Concealed Weapon Reciprocity

In order for Washington to recognize other states’ concealed weapons permits, Washington state's reciprocity law (RCW 9.41.073) dictates that the other state must:

•       Recognize Washington concealed pistol licenses;

•       Not issue concealed pistol licenses to persons under age 21; AND

•       Require a mandatory fingerprint-based background check for criminal and mental health history. 

Washington’s law recognizing concealed pistol/handgun licenses from other states is clear, unambiguous and confers no discretion on the Attorney General to ignore or waive any of its requirements.

Washington concealed pistol licenses will be recognized in the following states, and concealed weapons licenses issued in the listed states will be recognized in Washington state, so long as the handgun is carried in accordance with Washington law.

NOTE: Handguns must be carried in accordance with the law of the state you are visiting. Some states may recognize Washington permits, even though Washington doesn't recognize theirs. Be sure to check the laws of the other state before traveling there with your handgun.

*  This states does not recognize non-resident concealed pistol licenses issued by Washington state.

**  Class 1 ND permits only.

This report is updated yearly. The last update was 1/15/13.