For educational reference only. Laws change frequently. Always verify current requirements with Virginia's official issuing authority before carrying a firearm. This is not legal advice.
CCW Permit Guide
Virginia Concealed Carry Permit 2026
Virginia concealed carry requirements: permit fees, training hours, reciprocity states, prohibited locations, and official application information.
Virginia is a shall-issue state (effective 2021). A Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) is required to carry concealed. Open carry is legal without a permit statewide. Virginia does not issue non-resident permits.
Shall-Issue State
Open Carry Allowed
2026 CCW Quick Facts
Reference 2026
Resident Fee
$50
Required for concealed carry
Validity
5yr
Renewal required after expiration
Training
8 Hours
Firearms safety or training course — NRA, law enforcement, military courses accepted
Processing
45
typical processing time
Permit Details
Virginia CCW Permit Requirements
Official requirements for obtaining a Virginia concealed carry permit or weapon license.
Issuing Authority
Virginia State Police (Concealed Handgun Permit)
- Official Site
Permitless Carry
Permit Required - a permit is required to carry concealed
Issue Standard
Shall Issue - the issuing authority must issue a permit to any qualified applicant who meets the requirements
Open Carry
Allowed
- no permit required for open carry
Resident Fee
$50.00
Permit Valid
5 years from issuance date - renewal required
Minimum Age
21 years old (resident permit)
Background Check
Required - FBI NICS background check required for permit application
Processing Time
45
Duty to Inform
No Requirement - no legal duty to proactively disclose, though voluntary disclosure is generally recommended
Training Requirements
Virginia CCW Training Requirements
Training Required
Virginia requires completion of an approved firearms training course before a permit will be issued.
Minimum training time: 8 hours. Approved training types: Firearms safety or training course — NRA, law enforcement, military courses accepted.
Reciprocity
States Whose Permits Virginia Honors
Virginia recognizes concealed carry permits from the following states (24 states):
AKAZARIDKSKYLAMIMSMOMTNENMNCNDOHOKSCSDTNTXUTWVWY
Always verify current reciprocity status directly with Virginia State Police (Concealed Handgun Permit) before traveling. Agreements change.
Out-of-State Recognition
States That Honor the Virginia Permit
Your Virginia concealed carry permit is recognized in the following states (24 states):
AKAZARIDKSKYLAMIMSMOMTNENMNCNDOHOKSCSDTNTXUTWVWY
Verify current status before traveling. Each state's carry laws still apply.
Prohibited Locations
Where You Cannot Carry in Virginia
Schools and school zones, courthouses, churches during worship services (unless authorized), air carrier terminals, any place of public business that posts proper signage, any place prohibited by federal law
Note: Federal law also prohibits carry in federal facilities, federal courthouses, and other locations regardless of state law. Always check both state and federal restrictions.
Important Notes
Virginia-Specific CCW Information
Virginia became shall-issue effective July 1, 2021. Applications submitted to circuit court of residence. Virginia does not issue non-resident CHP — out-of-state visitors must rely on reciprocity from their home state.
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Concealed carry laws in Virginia are subject to change through legislation and court decisions. Always verify current requirements with Virginia State Police (Concealed Handgun Permit) or a qualified firearms attorney before carrying a firearm.