Virginia Vehicle Carry Rules for Handguns and Long Guns

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.

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.