Frequently Asked Questions
The United States Concealed Carry Association is a great resource for checking reciprocity and reviewing the laws in states to which you may be traveling.
There's a good overview on the Virginia State Police website. You can read the law itself here: Code of Virginia, Title 18.2, Chapter 7, Article 6.1
Any person 21 years of age or older may apply in writing to the clerk of the circuit court of the county or city in which he or she resides, or if he is a member of the United States Armed Forces, the county or city in which he is domiciled, for a five-year permit to carry a concealed handgun. There is no requirement as to the length of time an applicant for a Concealed Handgun Permit must have been a resident or domiciliary of the county or city where he or she resides.
Virginia Resident Concealed Handgun Permits are issued by the circuit court of the county or city in which the applicant resides. Please contact the applicable court for specific instruction on the application process.
vsp.virginia.gov/services/firearms/resident-concealed-handgun-permits
Download/Print Application for Concealed Handgun Permit Form SP-248
The United States Concealed Carry Association is a great resource for checking reciprocity and reviewing the laws in states to which you may be traveling.
You should bring your ID, a pen, and a notebook. Virginia does not require a shooting qualification. If you have a handgun, leave it at home.
Carrying a loaded gun is not meant to bring some excitement into your life. When you carry a concealed handgun, you take on an extra burden and a significant responsibility to yourself, your family and your community. You carry the means to protect life and deal out death. You will be held to a higher standard of conduct.
If you cannot accept this responsibility, adapt your lifestyle, and make a significant commitment to training, you should not carry a handgun. You will be a risk to yourself and those around you.
