How do I Obtain a Concealed Carry Permit in West Virginia?
West Virginia has clearly defined laws regarding the carrying of handguns. With a permit, West Virginia allows those over 21 years of age to openly carry a handgun and provisions are available for legally transporting if you are under the age of 21. Additionally, West Virginia has protections in place that designate a person’s physical space and the right to use deadly force if that does become a necessity.
But what if you want to carry concealed in the state of West Virginia? How do you legally obtain a permit that will allow you to carry concealed in West Virginia and in those states that have reciprocity with the state of West Virginia?
Concealed carry of a handgun is only allowed for those who have a valid concealed carry permit. West Virginia is considered a “shall issue” state, which means that all who request a permit can be granted one assuming they meet the requirements.
The requirements for a concealed carry permit in West Virginia are as follows:
- Be a resident of this state and of the county in which the application is filed
- Be at least 21 years of age or be at least 18 years of age and be employed in a job requiring the applicant to carry concealed handguns
- Not be addicted to or an unlawful user of alcohol, controlled substances, or other drugs
- Not have been convicted of a felony
- Not have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of violence involving the use of a deadly weapon
- No convictions of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence
- Not be currently subject to either a temporary or final domestic violence protective order
- Not be on probation or any other form of judicial supervision for any misdemeanor
- Not under indictment for any felony
- Not have been adjudicated mentally incompetent by any court
- Be physically and mentally competent to carry a concealed handgun; this provision is vague but has not led to known abuses
- Have successfully completed one of several specified forms of handgun training.
Once you meet the requirements for the concealed weapons permit you must apply in the county where you reside. A background check will be conducted and if no issues are identified then you will be issued a concealed weapons permit. A second option to obtain a permit is to complete the non-resident requirements for a state that has reciprocity with West Virginia. If you’re ready to sign up for your Permit to Carry class, click here!
Click here to learn more about West Virginia state laws.
