Washington is generally considered a gun-friendly state, but that doesn’t mean you can legally carry a concealed firearm without following specific rules. In fact, many otherwise law-abiding people end up facing serious criminal charges simply because they misunderstood Washington’s concealed carry laws. Please contact a skilled criminal defense attorney now if you’re being charged with any type of gun crime.
Is Concealed Carry Legal in Washington?
Generally, yes. Concealed carry is legal in Washington provided that you have a valid Concealed Pistol License (CPL).
Under Washington law, carrying a concealed pistol on your person or in a vehicle without a CPL is a crime, even if you legally own the firearm.
Without a CPL, you may be arrested and charged, and you will face penalties if later convicted.
What Is a Concealed Pistol License?
A Concealed Pistol License allows an individual to carry a concealed pistol and to have a loaded pistol in a vehicle. Washington is a “shall-issue” state, meaning law enforcement must issue a CPL if the applicant meets the statutory requirements.
To qualify for a CPL, a person must:
- Be at least 21 years old,
- Pass a background check, and
- Not be legally prohibited from possessing firearms.
CPL applications are submitted through local law enforcement agencies. While the process is relatively straightforward, the license does not eliminate all restrictions on where firearms may be carried.
Places Where Concealed Carry Is Still Restricted
Even with a valid CPL, Washington law prohibits firearms in specific locations. These locations include:
- Courthouses,
- Certain areas of jails and correctional facilities,
- Restricted areas of the state capitol, and
- Some government buildings.
Firearms are also heavily restricted on school grounds, with only narrow exceptions.
Violating location-based restrictions can lead to arrest, confiscation of the firearm, and potential suspension or revocation of a CPL.
What Happens If You Carry Concealed Without a License?
Carrying a concealed pistol without a CPL can result in criminal charges, firearm seizure, and a permanent criminal record.
A conviction may also impact future firearm rights, employment opportunities, and the ability to obtain a CPL later.
Because firearm offenses are taken seriously in Washington, these cases often move quickly through the criminal justice system.
Why Firearm Charges Require a Strong Defense
Gun-related charges are aggressively prosecuted, and mistakes by law enforcement are not uncommon. An experienced criminal defense attorney can examine whether a traffic stop or search was lawful, challenge improper seizures, and determine whether legal exceptions apply.
Acting early can significantly affect the outcome of your firearm case.
Contact Black & Askerov for Help
At Black & Askerov, our Seattle criminal defense lawyers have been representing clients in a wide range of gun and firearm cases for over 30 years. We understand how to start crafting a defense in your criminal gun case, and we know how to present persuasive arguments at trial or in the plea-bargaining process. Our Seattle criminal defense lawyers also have the skill and commitment that makes all the difference in these cases. Contact us now to get the legal help you deserve!
