Virginia concealed carry laws, backed by the statute
At a glance
- Carry rule
- Shall-issue permit
- Minimum age
- 21
- Non-resident permit valid here?
- Yes
- Statute
- Va. Code § 18.2-308.014
Carrying in Virginia
Virginia is a shall-issue state. Adults 21 and older who meet the requirements can get a permit.
If you pass the background check, finish any required training, and pay the fees, the state must issue your permit.
Training requirement for residents can be met with an online course from an approved provider.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-308.014. Virginia State Police. Reviewed Q3 2026.
Does a non-resident permit work in Virginia?
A non-resident permit is a carry permit issued by a state you do not live in.
Yes. Virginia recognizes a valid out-of-state permit under Va. Code § 18.2-308.014. The state's own rules about where and how you carry still apply to you.
Getting Virginia's own permit
Apply through Virginia and meet the listed requirements. If you qualify, the state must issue the permit.
Common questions
- Do I need a permit to carry in Virginia?
- Yes. Virginia requires a carry permit. The minimum age is 21.
- Does Virginia honor out-of-state permits?
- Yes. Virginia recognizes a valid out-of-state permit under Va. Code § 18.2-308.014.
- Where can I check Virginia's official rules?
- Check Virginia State Police. The controlling law is Va. Code § 18.2-308.014.
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Check your state's rules →Sources and verification
- VA: Va. Code § 18.2-308.014. Virginia State Police.
Recognition and carry-law data compiled from each state's statutes and official Attorney General, State Police, or Department of Public Safety reciprocity pages. Reviewed quarterly. Last reviewed: Q3 2026. We review and update this information about once a quarter. Laws change between reviews, so verify with the destination state before you travel or apply. Read how we verify our information, including our public corrections log.