Is Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) Legal in Virginia? (2026)
Partially — Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) is legal with restrictions in Virginia as of 2026.
Law changed in 2026: Virginia has not moved towards constitutional carry. In March 2026, the legislature passed a number of gun control measures, including a ban on certain semi-automatic firearms and high-capacity magazines, which are awaiting the governor's signature.
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Quick Answer
Virginia does not allow permitless concealed carry. A concealed handgun permit is required under Va. Code § 18.2-308. Permitless open carry is allowed for persons 18 and older.
- Age restriction: 21 years or older to obtain concealed handgun permit
What the Law Says
Virginia law requires a permit for concealed handgun carry. Carrying a concealed handgun without this permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
— Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-308
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Permitless Carry Rules | Concealed carry requires a permit; open carry is legal without a permit for 18+. |
| Permit Availability | Sales regulated under Va. Code Title 18.2; private sales allowed without background checks. |
| Penalties | Carrying concealed without a permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor. |
| Minimum Age | 21 years or older to obtain concealed handgun permit. |
| Pending Legislation | Several bills proposed to allow permitless carry, none passed as of 2025. |
Virginia has not moved towards constitutional carry. In March 2026, the legislature passed a number of gun control measures, including a ban on certain semi-automatic firearms and high-capacity magazines, which are awaiting the governor's signature.
Enforcement Reality
Virginia requires a permit for concealed carry and does not have constitutional carry. Enforcement is consistent, and the state has a well-established system for issuing permits. Open carry is legal without a permit in many places, but can be restricted by local ordinances.
A common mistake is not understanding the difference between open and concealed carry laws, and where each is permitted. Another is carrying a firearm in a vehicle without a permit, which has specific legal requirements.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Virginia. 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 Virginia. 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.
Virginia 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. Virginia 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):
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is carrying a concealed weapon without a permit legal in Virginia?
What are the restrictions on carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Virginia?
What mistakes do people make with carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Virginia?
What is the minimum age for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit in Virginia?
Is Virginia changing its constitutional carry (permitless concealed carry) laws?
Does the law on carrying a concealed weapon without a permit change at the Virginia border?
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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 Virginia Legal Guides
Explore all related legal topics in Virginia — statutes, penalties, and enforcement in one place.
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Constitutional Carry (Permitless Concealed Carry) in Other States
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