Concealed CarryReciprocity Map

Washington DC Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map

Washington DC is a shall-issue District that offers both resident and non-resident concealed carry permits to those who meet certain qualifications. 

In order to qualify for a pistol permit in Washington DC, you must be at least 21 years old; own a registered pistol; have a residence or place of business within the District of Columbia; complete firearms training; be a “suitable” person to be licensed; and meet all federal requirements. There are also several factors that may disqualify you from being issued a CCW permit.

Open carry is strictly prohibited in Washington DC. 

To learn more about Washington DC concealed carry laws, review local statutes here, visit the Washington D.C. Metropolitan Police’s website, or contact District authorities. Washington DC has strict firearm laws, and it is highly recommended to familiarize yourself with them before traveling to the region or attempting to purchase or carry a firearm in the District.

*Disclaimer: This Washington DC concealed carry reciprocity map is not legal advice. For the most up-to-date information, check your local laws or consult an attorney. 

Washington DC Concealed Carry Laws at a Glance

Washington DC Concealed Carry FAQ

What is Reciprocity? 

Concealed carry reciprocity refers to a mutual agreement between two states to honor CCW licenses issued by one another. Depending on the state, concealed carry reciprocity can vary greatly. Some states simply accept permits from other states, while others do so with some added caveats. To learn more about this topic, check out “What is Concealed Carry Reciprocity”.

Which States’ Permits Does Washington DC Honor? 

Washington DC does not recognize concealed carry permits from any other state. However, it does offer non-resident permits to those who qualify. 

States With Reciprocity to Washington DC

Gun laws vary from state to state. When traveling with firearms, it’s your responsibility to know and comply with the laws of the state you’re visiting. Before transporting a gun over state lines, always check the laws in that state to ensure you’re doing so legally. 

The following states have a reciprocity agreement with Washington DC. Please note that while those marked with an asterisk do offer Washington DC CCW reciprocity, additional rules and restrictions may apply. 

Can You Conceal Carry in Washington DC Without a License?

No. Concealed carry is only permitted in Washington DC for those who have a license to do so.

What are the Requirements for a Concealed Carry Permit in Washington DC?

To obtain a Washington DC concealed carry permit, you must meet certain eligibility requirements: 

• Be at least 21 years old.

• Possess a registered pistol. 

• Have a residence or place of business within the District of Columbia. 

• Complete a firearms training course. 

• Be a “suitable” person to be licensed. 

• Meet all federal requirements. 

There are also certain factors that make you ineligible to conceal carry or obtain a Washington DC concealed carry permit: 

• A felony conviction.

• A conviction for a weapons-related offense. 

• A conviction of assault, bodily harm, or a drug offense within the past five years. 

• Certain mental illnesses. 

• Having been acquitted for any charge by reason of insanity within the past five years. 

• Having been admitted to a mental hospital within the past five years. 

• Have a physical defect that would make handling a firearm unsafe. 

• Having been found negligent in a firearm-related incident that resulted in death or injury. 

• A conviction for a misdemeanor family offense. 

• Be legally blind. 

• Two or more DUI convictions within the past five years. 

• Have a civil protection order against you within the past five years. 

• A stalking conviction within the past five years. 

For a full, detailed list of concealed carry eligibility requirements and disqualifiers in Washington DC, visit the Washington D.C. Metropolitan Police’s website. 

Can a Non-resident Concealed Carry in Washington DC?

Yes. Non-resident permits are issued to those who have a residence or place of business in the District. Those who don’t live or work in the District can still obtain a Washington DC non-resident permit if they have a valid CCW license from their state of residence. All firearms carried in DC must be registered in the District. 

Can You Open Carry in Washington DC?

No. Open carry is illegal in Washington DC. 

Where CAN’T You Conceal Carry in Washington DC?

Even with a concealed carry permit, some locations are off-limits to concealed carry in Washington DC, including public memorials on the National Mall and along the Tidal Basin; the White House Complex and grounds; the U.S. Naval Observatory; anywhere while consuming alcohol or while impaired; the Smithsonian; anywhere alcohol is served; stadiums and arenas; public gatherings or events that prohibit firearms; school, college, and university property and adjacent parking lots; government buildings; medical facilities; penal institutions, secure juvenile residential facilities and halfway houses; polling places during elections; public transportation; within 1,000 feet of a dignitary or high-ranking official of the United States or a state, local or foreign government that is moving under the protection of law enforcement; within 1,000 feet of a public demonstration where firearms are prohibited; private residential property (without permission from the owner); places of worship (unless specifically allowed); private property with “no weapons” signage; and anywhere it is prohibited by federal law. 

Where Can I Learn More About Washington DC Carry Laws? 

You can visit the Washington D.C. Metropolitan Police’s website for the most up-to-date information on permit eligibility or to apply for a Washington DC wear and carry permit. For the official laws regarding Washington DC concealed carry reciprocity and regulations, you can read local statutes here.

For the official laws regarding Washington DC concealed carry reciprocity and regulations, you can read local statutes here.