Training Requirements

Under § 18.2-308.02(B), the court requires proof that you demonstrated competence with a handgun in person. Accepted options include:

1. DWR-approved (or other state) hunter education course
2. NRA or USCCA firearms safety/training course
3. Public class by law enforcement, college, or organization using NRA/USCCA/DCJS-certified instructors
4. Law-enforcement/security guard firearms course
5. Organized shooting competition, current military service, or honorable discharge
6. Prior Virginia carry license (not revoked for cause)
7. In-person course by a state-, NRA-, or USCCA-certified instructor
8. Police agency firearms course with duty qualification
9. Other training the court deems adequate

Proof: certificate copy, instructor affidavit, or other documentation. Proof of competence does not expire.

Heads up: a change is brewing (not in effect yet)

2026 HB 916 (Chapter 438) would broaden qualifying courses and remove the NRA/USCCA requirement, but only if reenacted by the 2027 General Assembly (Richmond Sunlight). VSP's site already shows the proposed wording (VSP); the Code text controls.

Recommended gear

For in-person qualification and range days, these basics are worth having (we never link firearms or ammunition):

IWB holster

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

Shop holsters on Amazon →

Gun safe / lockbox

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

Shop gun safes on Amazon →

Range bag & eye/ear

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

Shop range gear on Amazon →

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