How to Get a Concealed Weapons Permit in Washington State
If you are a resident of Washington state and want to carry a concealed weapon, you need to obtain a concealed pistol license (CPL) from the Washington State Patrol. In this article, we will guide you through the process of getting a concealed weapons permit in Washington state.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for a concealed weapons permit, you must meet the eligibility requirements set by the state. You must:
• Be at least 21 years old
• Be a resident of Washington state
• Not have been convicted of a felony, or any crime involving the use of a firearm or other dangerous weapon
• Not have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence
• Not have any outstanding warrants or unpaid court fines
• Not have been dishonorably discharged from the military
• Not have a restraining order against you that was issued due to a domestic violence incident
Application Process
To apply for a concealed weapons permit, you will need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
You will need to gather the following documents to apply for a concealed weapons permit:
• A valid Washington state ID or driver’s license
• A copy of your birth certificate
• A copy of your Social Security card
• Proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
• A copy of your certificate of completion for a Washington state-approved firearms safety course
Step 2: Fill Out the Application
You can fill out the application online or in person at a Washington State Patrol office. You will need to provide the following information:
• Your name and contact information
• Your date of birth
• Your social security number
• Your Washington state ID or driver’s license number
• The name and address of your landlord or property manager (if you are renting)
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
The application fee for a concealed weapons permit in Washington state is currently $57 for a 5-year license. You can pay by check or money order, or you can pay online using a credit or debit card.
Step 4: Take a Background Check
After submitting your application, you will be required to undergo a background check. This check will be conducted by the Washington State Patrol and will review your criminal history and any outstanding warrants or unpaid court fines.
Step 5: Take a Firearm Safety Course
If you have not already done so, you will need to take a Washington state-approved firearms safety course before your application can be processed. This course will cover topics such as firearm safety, laws, and techniques.
Step 6: Wait for Approval
After your application has been processed and your background check has been completed, you will be notified of your approval or denial. If your application is approved, you will receive a temporary permit that is valid for 90 days.
Step 7: Get Your Permit
Once you have received your temporary permit, you can pick up your permanent permit at a Washington State Patrol office.
Fees and Requirements
Here is a table summarizing the fees and requirements for obtaining a concealed weapons permit in Washington state:
| Fees | Amount | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | $57 | Proof of residency, certificate of completion for a Washington state-approved firearms safety course, valid Washington state ID or driver’s license |
| Background check | N/A | |
| Firearms safety course | N/A | |
| Total cost | $57 |
Important Deadlines
Here are some important deadlines to keep in mind when applying for a concealed weapons permit in Washington state:
• 90-day temporary permit: If your application is approved, you will receive a 90-day temporary permit that is valid until your permanent permit is issued.
• Background check: You will need to complete your background check within 14 days of submitting your application.
• Firearm safety course: You will need to complete your firearm safety course within 6 months of submitting your application.
Conclusion
Getting a concealed weapons permit in Washington state requires careful attention to detail and a willingness to follow the law. By understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and fees and requirements, you can ensure a smooth and successful application process. Remember to keep your application documents and temporary permit in a safe and secure location until your permanent permit is issued.
