Weapons in CMVs - Washington

In Washington, concealed carry of a firearm is legal for adults aged 21 and older who are allowed under state and federal law to possess a firearm and who have a state Concealed Pistol License or a valid permit from a reciprocity state. This extends to concealed carry in a private vehicle, as long as the licensee has a valid permit on their person; is present with the weapon at all times; and stores the weapon in the locked vehicle and concealed from view when the licensee is not present.

Permits

Washington CPLs are issued by local police departments. CPLs may be issued to qualified residents and non-residents 21 years and older. Washington has limited reciprocity with other states, although more states accept Washington CPLs than Washington accepts from other states; Washington only recognizes permits from states that:

• Recognize Washington state CPLs;
• Do not issue permits to anyone under age 21; and
• Require a background check with fingerprints.

Magazine capacity limits

Washington state law limits magazine capacity to no more than 10 rounds.

Other weapons

No weapons other than handguns are approved for concealed carry in Washington.

Permitted non-lethal weapons include:

• Stun guns/tasers (some restrictions apply)
• Pepper spray
• Tear gas
• Bear spray (legal for self-defense against wildlife)
• Bludgeons/batons
• Brass knuckles (restrictions may apply)
• Less-lethal launchers

Duty to inform

There is no duty to inform in Washington unless asked by a member of law enforcement.

Employee parking lots

This issue is not addressed in Washington state law.