Can You Carry a Concealed Weapon in Virginia?
Contents
About Concealed Carry in Virginia
Concealed carry, also known as carrying a concealed weapon (CCW), is the practice of carrying a firearm or other weapon in a concealed manner. In Virginia, the law regarding concealed carry is outlined in Title 18.2, Chapter 7 of the Code of Virginia. As of 2022, Virginia has specific laws regarding who can carry a concealed weapon, where they can carry it, and under what circumstances.
Who Can Carry a Concealed Weapon in Virginia?
To carry a concealed weapon in Virginia, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a resident of Virginia: You must have lived in the state for at least six months prior to applying for a concealed handgun permit (CHP).
- Be at least 21 years old: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a CHP.
- Not have been convicted of a felony: You must not have been convicted of a felony in Virginia or any other state.
- Not be under indictment for a felony: You must not be currently under indictment for a felony in Virginia or any other state.
- Not be a fugitive from justice: You must not have an outstanding warrant for your arrest in Virginia or any other state.
- Not be judged mentally incompetent: You must not have been judged mentally incompetent to carry a weapon.
- Not have been subject to a restraining order: You must not have a restraining order issued against you that prohibits you from owning or possessing a firearm.
- Pass a background check: You must undergo a background check through the Virginia State Police to ensure you do not have a disqualifying criminal or mental health record.
Concealed Handgun Permits in Virginia
To carry a concealed weapon in Virginia, you must obtain a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) from the Virginia State Police. Here are the steps to follow:
- Apply online: You can apply online through the Virginia State Police website.
- Fill out the application: The application will require you to provide personal and identifying information, as well as provide proof of identity and residency.
- Pay the fee: The application fee is currently $50, with an additional $50 fee for processing.
- Pass the background check: The Virginia State Police will conduct a background check to ensure you meet the requirements for a CHP.
- Complete the CHP course: If you have never had a CHP in Virginia, you must complete a CHP course approved by the Virginia Department of State Police.
Where Can You Carry a Concealed Weapon in Virginia?
In Virginia, you can carry a concealed weapon:
- On foot: You can carry a concealed weapon on foot on public streets, sidewalks, and other areas open to the public.
- In a vehicle: You can carry a concealed weapon in a vehicle, but only if the vehicle is driven by you and you have a valid permit.
- In buildings: You can carry a concealed weapon in buildings that are owned or leased by you, but you must have written permission from the property owner or lessee to carry the weapon.
- At public gatherings: You can carry a concealed weapon to public gatherings, such as concerts, festivals, or sporting events, but you must follow the rules of the event and the venue.
- On public transportation: You can carry a concealed weapon on public transportation, such as buses or trains, but you must follow the rules of the transportation provider.
However, there are certain places where you cannot carry a concealed weapon in Virginia:
- Schools: You cannot carry a concealed weapon on school property, including schools, daycare centers, and school buses.
- Government buildings: You cannot carry a concealed weapon in government buildings, including courthouses, city or county offices, and government agencies.
- Corrections facilities: You cannot carry a concealed weapon in corrections facilities, including jails, prisons, and halfway houses.
- Polling stations: You cannot carry a concealed weapon to polling stations or during voting hours.
Special Considerations for Virginia Concealed Carry
There are certain special considerations to keep in mind when carrying a concealed weapon in Virginia:
- Open Carry: Virginia does not have an open carry law, but you can still carry an unloaded firearm openly in your vehicle.
- Parking Lot Carry: You cannot carry a concealed weapon in a parking lot, except in your own vehicle or with written permission from the property owner.
- Trespassing: If you carry a concealed weapon onto someone else’s property without permission, you can be charged with trespassing.
- Child Safety: If you are carrying a concealed weapon near a child, you are responsible for ensuring the child’s safety and preventing access to the weapon.
Table: Concealed Carry Laws in Virginia
| Location | Permitted | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Public streets and sidewalks | ||
| Vehicles | Only if driven by permit holder | |
| Buildings | Only with written permission from property owner or lessee | |
| Public gatherings | Follow event and venue rules | |
| Public transportation | Follow transportation provider rules | |
| Schools | ||
| Government buildings | ||
| Corrections facilities | ||
| Polling stations | ||
| Parking lots | Except in your own vehicle or with written permission | |
| Trespassing | Can be charged with trespassing |
Conclusion
In conclusion, carrying a concealed weapon in Virginia requires careful consideration and adherence to state laws. By understanding who can carry a concealed weapon, how to obtain a Concealed Handgun Permit, where you can carry a concealed weapon, and special considerations for concealed carry, you can ensure compliance with Virginia law and responsible gun ownership. Remember to always prioritize safety and responsible gun ownership when carrying a concealed weapon in Virginia.
