Washington Gun Laws
If you’re looking to obtain a legal firearm in the state of Washington, here are some things about the permit process you should know:
Washington is a shall-issue state, with a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) issued at the local level by the sheriff or police department.
Is there a waiting period to buy a handgun in Washington?
Yes. Washington has a 10-day waiting period for purchasing all firearms.
Do Handguns need to be registered in Washington?
No. However, retail gun dealers must record and report all pistol and semiautomatic rifle sales to local police/sheriff and to the state department of licensing.
Is a permit required to purchase a firearm in Washington?
No. There is no permit to purchase a firearm in Washington. Purchasers of semiautomatic rifles are required to show proof of attending a firearms-safety-training program.
Who is eligible to obtain a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) in Washington?
Any Washington resident at least 21 years of age can apply for a Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPL).
Is firearms training a requirement in Washington for a Concealed Pistol License (CPL)?
No, a firearms-training course is not required for a Washington Concealed Pistol License (CPL).
What are the requirements to obtain a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) in Washington?
Applicants for a Washington Concealed Pistol License (CPL) must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a legal resident of the United States
- Reside in Washington state
- Meet federal law requirements
What are the steps to obtain a Concealed Pistol License in Washington?
- Obtain an application from your local city police department or sheriff’s office or download and complete an application from the Washington State Department of Licensing website gov.
- Submit the completed application to your local law-enforcement office along with proof of residence, valid photo ID, and fee. You will be fingerprinted when you submit the application. A permit is issued within 30 days if approved.
How much does a Washington Concealed Pistol License (CPL) cost?
A Washington Concealed Pistol License (CPL) costs $36, plus a fingerprint fee. Renewals are $32.
Does Washington recognize pistol permits from other states?
Yes. Washington honors concealed-carry permits from other states that meet specific Washington-state requirements.
Is Washington a Constitutional Carry state?
No. Washington is not a Constitutional Carry state.
Is Washington an Open Carry state?
Yes. Washington is an open-carry state for anyone at least 21 years old, who is legally allowed to possess a firearm. However, some publics areas are off-limits.
Is Washington a Stand Your Ground state?
No. Washington is not a Stand Your Ground state. However, it is a Castle Doctrine state.
Are AR-style and other semi-auto rifles legal in Washington?
Yes, semi-auto rifles are legal in Washington for persons aged 21 years or older. Semi-auto rifles are subject to a 10-day waiting period. However, the manufacture, distribution, and sale of assault-style firearms is prohibited.
Are standard-capacity magazines allowed in Washington?
Yes. There are no magazine-capacity restrictions in Washington, and possession of higher-capacity magazines is not restricted. However, the manufacture, distribution, and sale of magazines that have a capacity of more than 10 rounds is prohibited.
Does Washington have gun-storage laws?
Yes. Washington gun-storage law states that any gun owner is legally responsible for keeping their firearm out of the possession of prohibited individuals.
Is Washington a Red Flag state?
Yes. Washington has a red-flag law. An immediate family member or law-enforcement office or agency may file a petition requesting that the court issue an extreme-risk protection order prohibiting a person from having in his or her custody or control, purchasing, possessing, or receiving a firearm.
