Concealed CarryReciprocity Map

Virginia Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map

Virginia is a shall-issue state that requires a permit to conceal carry. Licenses are issued to residents and non-residents who meet certain qualifications. Virginia recognizes concealed carry permits from every other U.S. state.

To qualify for a Virginia concealed carry permit, you must be at least 21 years old; be a resident or lawful permanent alien of the U.S.; be a resident of the county in which you’re applying; demonstrate competency with a handgun; and meet all federal requirements. There are also certain factors that can disqualify you from obtaining a Virginia carry permit.

Open carry is legal in Virginia without a permit for those over the age of 18 and legally allowed to possess a firearm. However, some municipalities may prohibit open carry in some public areas. 

To learn more about Virginia CCW requirements, review state laws here or visit the Virginia State Police’s website. 

*Disclaimer: This Virginia concealed carry reciprocity map is not legal advice. For the most up-to-date information, check your state laws or consult an attorney. 

Virginia Concealed Carry Laws at a Glance

Virginia Concealed Carry FAQ

What is Reciprocity? 

Concealed carry reciprocity refers to a mutual agreement between two states to honor CCW licenses issued by one another. Depending on the state, concealed carry reciprocity can vary greatly. Some states simply accept permits from other states, while others do so with some added caveats. To learn more about this topic, check out “What is Concealed Carry Reciprocity”.

Which States’ Permits Does Virginia Honor? 

Virginia recognizes concealed carry permits issued by every U.S. state to individuals at least 21 years old. 

What States Honor a Virginia Concealed Carry Permit?

Gun laws vary from state to state. When traveling with firearms, it’s your responsibility to know and comply with the laws of the state you’re visiting. Before transporting a gun over state lines, always check the laws in that state to ensure you’re doing so legally. 

The following states honor Virginia concealed carry permits. Please note that while those marked with an asterisk do offer Virginia CCW reciprocity, additional rules and restrictions may apply. 

Is a Concealed Carry Permit Required in Virginia?

Yes. Concealed carry is only permitted in Virginia for those who have a license to do so.

How to Get a Concealed Carry Permit in Virginia: Requirements

To obtain a Virginia CCW license, you must meet certain eligibility requirements: 

• Be at least 21 years old. 

• Be a resident or lawful permanent alien of the United States. 

• Be a resident of the county in which you are applying. 

• Demonstrate competency with a handgun. 

• Meet all federal requirements. 

There are also certain factors that make you ineligible to obtain a Virginia carry permit:  

• Being a fugitive from justice. 

• A dishonorable military discharge. 

• Be ineligible to possess a firearm under certain specified rules. 

• Being the subject of a restraining order. 

• Two or more misdemeanor convictions within the past five years. 

• Addiction or unlawful use of a controlled substance. 

• A conviction for public drunkenness within the past three years. 

• Being found by court to be likely to use a weapon negligently, illegally, or in a way that may endanger others. 

• A conviction or pending charges for assault or battery within the past three years. 

• A conviction or pending charges for brandishing or unlawfully discharging a firearm within the past three years. 

• Be convicted of or charged with stalking. 

• A juvenile delinquency conviction that would have been a felony if it had been committed by an adult. 

• Having received residential treatment for mental health or substance abuse within the past five years. 

For a full, detailed list of eligibility requirements and disqualifiers in the state of Virginia, visit the Virginia State Police’s website. 

Can a Non-resident Conceal Carry in Virginia?

Yes, Virginia honors valid CCW permits from every U.S. state issued to those 21 and older. The state also offers non-resident permits to those meeting the same requirements as residents. 

Is Virginia an Open Carry State?

Yes. In Virginia, open carry is legal for anyone at least 18 years old who is legally permitted to possess a handgun. No permit is required for open carry in Virginia. That being said, some localities, such as Alexandria and Newport News, may prohibit open carry at certain public places and events. 

Where Can I NOT Carry a Concealed Weapon in Virginia?

Even with a concealed carry permit, some places are off-limits to concealed carry in Virginia, including school property; certain areas of airports; courthouses; places of worship while a meeting is being held (unless you have a “good and sufficient reason”); private property where firearms are prohibited; anywhere while under the influence of drugs or alcohol; businesses that sell alcohol for on-site consumption. 

*Please note that some municipalities have different rules and regulations regarding where it is legal to open and/or concealed carry. Be sure to check before you go!

Where Can I Learn More About Concealed Carry Laws in Virginia? 

You can visit the Virginia State Police’s website for the most up-to-date information on VA concealed carry and to learn more about how to apply for a Virginia license to carry. For the official laws regarding Virginia concealed carry permit reciprocity and regulations, you can read state laws here.