concealed carry in washington

Home Concealed Carry in Washington (WA) – Overview

Concealed Carry in Washington (WA) – Overview

Summary

Permit required: Yes. Washington generally requires a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) to carry a concealed pistol outside your home/business.
Minimum age: 21 to obtain a CPL (and to generally carry a pistol in public).
Duty to inform: No general duty to proactively inform; you must present your CPL if demanded and should answer truthfully if asked.
Where you can/can’t carry: Many public places are legal unless specifically prohibited (e.g., certain school areas, courts/jails, secured airport areas, and other “restricted” locations).

Washington issues concealed carry permits as a Concealed Pistol License (CPL). Applications are handled through local issuing authorities (typically your local police department or county sheriff), but the rules are set by state law. The state is broadly considered shall-issue for eligible applicants, meaning the issuing authority generally must issue the CPL unless a statutory disqualifier applies (including being under 21).

Washington is not permitless/constitutional carry for concealed pistols outside the home or fixed place of business. Carrying a concealed pistol without a CPL (outside those limited locations) is generally prohibited, and Washington also restricts having aloaded pistol in a vehicle without a CPL (with specific conditions even for CPL holders).

For visitors, Washington may recognize certainout-of-state permits if the other state meets Washington’s reciprocity requirements (including fingerprint-based background checks and minimum age standards).When traveling, especially in vehicles, hotels, or shared spaces, prioritize secure storage (locked container/safe, firearm under your control when required). For extra privacy and to reduce digital tracking risk around key fobs/phones during transport or in a hotel room, some travelers also use Faraday-protected SLNT bags to isolate devices while they secure valuables.