Virginia Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW): Gun Laws, Application, Requirements & Online Training
Concealed carry permits, commonly referred to as CCW permits, have become a vital aspect of personal safety and the exercise of Second Amendment rights in the United States. Each state has its unique laws and regulations surrounding concealed carry, making it essential for responsible gun owners to understand the specific requirements and restrictions in their respective states.
In this article, we will explore Virginia’s concealed carry laws, the process of obtaining a CCW permit, reciprocity with other states, location restrictions, and more. Whether you’re a resident or a non-resident planning to carry a concealed weapon in Virginia, this guide will provide you with the necessary information to stay compliant with the state’s gun laws and firearm regulations.
Virginia Concealed Carry Laws: A Detailed Overview
Introduction to Virginia’s Concealed Carry Laws
Virginia is a “shall-issue” state, meaning that law-abiding citizens who meet specific criteria are entitled to receive a concealed carry permit. The state issues permits to both residents and non-residents, each with its unique application process.
Application and Eligibility
To apply for a Virginia CCW permit, you must be at least twenty-one years old and meet all the state’s concealed carry requirements, including:
- Residency in the county you are applying to
- Completion of a Virginia concealed carry permit course for firearm training to demonstrate competency in firearms
- No conviction for multiple charges of misdemeanor within the last five years
- No drug addiction or illegal use of controlled substances
- No conviction for any drunkenness crime within the last three years
- No history of juvenile delinquent acts that would be felonies if committed by an adult
- No conviction or indictment for stalking
- No restraining order or protective order from the court
- No involuntary admission to a mental hospital within the last five years
Reciprocity with Other States
Virginia honors concealed carry permits from all states in the USA. The state has reciprocity with sixteen states that accept Virginia CCW permits without additional criteria. However, five states have restricted reciprocity and will only accept CCW permits issued to residents of Virginia.
Location Restrictions
While Virginia allows concealed carry in many places, there are specific areas where you are not allowed to possess a firearm or any other concealed carry weapon. These off-limit places include courthouses, state capitol buildings, prisons, and private or publicly owned schools and colleges.
Places Where You Can Conceal Carry
On the other hand, there are places where you can legally conceal carry in Virginia. You can carry in restaurants and bars, state/national parks and forests (excluding certain wildlife management areas), roadsides and rest areas, and in your vehicle (with a permit).
Concealed Carry for Law Enforcement Officers
Under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) in Virginia, active, out-of-service with good standing, and retired law enforcement officers can carry concealed weapons in any jurisdiction without being bound by state and local laws.
Buying and Selling of Firearms
Virginia does not require a purchase permit or firearm registration. However, since January 2021, all licensed dealers must complete a criminal record background check before selling a firearm in the state.
Possession of Firearms on Personal Properties
Virginia adheres to the Castle Doctrine, allowing the use of deadly force for self-defense or defense of others from imminent bodily injury or death. The Castle Doctrine also applies to places where you are lawfully present, not just your home.
Virginia Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) Handgun Permit
Virginia is a shall-issue state for concealed handgun permits. The Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit allows residents 21 years of age or older to carry concealed firearms provided they pass a background check, complete an online or in-person safety course, submit their application, and pay the required fee. With some exceptions, those with a valid Virginia concealed carry permit can conceal carry handguns openly or hidden throughout the state and under reciprocity with other states.
Virginia concealed carry permits last for 5 years before needing to be renewed. Obtaining a permit enables concealed carry but is not required solely for purchasing a handgun in Virginia. The state strives to make permits accessible to legally eligible applicants interested in their self-defense rights.
CCW Permit Requirements
To obtain a Virginia CCW permit, you must complete a certified firearm training course, be at least twenty-one years old, meet residency requirements, and fulfill several other criteria set by the state.
How to Apply for a CCW Permit in Virginia
To apply for a CCW permit in Virginia, enroll in a state-approved concealed carry course, obtain the application form, submit the completed application along with necessary documents, and wait for the approval notification.
Conclusion
if you’re planning to conceal carry in Virginia, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the state’s gun laws and concealed carry policies. Make sure to meet all the requirements for obtaining a CCW permit and understand the location restrictions to avoid any legal complications. Responsible concealed carry allows for personal protection while ensuring compliance with the state’s firearm regulations.
FAQs;
Q1: For how long is my Virginia handgun permit valid?
The Virginia handgun permit is valid for five years, after which you must apply for a renewal.
Q2: How much is the CCW permit application fee in Virginia?
The initial and renewal permit applications for residents cost fifty dollars, except in King William County, where residents pay fifteen dollars. Non-residents’ permits cost a hundred dollars. However, retired law enforcement officers who served for at least fifteen years can obtain the permit free of charge.
Q3: How long does it take to get my CCW permit in Virginia?
The processing period for CCW permits in Virginia is approximately forty-five days.
Q4: Can I carry a loaded pistol in my car in VA?
Yes, Virginia allows any person who is legally eligible to possess a firearm to carry a loaded handgun in a personal vehicle, concealed or openly. No concealed carry permit is required just for vehicle carry. Long guns may also be transported loaded.
Q5: Does Virginia stand your ground?
Yes, Virginia has stand-your-ground self-defense laws. Individuals have no duty to retreat before using lawful self-defense if they reasonably perceive a threat. Deadly force is allowed if they believe it necessary to avoid death/harm.
Q6: Can I carry a loaded pistol in my car in VA 2023?
Yes, carrying a loaded handgun in a personal vehicle remains legal in Virginia in 2023 with no major changes to state laws. As long as the individual is legally allowed to own firearms, loaded carry in a vehicle does not require any special permit in VA.
Q7: When can I apply for my renewal permit?
You can start your renewal application ninety days before the permit expires, and you have up to one hundred and eighty days after the permit expires to apply.
Q8: Can I carry a concealed weapon on my personal property in Virginia?
Yes, you can possess a firearm in your home, personal business, real estate, or any other property you lease or rent in Virginia. The Castle Doctrine permits the use of deadly force for self-defense within your lawful premises.
