Is Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) Legal in Washington? (2026)
Partially — Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is legal with restrictions in Washington as of 2026.
Law changed in 2023: In 2023, Washington banned the sale of certain semi-automatic rifles. In 2025, the state began requiring a permit to purchase firearms. In 2026, legislation was introduced that would require gun owners to carry liability insurance.
Ad Space
Quick Answer
Washington requires a license to carry a concealed pistol under RCW 9.41.070. Permitless concealed carry is not legal, but open carry is allowed without a permit.
- Age restriction: 21 years or older to obtain concealed pistol license
What the Law Says
Washington law (RCW 9.41.070) requires a license to carry a concealed pistol. Permitless concealed carry is illegal, though open carry is allowed without a permit.
— Revised Code of Washington
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Permitless Carry Rules | Concealed carry requires a license; open carry allowed without a permit. |
| Permit Availability | Sales regulated under RCW 9.41; private sales require background checks. |
| Penalties | Unlicensed concealed carry is a gross misdemeanor or felony depending on circumstances. |
| Minimum Age | 21 years or older to obtain concealed pistol license. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
In 2023, Washington banned the sale of certain semi-automatic rifles. In 2025, the state began requiring a permit to purchase firearms. In 2026, legislation was introduced that would require gun owners to carry liability insurance.
Enforcement Reality
Washington requires a permit for concealed carry and does not have constitutional carry. Enforcement is consistent, and the state has been moving towards stricter gun control measures.
A common mistake is not understanding that a concealed pistol license is required to carry a loaded handgun in a vehicle. Another is being unaware of the state's ban on the sale of certain semi-automatic rifles and high-capacity magazines.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Washington. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is legal with restrictions in Washington. This activity is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Washington vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is fully legal in 23 states, restricted in 14, and illegal in 13. Washington falls in the RESTRICTED category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry):
Ad Space
Frequently Asked Questions
Is carrying a concealed weapon without a permit legal in Washington?
What are the restrictions on carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Washington?
What mistakes do people make with carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Washington?
What is the minimum age for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Washington?
Does the law on carrying a concealed weapon without a permit change at the Washington border?
Interactive Tools
See your overall risk score for Washington based on all your activities.
Get Risk Score →See how Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) laws change if you relocate from Washington.
Relocation Analyzer →Check if Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) laws change at state borders on your route.
Plan Your Trip →Get Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) Legal Updates
Get notified when constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) laws change in any state.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Washington Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in Washington — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.
More Washington Legality Guides
Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) in Other States
Ad Space