Requirements: Concealed pistol license

What requirements must I meet to get a license?

You must meet all of the following requirements:

  • 21 years of age or older at time of application.
  • United States citizen or have an alien firearms license issued by the Department of Licensing in Olympia. Our phone number is (360) 664-6616.
  • No pending trial, appeal, or sentencing on a charge that would prohibit you from having a license.
  • No outstanding warrants for any charge, from any court.
  • No court order or injunction against possessing a firearm.
  • No mental health conditions that would prohibit you from having a license.
  • No felony convictions.
  • No convictions for any of the following crimes committed by one family member against another on or after July 1, 1993:
    • Assault IV
    • Coercion
    • Stalking
    • Reckless Endangerment in the second degree
    • Criminal Trespass in the first degree
    • Violation of the provisions of a protection order or no-contact order restraining the person or excluding the person from the residence

Is there a background check?

Yes, you will need to be fingerprinted and have a criminal history background check before you can be issued a license. Please see Frequently asked questions for more information about licensing requirements.

Where do I apply for a concealed pistol license?

  • If you live in the unincorporated area of a county you must apply in person at your sheriff’s office.
  • If you live in an incorporated city within the county, you may apply in person at either the city police department or sheriff’s office.
  • If you are not a Washington State resident, you may apply at any local law enforcement agency in the state.

What documents will I need to bring with me?

You will need to bring:

  • picture identification such as a Washington driver license or identification card.
  • The $55.25 fee in cash, check, or money order made payable to the law enforcement agency. This fee is non-refundable.

Does Washington have reciprocity for concealed pistol licenses with any other states?

Washington accepts concealed pistol licenses issued by a number of other states, as long as the handgun is carried in accordance with Washington law. The Washington State Attorney General's website provides a list of states that have reciprocity with Washington for concealed pistol licenses.