Newport News, VA Firearms: Firearms in Vehicles (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Source: Virginia Legislative Information System →

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Virginia state rule: Newport News does not have a local ordinance for firearms in vehicles. This topic is governed by Virginia state law and applies uniformly across the state.

Summary

Virginia Code 18.2-308 lets adults transport firearms in personal vehicles, with concealed handguns in a closed compartment lawful without a permit; localities are preempted by Code 15.2-915.

Full Breakdown

Under Code 18.2-308, concealed carry of a handgun in a vehicle is unlawful unless the carrier holds a Virginia concealed handgun permit or fits within an exemption. A statutory exemption allows secured transportation if the handgun is placed in a personal, private motor vehicle and concealed inside a container or compartment such as a glove box, console, or locked case. Open carry of handguns and lawfully possessed long guns inside vehicles is generally lawful for adults who are not prohibited possessors. Code 15.2-915 preempts localities from adding extra vehicle-carry rules, ensuring uniform statewide standards aside from federal facilities, schools, courthouses, and other statutorily restricted places.

Violations & Fines

Carrying a concealed handgun in a vehicle without a permit and outside the container exception is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Code 18.2-308, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500. Subsequent violations within five years are Class 6 felonies.

Newport News, VA Firearms: Firearms in Vehicles (2026)

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Sources & Official References

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