How to get your license: Concealed pistol license (CPL)
How is the Department of Licensing involved in firearms sales and transfers?
Law enforcement agencies (LEAs) run background checks and issue concealed pistol licenses. DOL is the record keeper for firearms information. Data is available to LEAs or correctional agencies only.
Requirements
You must be 21 years old to have a CPL and if you:
- Carry a pistol concealed on your person.
- Have a loaded pistol in a vehicle
You won’t qualify for a CPL if you:
- Have a revoked concealed pistol license.
- Are subject to a court order or injunction concerning the possession of firearms.
- Are free on bond or personal recognizance while awaiting trial, appeal, or sentencing for a felony offense.
- Have an outstanding warrant for your arrest for a felony or misdemeanor.
- Were ordered to forfeit a firearm within the last 12 months.
- Were convicted of a felony.
- To restore your rights, contact the courts where your conviction is or the superior court where you live.
Fees
Fee amounts depend on the license you are requesting. See our list of current fees.
How to apply
- Call or check the website of your local LEA and verify you live in their jurisdiction. If so, ask for a Concealed Pistol License Application.
- You will need a valid state driver license or ID.
- If you are a permanent resident alien, bring your permanent resident card.
- If you have an alien firearms license, bring your original passport and US‑issued alien number or admission number.
- If applicable, bring your original certificate of rehabilitation or firearms restoration orders.
- Pay fees with cash or check/money order payable to the law enforcement agency.
- LEA will complete the fingerprints and a background check.
Your license is valid for 5 years from the date it is issued.
| If you live | Apply at |
|---|---|
| In an unincorporated area of a county in Washington | Your county sheriff's office |
| In an incorporated city or town in Washington | Your city/town police department or your county sheriff’s office |
| Outside of Washington (not a Washington state resident) | Any local law enforcement agency (police department or sheriff’s office) in Washington State |
If your license is lost, denied, or revoked
Call or visit the website or your LEA where you applied for your license. They will instruct you on where to go, what to bring, and fees to get a replacement license.
Resources
- Attorney General Office (atg.wa.gov) to see states with firearms reciprocity.
- Fill out the Firearms Record Certification Request for information on your firearm record.
- Firearms Safety, Suicide Awareness, The Law, and You (wdfw.wa.gov)
Related information
All links:
- RCW 9.41.070: Concealed pistol license - Application - Fee - Renewal
- RCW 9.41.050: Carrying firearms
- RCW 9.41.040: Unlawful possession of firearms - Ownership, possession by certain persons - Restoration of right to possess - Penalties
- RCW 9.41.075: Concealed pistol license - Revocation
- RCW 9.41.047: Restoration of possession rights
- RCW 42.56.240: Public Records Act
