How to Get a Gun Permit in Virginia?
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for a gun permit in Virginia, it’s essential to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements. According to the Virginia State Police, the following individuals are eligible to apply:
• US Citizens: You must be a United States citizen to apply for a gun permit in Virginia.
• Resident: You must be a resident of Virginia to apply for a gun permit.
• Age: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a handgun permit. For rifle and shotgun permits, there is no minimum age requirement.
• No Felony Convictions: You must not have been convicted of a felony in Virginia or any other state.
• No Misdemeanor Convictions: You must not have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of violence in Virginia or any other state within the last 5 years.
• No Protective Orders: You must not have a protective order in effect against you.
• Mental Health: You must not have been adjudicated as mentally incapacitated or mentally ill, or be currently undergoing treatment for mental illness.
Application Process
To apply for a gun permit in Virginia, follow these steps:
Contents
**Step 1: Obtain the Necessary Documents**
• Identification: You will need to provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
• Birth Certificate: You will need to provide a certified copy of your birth certificate.
• Social Security Card: You will need to provide a copy of your social security card.
• Residency Proof: You will need to provide proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
**Step 2: Complete the Application Form**
• Handgun Application: For a handgun permit, you will need to complete a Virginia State Police Handgun Application (ST-20).
• Rifle and Shotgun Application: For a rifle and shotgun permit, you will need to complete a Virginia State Police Rifle and Shotgun Application (ST-22).
**Step 3: Provide Fingerprints**
• Fingerprinting: You will need to provide fingerprints on the application form. You can have your fingerprints taken at a local law enforcement agency or a private fingerprinting company.
**Step 4: Submit the Application and Supporting Documents**
• In-Person Submission: You can submit your application and supporting documents in person at a Virginia State Police agency or a local law enforcement agency.
• Mail Submission: You can also submit your application and supporting documents by mail to the Virginia State Police.
Fees
The fee for a gun permit in Virginia is as follows:
• Handgun Permit: The fee for a handgun permit is $30.
• Rifle and Shotgun Permit: The fee for a rifle and shotgun permit is $15.
Processing Time
The processing time for a gun permit in Virginia varies depending on the workload of the Virginia State Police. On average, it takes 45-60 days to process a handgun permit application. For rifle and shotgun permits, the processing time is typically shorter, taking around 10-15 days.
Required Training
In Virginia, you are not required to complete any training courses to obtain a gun permit. However, it is recommended that you take a firearms safety course to learn proper handling and safety procedures.
What to Expect During the Permit Process
During the permit process, you can expect the following:
• Background Check: The Virginia State Police will conduct a background check on you to ensure you are eligible to possess a firearm.
• Review of Application: The Virginia State Police will review your application and supporting documents to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements.
• Interview: You may be required to attend an interview with the Virginia State Police to verify your identity and answer any questions they may have.
Consequences of Having a Gun Permit in Virginia
If you are found to be in violation of any of the eligibility requirements or fail to disclose information on your application, you may be subject to:
• Permit Revocation: Your gun permit may be revoked.
• Fines: You may be fined up to $100.
• Criminal Charges: You may be charged with a misdemeanor or felony crime, depending on the severity of the violation.
Conclusion
Obtaining a gun permit in Virginia is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail and compliance with eligibility requirements. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth application process and successfully obtain your gun permit in Virginia.
Table: Gun Permit Application Requirements
| Document | Handgun Permit | Rifle and Shotgun Permit |
|---|---|---|
| Identification | ||
| Birth Certificate | ||
| Social Security Card | ||
| Residency Proof | ||
| Fingerprints |
Table: Gun Permit Fees
| Type of Permit | Fee |
|---|---|
| Handgun Permit | $30 |
| Rifle and Shotgun Permit | $15 |
Note: Fees are subject to change, please check with the Virginia State Police for the most up-to-date information.
