Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit Rules and Statewide Standards

Virginia is a shall-issue state for concealed handgun permits. Applicants 21 or older apply at the circuit court of residence, demonstrate firearms competency, and pass disqualifier checks under Code 18.2-308.09. Permits are valid five years and recognized statewide. Code 18.2-308.012 prohibits concealed carry while consuming alcohol in restaurants and bars. Code 15.2-915 prevents localities from adding licensing or training requirements beyond state law, though restrictions in courthouses, schools, and Capitol grounds remain enforceable.

Carrying a concealed handgun without a permit violates Code 18.2-308 and is a Class 1 misdemeanor for a first offense; subsequent offenses escalate to Class 6 felonies. Carrying in prohibited places like courthouses is a Class 1 misdemeanor.