Carrying
RCW 9.41.050 — a license to carry a pistol concealed, and at 21
In Washington, except in their home or fixed place of business, a person may not carry a pistol concealed on their person without a license to carry a concealed pistol. A licensee keeps the license in immediate possession and displays it on demand to a police officer; not doing so is a class 1 civil infraction.
| In a vehicle | The rule |
|---|---|
| In a vehicleA loaded pistol | The ruleOnly a licensee, with it on their person, or with them in the vehicle, or locked in and concealed from view when they are away; otherwise a misdemeanor |
| In a vehicleAn unloaded pistol left in the vehicle | The ruleLocked in and concealed from view outside; otherwise a misdemeanor |
The chief of police or sheriff issues a license within thirty days after an application, good for five years, to an eligible applicant; one requirement is being at least twenty-one.
Carrying or displaying a weapon to intimidate is a gross misdemeanor. Carrying, exhibiting, displaying or drawing a firearm or other weapon in a way that shows an intent to intimidate or that warrants alarm for others' safety is a gross misdemeanor and costs a concealed pistol license. It does not apply in one's home or business, or to someone protecting themselves or another against presently threatened unlawful force.
Sources for this section (3)
- RCW 9.41.050 — Carrying firearms
- RCW 9.41.070 — Concealed pistol license
- RCW 9.41.270 — Weapons apparently capable of producing bodily harm; unlawful carrying or handling
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Washington attorney.