For educational reference only. Laws change frequently. Always verify current requirements with Washington's official issuing authority before carrying a firearm. This is not legal advice.
CCW Permit Guide
Washington Concealed Carry Permit 2026
Washington concealed carry requirements: permit fees, training hours, reciprocity states, prohibited locations, and official application information.
Washington is a shall-issue state requiring a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) for concealed carry. Open carry is legal without a permit in most areas. No permitless carry. Washington CPL is issued by local law enforcement.
Shall-Issue State
Non-Resident Permits Available
Open Carry Allowed
2026 CCW Quick Facts
Reference 2026
Resident Fee
$36
Required for concealed carry
Validity
5yr
Renewal required after expiration
Training
Not Required
Training not mandated but recommended
Processing
30
typical processing time
Permit Details
Washington CCW Permit Requirements
Official requirements for obtaining a Washington concealed carry permit or weapon license.
Issuing Authority
Washington State Department of Licensing (Concealed Pistol License)
— 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
$36.00
Non-Resident Fee
$36.00
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
30
Duty to Inform
No Requirement — no legal duty to proactively disclose, though voluntary disclosure is generally recommended
Training Requirements
Washington CCW Training Requirements
No Mandatory Training
Washington does not require firearms training to obtain a concealed carry permit. However, voluntary training is strongly recommended for all carriers to improve safety and legal knowledge.
Reciprocity
States Whose Permits Washington Honors
Washington recognizes concealed carry permits from the following states (23 states):
AKAZARIDKSKYLAMIMOMTNENMNCNDOHOKSDTNTXUTVAWVWY
Always verify current reciprocity status directly with Washington State Department of Licensing (Concealed Pistol License) before traveling. Agreements change.
Out-of-State Recognition
States That Honor the Washington Permit
Your Washington concealed carry permit is recognized in the following states (23 states):
AKAZARIDKSKYLAMIMOMTNENMNCNDOHOKSDTNTXUTVAWVWY
Verify current status before traveling. Each state's carry laws still apply.
Prohibited Locations
Where You Cannot Carry in Washington
Schools and school grounds, courthouses, mental health facilities, restricted areas of jails and prisons, establishments that prohibit weapons by posting
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
Washington-Specific CCW Information
Washington CPL fee of $36 is among the lower fees for shall-issue states. No training required. Non-resident CPLs available at the same fee. Washington passed I-1639 (2018) adding restrictions on semiautomatic rifles. Washington CPL has moderate reciprocity.
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Concealed carry laws in Washington are subject to change through legislation and court decisions. Always verify current requirements with Washington State Department of Licensing (Concealed Pistol License) or a qualified firearms attorney before carrying a firearm.