Does Washington Honor Michigan CCW Permits?

What This Means for You

If you hold a valid Michigan concealed carry permit, you may legally carry a concealed firearm in Washington — subject to Washington's laws on where carry is permitted, what locations are off-limits, and what you must do if approached by law enforcement. Your permit type and any restrictions on it (resident vs non-resident, enhanced vs standard) may further limit what's recognized.

Always Follow Washington's Rules

Reciprocity only addresses recognition of your permit. Once you cross the state line into Washington, you are bound by Washington's carry laws — including no-carry zones (schools, courts, government buildings, posted private property), duty-to-inform rules during law-enforcement encounters, magazine capacity limits, and any restrictions on locations like restaurants serving alcohol.

Note on open carry: Reciprocity covers concealed carry only. Washington may have entirely different rules for open carry; review Washington's open-carry guide before traveling.

Restrictions to Watch For in Washington

• No-carry zones: <p>In Washington, firearms are prohibited in the following locations, even for individuals with a concealed carry permit:</p><ul><li>Schools and school grounds</li><li>Child care centers</li><li>Courthouses and courtrooms</li><li>Polling places on election days</li><li>Mental health facilities</li><li>Bars and taverns where the primary purpose is the sale of liquor for consumption on the premises</li></ul>
• Permit-type nuances: <p>Washington requires a permit to purchase a semi-automatic rifle. The application process involves completing a firearm safety training course, submitting fingerprints, and undergoing a background check. The permit is valid for one year and can be renewed.</p><p>For concealed carry, Washington issues a state-specific permit that is valid for five years. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, complete a firearms safety course, and pass a background check. Non-residents can also apply for a Washington concealed carry permit if their home state has a reciprocity agreement.</p>
• Vehicle carry: <p>In Washington, it is legal to carry a loaded handgun in a vehicle without a concealed carry permit. However, the handgun must be secured in a holster on the person's body. Long guns, such as rifles and shotguns, may be transported in a vehicle as long as they are unloaded and stored in a secure manner, such as in a gun case or trunk.</p>
• Magazine capacity limit: 10 rounds. Magazines exceeding this may be illegal to possess in Washington regardless of where you bought them.

Reverse Direction

The reverse question — "Does Michigan honor Washington CCW permits?" — has its own answer: Yes. See the Michigan ← Washington page for details.