Gun Laws in Washington State

1. Firearm Ownership and Purchase Requirements

• No FOID Card: Washington does not require a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card. However, buyers must meet state-specific criteria to purchase and own firearms.
• Permit to Purchase Handguns and Semi-Automatic Rifles:
  • Handguns: Buyers must pass a background check and, as of 2019, complete a firearms safety course.
  • Semi-Automatic Rifles: Washington law requires purchasers of semi-automatic rifles to be at least 21 and complete a firearms safety course within the previous five years.
• Background Checks: All firearm sales, including private sales, must go through a federally licensed firearms dealer (FFL) and are subject to a background check under Washington’s universal background check law.
• Waiting Periods:
  • Handguns: A 10-day waiting period is required for handgun purchases.
  • Semi-Automatic Rifles: Purchasers of semi-automatic rifles must also observe a 10-day waiting period.

2. Concealed Pistol License (CPL)

• Concealed Carry Permit Requirements:
  • Washington is a “shall-issue” state, meaning that if you meet eligibility criteria, you are entitled to a CPL. Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
  • Background checks are conducted, and applicants must not have any disqualifying criminal or mental health history.
  • Non-Residents: Non-residents can apply for a Washington CPL, but the application must be submitted in person.
• CPL Renewal: CPLs are valid for five years, and renewal applications can be submitted up to 90 days before or after expiration (though late renewals incur additional fees).
• Open Carry: Open carry is legal in Washington for those 21 and older. However, open carry is restricted in certain areas such as schools, government buildings, and private businesses that prohibit firearms on their premises.

3. Permissible Firearms and Restricted Firearm Types

• Handguns, Rifles, and Shotguns: Washington generally permits ownership of these firearms, with a minimum age of 21 for handguns and semi-automatic rifles, and 18 for other long guns.
• Assault Weapons: Washington does not currently have an outright ban on assault-style weapons; however, semi-automatic rifles are subject to additional restrictions, including training requirements and a 10-day waiting period.
• Suppressors: Suppressors are legal in Washington, but they must comply with federal law and be registered under the National Firearms Act (NFA).
• Magazine Capacity Limit: As of 2022, Washington prohibits the sale, transfer, or manufacture of magazines that hold more than 10 rounds. Residents who owned high-capacity magazines before this law may retain them.

4. Restricted Persons and Prohibited Firearm Ownership

• Washington prohibits firearm ownership for individuals who:
  • Have felony convictions or certain misdemeanor domestic violence convictions.
  • Are subject to active restraining or protection orders.
  • Have a history of mental health commitment or are considered a danger to themselves or others.
• Washington also adheres to federal prohibitions on firearm ownership.

5. Restricted Areas for Carrying Firearms

• Prohibited Locations:
  • Firearms, whether concealed or open-carried, are prohibited in certain areas, including schools, courthouses, government buildings, correctional facilities, and areas marked as “no firearms allowed.”
  • Public Transportation: Firearms are not allowed on Washington’s public transit systems.
  • Private businesses may also restrict firearms on their premises, and individuals are required to respect posted no-carry signs.
• Gun-Free Zones: Washington has established gun-free zones in certain areas, particularly near schools and other designated areas.

6. Firearm Transportation and Vehicle Rules

• Transporting Firearms in Vehicles:
  • Firearms must be unloaded and stored in a locked container or the trunk of a vehicle if not being carried with a CPL.
  • If the vehicle is left unattended, firearms must be secured and hidden from view.
• Concealed Pistol License Holders: CPL holders are allowed to carry loaded firearms in their vehicles, but must comply with restrictions on carrying in gun-free zones.
• Non-Resident Transport: Non-residents must transport firearms in compliance with Washington state law when traveling within state lines.

7. Ammunition Regulations

• Permit for Ammunition: Washington does not require a special permit to purchase standard ammunition types.
• Restrictions on Ammunition:
  • Armor-Piercing and Explosive Ammunition: Washington prohibits the possession and sale of armor-piercing and explosive ammunition.
  • Ammunition Sales Records: While Washington does not require a permit for standard ammunition, sellers are required to keep records of sales, and individuals must meet federal age requirements to purchase handgun and rifle ammunition.

8. Firearm Storage Requirements

• Safe Storage Requirements: Washington strongly encourages secure storage practices for all firearm owners, particularly in homes with minors or prohibited persons.
• Child Access Prevention: If a minor or prohibited person accesses an unsecured firearm, Washington law imposes penalties on the firearm owner if any harm results. Safe storage laws require owners to take precautions, such as using safes or trigger locks, to prevent unauthorized access.
• Lost or Stolen Firearms: Washington requires firearm owners to report lost or stolen firearms to local law enforcement within five days of discovering the loss. Failing to report a lost or stolen firearm can lead to fines and possible civil liability if the firearm is used in a crime.

9. Private Sales and Transfers

• Private Sales Requirements:
  • Private sales of firearms, including between family members, must go through an FFL to ensure a background check is completed. This applies to all firearms and is part of Washington’s universal background check requirement.
  • Failure to conduct the sale through an FFL can lead to fines and legal penalties.
• Gifting Firearms: Washington allows gifting firearms to family members but requires background checks for all handgun and semi-automatic rifle transfers. It is advisable to complete all transfers through an FFL to ensure compliance.

10. Penalties for Violations

• Unlawful Possession or Carrying: Possessing a firearm without meeting Washington’s requirements or carrying in prohibited areas can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the offense.
• Illegal Sale or Transfer: Selling or transferring a firearm without conducting a background check through an FFL can lead to significant penalties, including fines and potential jail time.
• Negligent Storage: Failing to secure firearms in a way that prevents access by minors or prohibited persons can lead to criminal charges, particularly if harm results from unauthorized access.
• Failure to Report Lost or Stolen Firearms: Not reporting a lost or stolen firearm can lead to civil and financial penalties, especially if the firearm is later used in criminal activity.

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Final Thoughts

Washington State gun laws balance the right to own firearms with significant public safety measures. From universal background checks to storage laws and ammunition restrictions, firearm owners must stay informed about state requirements. Given the evolving nature of Washington gun regulations, it’s wise to stay updated through the Washington State Department of Licensing and local law enforcement to ensure full compliance.