Washington Gun Laws

Shall-issue concealed carry. 10-round magazine limit. 10-business-day waiting period. Assault weapon ban. Red flag law.

Last reviewed against official sources on 2026-09-25. Official state source.

Washington requires a shall-issue permit for concealed carry. The state bans assault weapons, limits magazines to 10 rounds, requires a 10-business-day waiting period and proof of firearm safety training for purchases, and has a red flag law. A state permit to purchase takes effect May 1, 2027. Universal background checks are required for all transfers.

Key facts

• Concealed Carry: Shall-issue permit required (RCW § 9.41.070)
• Open Carry: Permitted without a permit
• Permit to Purchase: Not required until May 1, 2027, when a state permit-to-purchase takes effect (RCW § 9.41.121)
• Assault Weapon Ban: Yes — assault weapons banned (RCW § 9.41.390)
• Magazine Limit: 10 rounds maximum (RCW § 9.41.370)
• Waiting Period: 10 business days and an approved background check (all firearms) (RCW § 9.41.092)
• Universal Background Check: Required for all sales and transfers (RCW § 9.41.113)
• Red Flag Law (ERPO): Yes — Extreme Risk Protection Order
• Castle Doctrine: Yes
• Stand Your Ground: Yes
• Concealed Carry Reciprocity: Honors permits from a criteria-evaluated list of reciprocal states (Washington Attorney General — CPL Reciprocity)

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to carry concealed in Washington?

Yes. Washington requires a shall-issue concealed pistol license. Open carry is generally allowed without a permit.

What is the magazine limit in Washington?

Washington limits magazines to 10 rounds. Large capacity magazines acquired before the law may be grandfathered.

Does Washington have an assault weapon ban?

Yes. Washington bans the sale, manufacture, and import of assault weapons. The law doesn't ban possession — weapons lawfully owned before the ban can be kept, and Washington has no registration requirement.

Does Washington have a waiting period?

Yes. A dealer can't deliver any firearm until the background check is approved and at least 10 business days have passed since it was requested.

Does Washington have a red flag law?

Yes. Washington has an Extreme Risk Protection Order law allowing family and law enforcement to petition for temporary firearm removal.

Does Washington recognize concealed carry permits from other states?

Only from states the Washington Attorney General has determined meet three conditions: the state must reciprocally recognize Washington's own license, must not issue to anyone under 21, and must require a fingerprint-based background check. Check the Attorney General's current published list before carrying here on an out-of-state permit.

Not legal advice. Laws change; verify with official sources.