West Virginia Vehicle Carry of Firearms

Under W. Va. Code 61-7-3 and 61-7-4, persons aged 21 and older who are not prohibited from possessing firearms may carry a concealed deadly weapon, including in a motor vehicle, without a license. Provisional permits exist for those 18 to 20. The vehicle is treated similarly to other lawful carry locations, and there is no separate state requirement to keep handguns unloaded or in a locked container for ordinary motorists. Localities cannot impose additional vehicle carry restrictions because W. Va. Code 8-12-5a preempts municipal and county firearm regulation. Drivers should still be aware of restrictions on school grounds, courthouses, and other prohibited places under W. Va. Code 61-7-11a.

Carrying in a vehicle by a prohibited person, or into a posted prohibited place such as a school zone, may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony under W. Va. Code 61-7-3 or 61-7-11a.