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District of Columbia Statewide Rule

DC Firearm Transport Rules for Vehicles

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across District of Columbia (2026)

Key Facts

Governing law
DC Code 22-4504.02
Firearm state
Unloaded during transport
Accessibility
Not accessible from passenger compartment
No separate compartment
Locked container required
Exemption
Concealed-carry licensees on person
Last verified: July 31, 2026

Summary

In the District of Columbia, a firearm transported by vehicle must be unloaded and kept inaccessible from the passenger compartment; if the vehicle has no separate compartment, the firearm or ammunition must ride in a locked container other than the glove box or console.

(a) A person may not transport a firearm unless the person: ... (2) Is transporting the firearm for a lawful purpose from a place where the person may lawfully possess and carry the firearm to another place where the person may lawfully possess and carry the firearm ... (b) If the transportation of the firearm is by a vehicle, the firearm shall be unloaded, and neither the firearm nor any ammunition being transported shall be readily accessible or directly accessible from the passenger compartment of the transporting vehicle.

View official code

Full Breakdown

DC Code 22-4504.02 lets you transport a firearm only if you are not otherwise barred by law, are moving it for a lawful purpose between two places where you may lawfully possess and carry it, and follow this section's rules. By vehicle, the gun must be unloaded and neither it nor the ammunition may be readily or directly accessible from the passenger compartment. A car without a separate compartment from the driver's area must carry the firearm or ammunition in a locked container - not the glove compartment or console. Concealed-carry pistol licensees carrying on their person are exempt. The Metropolitan Police Department enforces DC's carry and transport laws.

Violations & Penalties

Transporting a firearm outside these rules, or carrying a pistol without a DC license, is a criminal offense prosecuted by the Metropolitan Police Department and can bring felony charges and imprisonment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep a loaded gun in my car in DC?
No. Under DC Code 22-4504.02 a firearm transported by vehicle must be unloaded, and neither it nor any ammunition may be readily or directly accessible from the passenger compartment.
What if my car has no separate compartment from the driver's area?
The firearm or ammunition must be in a locked container - not the glove compartment or console - and the firearm must be unloaded.
Does this apply to concealed-carry licensees?
No. The vehicle-transport requirements do not apply to a person carrying a concealed pistol on their person under a valid DC concealed carry pistol license.

Sources

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