Overview
Shall-issue through circuit court. Training required (online courses accepted). Open carry is legal at 18+ without a permit. CHP valid for 5 years. Virginia does not have stand your ground — duty to retreat in public. Red flag law enacted 2020. Universal background check requirement. One handgun per 30 days purchase limit. Constitutional carry bills have been introduced but not passed.
Permit Details
Permit Fee: ~$50
Where You Cannot Carry
Even with a valid permit, the following locations in Virginia prohibit firearms:
- Courthouses
- schools
- places of worship during services
- permitted events on public property. Concealed carry in restaurants/bars while consuming alcohol is prohibited.
Federal law always applies. Regardless of state law, carrying is always prohibited in federal buildings, post offices, VA facilities, military installations, airports (past TSA security), and anywhere prohibited by federal statute. These restrictions apply in every state.
Self-Defense Law
Stand Your Ground: No — Duty to Retreat. In Virginia, you generally have a duty to retreat before using deadly force if you can do so safely, except in your home (castle doctrine).
Castle Doctrine: Yes. You have no duty to retreat when defending your home against an intruder.
Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Gun laws change frequently. Always verify current laws through official state sources, your state attorney general's office, or a qualified attorney before carrying a firearm. DefensiveHandgun.com is not responsible for actions taken based on this information.