D.C. 20001.
4. Submit Necessary Documents: Along with the application form, include a state-issued driver’s license or ID card, firearm training certificate signed by the instructor, applicant checklist, two fingerprint cards, and the required fee payable to the Law Enforcement Division.
5. Military Members: Active-duty military personnel must provide a military order, while retired and honorably discharged members must provide proof.
6. Renewal: For permit renewal, a notice will be sent within ninety to one hundred and twenty days before expiration. For permits expired over eighteen months, a paper renewal application is necessary along with a current copy of the driver’s license. Renewal cannot be done online.

Cost of Getting a Gun License In Washington DC

The cost for both the initial and renewal permit applications in Washington DC is $75.

Gun Permit Reciprocity with Washington DC

Washington DC pistol permits are recognized by several other states. There are three categories of reciprocity:

1. States That Recognize Washington DC Pistol Permit: These states allow Washington DC permit holders to possess firearms within their territory, subject to their own state laws. Some states in this category include Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Mississippi, and Virginia, among others.
2. States That Have Restricted Reciprocity with Washington DC: In these states, possessing firearms with a Washington DC gun permit requires meeting additional individual requirements. States in this category include Arizona, Alaska, Kansas, and Oklahoma, among others.
3. States That Have Permitless Policy for The Possession of Firearms: In these states, no pistol permit is required for open or concealed carry, provided the individual meets minimum age requirements. Most of these states are constitutional carry states.

Relevant Gun Laws, Permits, and Legislature in Washington DC

Various gun laws pertain to the possession of firearms in Washington DC. Some notable ones include:

1. Possession of Firearms in Private Vehicles: Firearms can be carried in private vehicles, with or without a pistol permit, as long as they are safely stored in the trunk, glove compartment, or any other case.
2. Possession of Firearms in Roadside Areas of the State: Possession of firearms in roadside areas is allowed for those with a Washington DC pistol license or a permit recognized by the state.
3. Possession of Firearms in State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management Areas: Concealed carry of firearms is allowed in state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas, subject to individual park policies.
4. Possession of Firearms in Bars and Restaurant Areas: Concealed carry is permitted in restaurant and bar areas with a Washington DC gun permit or a recognized state permit. However, possession is not allowed where prohibited by signage, or if the individual is under the influence of alcohol.

Conclusion

Obtaining a gun permit in Washington DC requires strict adherence to state laws and regulations. Applicants must meet specific criteria, complete firearm training, and submit necessary documents to the Law Enforcement Division for processing. Washington DC’s reciprocity agreements with other states allow permit holders to travel with their firearms, subject to each state’s unique requirements.

FAQs;

Q1. How long is a Washington DC gun permit valid?

A Washington DC gun permit is valid for a specific period, typically five years. Renewal is necessary after expiration.

Q2. Can I apply for a gun permit if I am not a resident of Washington DC?

Non-residents who have property in Washington DC can apply for a gun permit.

Q3.Are retired law enforcement officers exempt from permit fees?

Yes, retired law enforcement officers, honorably discharged military members, and disabled veterans are exempt from CCW permit fees.

Q4. Can I open carry a firearm in Washington DC?

No, Washington DC prohibits open carry of firearms, regardless of permit status.

Q5. Are there any states with which Washington DC does not have reciprocity?

Yes, some states have restricted reciprocity, requiring additional requirements for possessing firearms with a Washington DC permit.