A new bill, known as Virginia HB1797, passed in the Virginia House of Representatives and, if it goes any further, it will dramatically restrict reciprocity of Virginia’s concealed handgun permits. Currently, 32 states have some form of reciprocity with Virginia, meaning they honor Virginia’s concealed carry handgun permits. However, if HB1797 becomes law, Virginia CCW permits will be good in less than 10 states.
Why is Concealed Carry Reciprocity Important?
Simply stated, Concealed Carry Reciprocity is important because it allows gun owners to legally carry their concealed weapons across state lines. The more states that reciprocate, or recognize, your CCW permit, the easier it is for you to travel with your firearm, and the more states you can visit or pass through.
Why Obtain a Utah Concealed Firearm Permit?
The Utah concealed firearm permit offers reciprocity with more than 30 states, which allows you to legally carry your firearm in these states even if you are not a resident of the state. Furthermore, you do not need to be a Utah resident to obtain a Utah concealed firearm permit. In fact, any U.S. citizen or legal resident with intent to reside in the United States may obtain a Utah concealed firearm permit, provided they meet the minimum qualifications. However, if you reside in a state that has reciprocity with Utah, like Virginia, you must first obtain a concealed carry permit in your home state.
What are the Qualifications for a Utah Concealed Firearm Permit?
To apply for a Utah concealed forearm permit, all Virginia residents must meet the following requirements:
- Obtain a Virginia concealed carry permit
- Be at least 21 years of age for the standard permit (and at least 18 years of age for the provisional permit)
- Pass a criminal background check
- Be qualified to purchase and possess a firearm pursuant to Section 76-10-503 and federal law
- Possess good character
- Not have been convicted of a felony
- Not have been convicted of any crime of violence
- Not have been convicted of any offense involving the use of alcohol
- Not have been convicted of any offenses involving the unlawful use of narcotics or other controlled substances
- Not have been convicted of any offenses involving moral turpitude
- Not have been convicted of any offense involving domestic violence
- Complete a Utah concealed firearm permit course certified by the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI)
Are Utah Concealed Firearm Permit Courses Offered in Virginia?
Yes! Piece Be With You offers BCI-certified Utah concealed firearm permit courses in Williamsburg, Glen Allen, Newport News, and throughout the Virginia Peninsula. If you’re interested in registering, please contact us or view our Class Schedule for class locations, dates and times.
How to apply for a Utah Concealed Firearm Permit
Applications are accepted through the mail at the Bureau of Criminal Identification, 4315 South 2700 West, Suite 1300, Taylorsville, Utah 24129. All applicants must submit the following with their application:
- Photocopy of state-issued driver license
- Passport-quality photograph
- Fingerprint card
- Photocopy of Virginia concealed carry permit
- Proof of Utah concealed firearm permit course completion