Virginia Gun Laws 2026
Complete guide to firearms laws in Virginia.
Last updated: 2026-03-14
Quick Reference
- Permit to Purchase
- Not required
- Background Check
- State-run (Virginia State Police) for all FFL sales; universal for all sales since 2020
- Waiting Period
- None
- Open Carry
- Permitted without permit (some locality restrictions)
- Concealed Carry
- Permit Required
- Assault Weapon Ban
- No
- Magazine Limit
- No limit
- Red Flag Law
- Yes
Complete Guide
Purchasing a Firearm in Virginia
Virginia does not require a special permit or license to purchase a firearm. Buyers must be at least 18 years old for long guns (rifles and shotguns) and 21 for handguns when purchasing from a licensed dealer, in accordance with federal law. All buyers must be able to pass a background check and must not be a prohibited person under federal or state law.
Virginia requires background checks for all firearm sales, including private transactions between individuals. This universal background check requirement means that even sales at gun shows between private parties must go through a licensed dealer or state-run system. This is one of the more comprehensive background check requirements in the country.
Virginia does not impose a waiting period on firearm purchases. Once the background check is completed and approved, the buyer may take immediate possession of the firearm. This applies to both handguns and long guns purchased through licensed dealers.
Concealed Carry in Virginia
Virginia has a permit-based concealed carry system. Virginia requires a concealed carry permit or license to carry a concealed handgun in public. The state operates a shall-issue system, meaning the issuing authority must grant the permit if the applicant meets all legal requirements. There is no discretionary denial. Requirements typically include minimum age, background check, and in some cases a firearms safety training course.
Concealed carry permit holders (where applicable) should be aware of restricted locations where carry is prohibited regardless of permit status. These typically include federal buildings, courthouses, schools and school zones, polling places on election day, and any private property where firearms are prohibited by the owner. Posted signage requirements vary by state — in Virginia, always look for posted signs at building entrances.
Open Carry Laws
Open carry of firearms is legal in Virginia. No permit is required to openly carry a firearm. Open carry refers to carrying a firearm in a manner that is visible to others, such as in a belt holster. While legal at the state level, some municipalities or specific locations (government buildings, schools, courthouses) may restrict open carry. It is important to be aware of local ordinances and posted signage.
Assault Weapons and Magazine Restrictions
Virginia does not have an assault weapons ban. Semi-automatic firearms of all types may be legally purchased, possessed, and carried (subject to general firearms laws). There are no state-level restrictions on specific firearm features such as pistol grips, adjustable stocks, or flash suppressors.
Virginia does not restrict magazine capacity. There are no limits on the number of rounds a magazine may hold. Standard-capacity and high-capacity magazines of any size may be legally purchased and possessed.
Red Flag Law
Virginia has enacted a red flag law, also known as an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) law. This allows family members, law enforcement, or in some states other designated individuals to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from a person who is deemed to be a danger to themselves or others. The process involves a hearing, and the subject has the right to contest the order. If granted, firearms are temporarily confiscated and the individual is prohibited from purchasing new firearms for the duration of the order, typically 6-12 months.
Gun Show Regulations in Virginia
Gun shows in Virginia follow the same laws that apply to all firearm sales. Licensed dealers (FFLs) at gun shows must conduct background checks on all purchases, just as they would at their retail location. All sales at gun shows, including private sales between individuals, require a background check under state law. Gun shows typically require all firearms brought in for sale to be unloaded and secured with cable ties or similar safety devices. Individual show promoters may set additional rules.
FFL Transfer Rules
When purchasing a firearm online, the firearm must be shipped to a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) in Virginia for the transfer. The buyer then completes the standard Form 4473 and background check at the FFL's location. FFL transfer fees in Virginia typically range from $20 to $75 per firearm. Use our FFL dealer directory to find transfer-friendly dealers near you.
Key Considerations for Virginia Residents
Virginia maintains a permit-based system for concealed carry, balancing Second Amendment rights with regulatory oversight. Gun owners should stay informed of any legislative changes, as firearms laws are frequently updated. The information on this page reflects the law as of 2026, but laws can change at any time. Always consult the full text of current state statutes or a licensed attorney in Virginia before making legal decisions based on this guide.
For more information on firearms in Virginia, visit our FFL dealer directory for Virginia, browse upcoming gun shows in Virginia, or check the concealed carry reciprocity map to see which states honor Virginia's carry permits.
Key Statutes & Citations
- Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308 — Carrying Concealed Weapons
- Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.2 — Prohibiting the Possession of Firearms by Certain Persons
- Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.2:2 — Criminal History Record Information Check Required for Certain Gun Sales
- Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308.7 — Possession or Transportation of Assault Firearms, Certain Firearm Magazines, Triggers, Muzzle Breaks, or Silencers; Penalty
What Changed in 2026
Legislative Landscape
Permits & Licensing Details
Virginia is a 'shall-issue' state, meaning that the state is required to issue a concealed carry permit to any applicant who meets the statutory requirements. The application process involves submitting a completed form, passing a background check, and completing a firearms safety training course. The permit is valid for 5 years and can be renewed. Virginia also recognizes concealed carry permits from other states.
Carrying in a Vehicle
In Virginia, it is generally lawful to carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle without a permit, provided the handgun is unloaded and secured in a closed container or compartment. Long guns, such as rifles and shotguns, may also be transported in a vehicle, but they must be unloaded and either secured in a closed container or rack.
No-Carry Zones
In Virginia, firearms are prohibited in the following locations, even for individuals with a valid concealed carry permit:
- Schools and school property
- Courthouses and courtrooms
- Polling places on election days
- Certain government buildings and facilities
- Airports
- Bars and restaurants that derive more than 50% of their gross revenue from the sale of alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption
- Places of worship, unless the owner or manager gives permission
Shipping & FFL Transfers
Virginians who purchase firearms from out-of-state sellers must have the firearm shipped to a licensed firearms dealer in Virginia for transfer. The dealer will conduct a background check on the buyer and facilitate the transfer, which may include additional fees. There are no state-specific requirements beyond the federal laws governing interstate firearm transfers.
Revision History
- 2026-03-14 — Comprehensive content update: added statute citations, vehicle carry rules, no-carry zones, permit details, buying rules by firearm type, and shipping/transfer notes.
Concealed Carry Reciprocity
Virginia honors concealed carry permits from 49 states.
Reciprocity agreements change frequently. Verify current recognition with your state attorney general before traveling with a firearm.
Full reciprocity map →Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Virginia?
No. Virginia does not require a permit or license to purchase a firearm.
Is Virginia a permitless carry state?
No. Virginia requires a concealed carry permit or license to carry concealed in public.
What is the waiting period for buying a gun in Virginia?
Virginia has no waiting period. Once the background check is approved, the buyer may take immediate possession.
Can I openly carry a firearm in Virginia?
Permitted without permit (some locality restrictions)
Does Virginia have a red flag law?
Yes. Virginia has an Extreme Risk Protection Order (red flag) law that allows courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger.
Does Virginia ban assault weapons or limit magazine capacity?
No. Virginia does not ban assault weapons. There are no magazine capacity restrictions.