Virginia’s concealed carry laws are designed to regulate how and where individuals may carry concealed handguns, with specific requirements for permits, eligibility, and restrictions. Here’s what you need to know about concealed carry in Virginia for 2025.
Concealed Carry Permit Basics
Concealed carry of a handgun in Virginia is legal for residents who obtain a Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) and for non-residents who hold a valid permit from any state recognized by Virginia. The minimum age to apply for a concealed handgun permit is 21.
Virginia is a “shall-issue” state, meaning that as long as applicants meet the legal requirements—such as completing a firearms training or safety course and passing a background check—the court is required to issue the permit.
Open Carry and Constitutional Carry
Open carry of a firearm is permitted in Virginia for anyone who is at least 18 years old and legally entitled to possess a firearm, and no permit is required for open carry. However, Virginia does not allow constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) for handguns; a permit is required to carry a handgun concealed.
Permitting and Training Requirements
To apply for a concealed handgun permit, you must be at least 21 years old, provide proof of residency, and demonstrate competence with a handgun.
Acceptable proof of competence includes completion of an in-person firearms safety or training course, or proof of military service or honorable discharge. The permit is valid for five years and can be renewed by submitting a new application and proof of continued eligibility.
Reciprocity and Non-Resident Permits
Virginia honors concealed handgun permits from all other states, allowing non-residents with valid permits to carry in Virginia. Conversely, Virginia residents with a CHP can carry in many other states, depending on reciprocity agreements.
Recent changes include the restoration of reciprocity between Virginia and Pennsylvania, which was reestablished in June 2025 after a seven-year moratorium.
Where You Can and Cannot Carry
With a valid concealed handgun permit, you may carry in most public places, including bars and restaurants that serve alcohol—provided you do not consume alcohol while carrying.
However, you may not carry at roadside rest areas, and certain cities and counties have additional restrictions, especially regarding assault firearms and public parks or government buildings. “No Weapons Allowed” signs do not carry the force of law except in specifically prohibited locations.
Virginia law also allows you to carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle with a permit. Without a permit, handguns must be secured in a closed compartment or container within the vehicle.
Special Considerations
Virginia has a “red flag” law, which allows law enforcement or a Commonwealth’s attorney to petition a court to temporarily prohibit a person from possessing or purchasing firearms if they are deemed a risk to themselves or others. The person must surrender their concealed handgun permit during the order, which can last up to 180 days.
Recent and Proposed Legislative Changes
As of early 2025, a bill was introduced to allow permitless concealed carry of handguns anywhere open carry is permitted. However, this bill (HB 2202) is pending and has not yet become law. Virginia law also requires background checks for all private gun sales, and handguns do not need to be registered.
Key Takeaways
Permit Required: A concealed handgun permit is required to carry a handgun concealed in Virginia.
Minimum Age: You must be at least 21 years old to apply for a concealed handgun permit.
Training: Proof of firearms training or safety course completion is required.
Reciprocity: Virginia recognizes out-of-state permits, and Virginia permits are recognized in many other states.
Restrictions: There are specific places where carrying is prohibited, and local ordinances may impose additional restrictions.
Red Flag Law: Virginia has a process to temporarily restrict firearm possession for individuals deemed a risk.
No Constitutional Carry: Permitless concealed carry is not allowed under current law.
Understanding these laws will help you exercise your rights responsibly and avoid legal complications while carrying a concealed handgun in Virginia.
Sources:
-https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/resources/ccw_reciprocity_map/va-gun-laws/
-https://giffords.org/lawcenter/state-laws/concealed-carry-in-virginia/
-https://www.portsmouthva.gov/227/Concealed-Handgun-Permits
-https://vcdl-lis.org
