Washington Gun Laws - 2026 Complete Guide

Last verified: 2026-01-01 | Not legal advice - verify with your state AG

Legal Permit Required No Castle Doctrine Red Flag Law
⚠️ This is not legal advice. Gun laws change frequently. Always verify current laws with your state attorney general or a licensed firearms attorney before carrying.

Quick Reference: Washington Gun Laws

Open CarryLegal
Concealed CarryPermit Required
Permit RequiredYes - required
Permit Cost$48
Permit Validity5 years
Waiting Period10 days
Background CheckRequired
Castle Doctrine✕ No
Stand Your Ground✕ No
Red Flag Law✕ Yes (ERPO exists)
Magazine LimitNone
SuppressorsLegal (NFA rules apply)
NFA ItemsRestricted

Open Carry Laws in Washington

Open carry is legal in Washington for anyone who is legally allowed to possess a firearm. No permit is required to openly carry a holstered handgun or a long gun in public, subject to restricted location laws.

Concealed Carry Laws in Washington

Concealed carry in Washington requires a valid permit. Washington issues Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPL) through local law enforcement. Must be 21+, pass background check. Washington has a 10-day waiting period for firearm purchases.

Where You Cannot Carry in Washington

The following locations generally prohibit firearms carry in Washington. This list is not exhaustive - always verify current law before carrying in any location.

  • Schools
  • Government Buildings
  • Courts
  • Jails
  • Mental Health Facilities
  • Licensed Premises With Signs
  • Child Care Facilities
  • Fairgrounds

Federal law also prohibits carry in federal buildings, national parks ranger stations, and other federal facilities regardless of state law.

Getting a Washington CCW Permit

Washington issues Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPL) through local law enforcement. Must be 21+, pass background check. Washington has a 10-day waiting period for firearm purchases.

Official Washington Permit Information

CCW Reciprocity for Washington

States that honor your Washington permit (0)

None

Washington honors permits from (0)

None

View Full CCW Reciprocity Map
Reciprocity agreements change frequently. Always verify current reciprocity with the issuing state's law enforcement agency before traveling. Some states have additional requirements beyond permit reciprocity.
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Washington Gun Law Cheat Sheet - Free PDF

Download our one-page quick reference for Washington gun laws. Open carry rules, carry restrictions, permit info, and CCW reciprocity at a glance. Keep it in your range bag.

Frequently Asked Questions: Washington Gun Laws

Does Washington honor out-of-state permits?
No. Washington State does not recognize any out-of-state concealed carry permits.
Does Washington have a red flag law?
Yes. Washington has an Extreme Risk Protection Order law enacted in 2016.
What is the waiting period for gun purchases in Washington?
Washington requires a 10-day waiting period for firearm purchases.

Shooting Ranges in Washington

Find pistol ranges, rifle ranges, and indoor/outdoor shooting facilities in Washington. Filter by type, features, and location.

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Neighboring State Gun Laws

Idaho
Oregon