A Virginia firearm bill of sale is a proof of purchase document completed by a private seller and a buyer after a successful firearm transaction. This form details the type of firearm being sold, the price of the firearm, and the date of the transaction. Furthermore, there are buyer and seller disclosures that must be read and signed by the parties to ensure they are both permitted to transfer firearms. Virginia law does not require firearms to be registered, so a bill of sale is not legally required, but the parties may wish to keep one for their personal records.
- Firearm laws – Title 18.2, Chapter 7, Articles 4 to 7
- Background check required? Yes, private sellers must obtain verification from a licensed firearms dealer that the buyer has been submitted to a criminal background check and is not prohibited from purchasing firearms (§ 18.2-308.2:5).
- Permit required to purchase? No.
Concealed Carry Laws
Statute – Title 18.2, Chapter 7, Article 6.1
Aside from any individual mentioned in § 18.2-308(C), all persons wishing to carry a concealed weapon in the state of Virginia must obtain a concealed handgun permit (CHP). Applicants must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age, and the permit must be renewed every five (5) years. Individuals wishing to apply for a CHP must complete the following steps:
- Download and fill out the Application for Concealed Handgun Permit Form SP-248.
- Demonstrate competence with a handgun by completing any one (1) of the requisite training courses mentioned in § 18.2-308.02(B).
- Present themselves to the circuit court clerk of the county or city in which they reside.
- Hand over the application form, the certificate showing proof of handgun training/safety course, and all required fees (may not exceed $50 total).