West Virginia Statewide Rule
West Virginia Vehicle Carry of Firearms
Key Facts
- Permitless Vehicle
- Permitless vehicle carry for adults 21+ under 61-7-3
- Provisional Permits
- Provisional permits available at 18-20
- No State
- No state lockbox or unloaded requirement for adults
- Localities Preempted
- Localities preempted from extra vehicle rules
- School And
- School and courthouse limits still apply
Summary
West Virginia allows lawful adults to carry firearms in their motor vehicles without a permit, consistent with the state's permitless carry law and broad preemption of local rules.
(c) Any person may carry a concealed deadly weapon without a license therefor who is: (1) At least 18 years of age; (2) A United States citizen or legal resident thereof; (3) Not prohibited from possessing a firearm under the provisions of this section; and (4) Not prohibited from possessing a firearm under the provisions of 18 U. S. C. §922(g) or (n).
Full Breakdown
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.
Violations & Penalties
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to keep a handgun in my car in West Virginia?
Can a West Virginia city require firearms in vehicles to be locked or unloaded?
Sources
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