District of Columbia Statewide Rule

District of Columbia Concealed Pistol License Rules

Significant RestrictionsApplies statewide across District of Columbia (2026)

Key Facts

Governing statute: DC Code § 22-4506
Issuing agency: Metropolitan Police Department
License term: Up to 2 years
Issuance standard: Shall-issue since Wrenn (2017)
Unlicensed carry penalty: Up to 5 years, felony

Last verified: July 31, 2026

Summary

The District of Columbia requires a concealed pistol license from the Metropolitan Police Department under DC Official Code § 22-4506, valid up to two years. After Wrenn v. District of Columbia (2017), DC dropped its "good reason" test and now issues on a shall-issue basis to qualified applicants.

The Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department ("Chief") may, upon the application of a person having a bona fide residence or place of business within the District of Columbia ... issue a license to such person to carry a pistol concealed upon his or her person within the District of Columbia for not more than 2 years from the date of issue, if it appears that the applicant has good reason to fear injury to his or her person or property or has any other proper reason for carrying a pistol, and that he or she is a suitable person to be so licensed.

View official code

Full Breakdown

The Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department issues concealed pistol licenses to residents, and to non-residents holding a valid out-of-state permit, who register the pistol and complete firearms training, including range instruction. Licenses run for up to two years, and the Chief may limit the geographic area, circumstances, or times a license is effective. The statute's "good reason to fear injury" requirement was struck down in Wrenn v. District of Columbia (2017), so MPD now licenses any suitable, qualified applicant. Only concealed carry is licensed; open carry is not permitted. Carrying without a license is a felony under § 22-4504.

Violations & Penalties

Carrying a pistol outside your home or business without a valid license violates DC Official Code § 22-4504(a), punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment plus a fine, and up to 10 years for repeat offenders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does DC still require a "good reason" to get a carry license?

No. The "good reason" requirement in § 22-4506 was struck down in Wrenn v. District of Columbia (2017). MPD now issues to any suitable, qualified applicant who meets training and registration rules.

Can I open carry a pistol in DC?

No. DC licenses only concealed carry under § 22-4506. Open carry of a pistol is not permitted, and carrying without a license is a felony under § 22-4504.

How long is a DC concealed carry license valid?

Up to two years from the date of issue, per DC Official Code § 22-4506. The Chief may also limit the geographic area, circumstances, or times the license is effective.

Sources

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