is washington an open carry state
Andrew Walker
Updated on June 14, 2026
Washington is an open-carry state, which means that an individual can openly carry a firearm in many public areas, although private property owners may prohibit firearm possession on their property. This right to openly carry firearms doesn’t mean that anything goes, however.
Can you carry a gun in Washington state without a license?
Is open carry permitted in Washington? Yes, without a license. Any person who is at least 21 years old and legally entitled to carry a firearm can open carry. Some areas are off-limits, including public schools and state courthouses.
Can you open carry anywhere in Washington State?
Open carry is lawful in Washington without any permit. Open carry of a loaded handgun in a vehicle is legal only with a concealed pistol license. Open carry of a loaded long gun in a vehicle is illegal, regardless of CPL possession.
Can out of state residents open carry in Washington state?
Yes. Non-residents can also apply for a firearm license as long as they meet all the requirements provided by Washington statutes. However, unlike resident’s applications, non-residents cannot submit via mail. They must be physically present.
Can I carry a Gun while hiking in Washington?
A person engaging in a lawful outdoor recreational activity such as hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, or horseback riding, is not prohibited from carrying a concealed firearm only if, considering all of the attendant circumstances, including but not limited to whether the person has a valid hunting or fishing license,
Can you open carry in Walmart in Washington state?
Walmart announced it will stop selling some ammunition sales and ask customers to not openly carry guns, even in states like Washington, where it’s allowed.
Can I carry a loaded gun in my car?
Generally, carrying a loaded rifle or shotgun in a motor vehicle is illegal. If you do have this license and are carrying a loaded handgun in your car, you must also comply with the following rules. You must carry the handgun on your person. You must be in the vehicle at all times that the handgun is present.
How much is a concealed carry permit in Washington state?
The fee for a Washington concealed weapon permit is $48.00. What are the requirements for a Washington Concealed Pistol License? Be 21 years of age or older at time of application. Be a United States citizen or a permanent resident alien with permanent resident card or “green card.”
Is there a stand your ground law in Washington state?
Washington Law allows a person to use reasonable force to defend themselves when they are being attacked or have a reasonable belief that they are about to be attacked. A person may not use more force than is necessary given the situation. The law does not impose a duty to retreat.
Can my wife carry my gun in Washington state?
Only “Immediate” Family Members Qualify. Washington law only allows unregulated family gun transfers between “immediate” family members. For this purpose, the law defines immediate family members as: Spouses and Domestic Partners.
What states can you carry a Gun without a permit 2021?
Constitutional Carry States
This means that anyone that can legally carry a weapon may do so without a permit. The Constitutional Carry states are: Alaska (residents only), Arizona, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, Vermont (does not issue permits), West Virginia (residents only), and Wyoming.
Can I open carry at a park in Washington?
All state laws regarding firearms apply in State parks. Open carry is legal in the state of Washington. It is legal to carry a concealed firearm while engaging in lawful recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, camping, hiking or horseback riding or traveling to legitimate outdoor recreation areas.
How many gun owners are in Washington state?
Licenses in 2021: 165,534
Guns are in the households of an estimated 42.1% of Washington state residents.