Washington Gun Laws
- Background check required? – Yes[1]
- Permit required to purchase? – Yes[2]
- Permit required to concealed carry? – Yes[3]
- Firearm Laws – RCW Title 9, Chapter 9.41
- Concealed Carry Laws – RCW 9.41.050 and 9.41.070
Washington State Concealed Carry Permit
A person can carry a concealed firearm only if they have a concealed pistol license (CPL).
To apply for a CPL, residents 21 years old or older must complete the following steps[4]:
- Obtain and fill out a CPL Application from the local law enforcement agency (LEA).
- Submit the application and present a valid driver’s license or ID at the local LEA.
- Submit fingerprints to the LEA, who will perform a full background check.
- Pay applicable fees.
- Unless prohibited from carrying a firearm, the state will issue a CPL within 30 days.[5]