VirginiaCCW Guide

Richmond, Virginia skyline at sunset over the James River

Carry Smart, Virginia!

Your friendly, source-cited guide to the Virginia concealed handgun permit.

How to Apply Find an Instructor

Where do you want to start?

Aerial view of downtown Richmond and a bridge over the James River

Man with ear protection practicing with a handgun at an indoor range

Blue Ridge Mountains covered in spring forest

Shenandoah River winding below the Blue Ridge Mountains

Foggy valley among the Blue Ridge Mountains at sunset

Richmond skyline seen across the James River

Close-up of a paper shooting target with scoring rings

Find an Instructor

Tactical belt with holster laid out on camouflage fabric

Important: Virginia requires that handgun competence be demonstrated in person (§ 18.2-308.02(B)). Online-only classes do not qualify. Find an in-person instructor

The 30-second version

Minimum age: 21. Permit valid 5 years (VSP).
Apply to the circuit court clerk where you live, in writing or electronically (§ 18.2-308.02).
Proof of in-person competence required; it never expires.
Virginia does not have permitless (constitutional) concealed carry.

Recommended gear

Carry and storage basics we recommend looking at (we never link firearms or ammunition):

Handgun secured in a belt holster

IWB holster

Inside-the-waistband holster with full trigger-guard coverage.

Shop holsters on Amazon →

Heavy steel vault doors

Gun safe / lockbox

Quick-access biometric or keypad safe for home or travel storage.

Shop gun safes on Amazon →

Green circular target with bullet holes at an indoor range

Range bag & eye/ear

Eye and ear protection, plus a bag to keep range day organized.

Shop range gear on Amazon →

Tactical belt with holster laid out on camouflage fabric

Cleaning kit

A basic rod, brush and patch kit for after the range.

Shop cleaning kits on Amazon →

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Questions folks ask

Can I take a Virginia concealed carry class online?

No. Virginia Code § 18.2-308.02(B) requires that the applicant demonstrate competence with a handgun in person. Online-only courses do not satisfy the requirement.

Does Virginia have constitutional carry?

No. As of October 2026 Under § 18.2-308(A), carrying a concealed handgun without a permit is a crime unless a statutory exception applies.

How long is a Virginia concealed handgun permit valid?

Five years.