Virginia Concealed Carry

Virginia is one of the many states in the United States that allows its citizens to carry concealed firearms. If you’re a resident of Virginia and interested in obtaining a concealed carry license, the process is relatively straightforward. Here’s a quick guide on how to get your concealed carry license in Virginia.

1. Meet the eligibility requirements: Before you start the process, you need to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. You must be at least 21 years old, a legal resident of Virginia, and not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. You cannot have any felony convictions, have been found guilty of a violent misdemeanor in the past three years, or have a history of mental illness or drug addiction.
2. Complete a firearms safety course: The next step is to complete a firearms safety course that meets Virginia’s requirements. The course should cover topics such as firearms safety, basic firearms handling, and Virginia’s laws on the use of deadly force. The course must be taken in-person or and must be taught by a certified instructor. Listed below are examples of what they are looking for when reviewing your application
   • Completing any hunter education or hunter safety course approved by the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries or a similar agency of another state;
   • Completing any National Rifle Association firearms safety or training course;
   • Completing any firearms safety or training course or class available to the general public offered by a law-enforcement agency, junior college, college, or private or public institution or organization or firearms training school utilizing instructors certified by the National Rifle Association or the Department of Criminal Justice Services;
   • Completing any law-enforcement firearms safety or training course or class offered for security guards, investigators, special deputies, or any division or subdivision of law enforcement or security enforcement;
   • Presenting evidence of equivalent experience with a firearm through participation in organized shooting competition or current military service or proof of an honorable discharge from any branch of the armed services;
   • Obtaining or previously having held a license to carry a firearm in this Commonwealth or a locality thereof, unless such license has been revoked for cause;
   • Completing any in-person firearms training or safety course or class conducted by a state-certified or National Rifle Association-certified firearms instructor;
   • Completing any governmental police agency firearms training course and qualifying to carry a firearm in the course of normal police duties;
   • Completing any other firearms training which the court deems adequate
3. Get fingerprinted: As part of the application process, you’ll need to get fingerprinted. You can get fingerprinted at your local law enforcement agency or through a private vendor. You’ll likely need to pay a fee for this service. Whenever you get fingerprinted, it’s always a good idea to get at least one extra copy in-case the first ones aren’t accepted.
4. Submit your application: Once you’ve completed the firearms safety course and have gotten fingerprinted, you can submit an application for a concealed carry license. The application can be obtained online or from your local circuit court. You’ll need to provide personal information, including your name, address, and contact information, as well as information about your firearms safety course.
5. Wait for approval: After you’ve submitted your application and been fingerprinted, you’ll need to wait for approval. The circuit court will review your application and make a determination on whether you meet the eligibility requirements. If your application is approved, you’ll receive your concealed carry license in the mail. Once you receive your license, it is highly recommended that it be laminated to prevent damage while carrying it.
6. Renew your license: Your concealed carry license is valid for 5 years. You’ll need to renew your license before it expires to continue carrying concealed. The renewal process is similar to the initial application process and requires you to complete a firearms safety course, submit an application, and get fingerprinted again.

Obtaining a concealed carry license in Virginia is a straightforward process that involves meeting the eligibility requirements, completing a firearms safety course, getting fingerprinted, submitting an application, and waiting for approval. If you’re interested in carrying concealed in Virginia, make sure you follow these steps to ensure a smooth and successful application process.