Concealed CarryReciprocity Map

West Virginia Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map

West Virginia is a shall-issue, permitless carry state that allows both residents and non-residents to conceal or open carry with or without a CCW license so long as they meet certain requirements. The state does offer resident and non-resident concealed carry permits for reciprocity purposes. 

In West Virginia, permitless carry became legal in 2016, allowing anyone over the age of 21 who is legally permitted to possess a firearm to conceal carry without needing to obtain a permit. Concealed carry is also legal for those 18-20 years old with a provisional concealed carry permit from West Virginia. 

To qualify for a regular West Virginia handgun permit, you must be at least 21 years old; be a citizen or legal resident of the U.S.; complete a firearms training course; and meet all federal requirements. 

In West Virginia, open carry is also legal for anyone over 18 who is legally permitted to possess a firearm. No permit is required for open carry in the state.

To learn more about West Virginia concealed carry law, read state statutes here, visit the West Virginia State Police’s website, or contact state authorities. 

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

West Virginia Concealed Carry Laws at a Glance

West Virginia 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 Does West Virginia Offer Reciprocity To?

West Virginia allows permitless carry, meaning anyone 18 years or older can conceal carry in the state with or without a license – regardless of their state of residence – so long as they meet certain requirements.

Which States Honor the West Virginia Carry Permit?

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 offer WV concealed carry reciprocity. Please note that while those marked with an asterisk do offer West Virginia reciprocity, additional rules and restrictions may apply. 

Is West Virginia a Constitutional Concealed Carry State?

Yes. As of 2016, anyone 18 years of age or older may conceal carry in West Virginia without a permit so long as they are legally allowed to possess a firearm. 

Requirements for a WV Concealed Carry Permit

To obtain a West Virginia CCW, you must meet certain eligibility requirements: 

• Be at least 21 years of age (or 18 if seeking a provisional license). 

• Complete a firearms training course. 

• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident. 

• Meet all federal requirements.

There are also certain factors that make you ineligible to obtain a West Virginia handgun permit:  

• An alcohol addiction.

• Unlawful use of a controlled substance. 

• A felony conviction. 

• Certain misdemeanor convictions. 

• Be under a protective order. 

• Be under indictment for a felony or currently serving a sentence of confinement, parole, probation, or other court-ordered supervision. 

• Be deemed mentally incompetent or having been involuntarily committed to a mental institution. 

• Be otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm. 

For a full, detailed list of concealed carry eligibility requirements in the state of West Virginia, visit the West Virginia State Police’s website. 

Can a Non-resident Conceal Carry in West Virginia?

West Virginia honors concealed carry permits from every U.S. state. However, regardless of your CCL status, non-residents may conceal carry without a permit as long as they are legally eligible to do so. Additionally, West Virginia concealed carry permits are issued to non-residents who meet the same requirements as residents. 

Is West Virginia an Open Carry State?

Yes. In West Virginia, open carry is legal for anyone at least 18 years old and legally permitted to carry a firearm. No permit is required for open carry in West Virginia. 

Where CAN’T You Conceal Carry in West Virginia? 

Even with a concealed carry permit, some locations are off-limits to concealed carry in West Virginia, including educational facilities; school buses; courthouses; the State Capitol Complex; correctional facilities; areas where firearms are prohibited by municipal code; property with “no weapons” signage; and anywhere it is prohibited by federal law. 

Where Can I Learn More About West Virginia Carry Laws? 

You can visit the West Virginia State Police’s website for the most up-to-date information on permit eligibility or to apply for a West Virginia CCW permit. For the official laws regarding West Virginia concealed carry reciprocity and regulations, you can read state statutes here.