Source: https://www.tmwilsonlaw.com/criminal-law/firearms/concealed-handgun-permit
Timestamp: 2019-04-24 16:13:47+00:00

Document:
It is illegal in Virginia to carry a concealed weapon, whether that weapon is a handgun, a switchblade knife, or a razor. A violation of this law is a class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a $2500 fine. A second violation is a class 6 felony.
However, the Virginia legislature has decided to allow persons with a permit to carry a concealed handgun. A handgun is defined in Virginia code § 18.2-307.1 as: any pistol or revolver or other firearm, except a machine gun, originally designed, made, and intended to fire a projectile by means of an explosion of a combustible material from one or more barrels when held in one hand.
1. What is a Virginia permit to carry a concealed handgun?
2. Who is eligible to obtain a concealed handgun permit?
3. What is process to apply for a concealed handgun permit?
A Virginia concealed firearms permit allows you legally to carry a pistol, revolver, or other firearm, with certain exceptions.
A permit for a concealed handgun in Virginia will free you from the prohibition against concealed handguns found in Virginia's ban on concealed weapons in § 18.2-308 of the Virginia Code.
In Virginia there are two separate concealed handgun permits, (1) a resident handgun permit, and (2) a nonresident handgun permit. The requirements for a nonresident concealed handgun permit are more stringent than those for Virginia residents.
If you are a non resident you may still apply for a nonresident concealed handgun permit, which is designed for non residents who wish to carry a concealed handgun while in Virginia.
A permit for a nonresident is valid for 5 years.
2. Pursuant to § 18.2-308.02 You can demonstrate competence with a handgun through the completion of acceptable of firearms training. There are numerous ways to show that you have completed "acceptable firearms training".
Completion of any other firearms training which the court deems adequate.
Note: You may show a photocopy of a certificate of completion of any of the courses or classes; an affidavit from the instructor, school, club, organization, or group that conducted or taught such course or class attesting to the completion of the course or class by the applicant; or a copy of any document that shows completion of the course or class or evidences participation in firearms competition shall constitute evidence of qualification.
Certain people are generally not eligible to obtain a concealed handgun permit, pursuant to § 18.2-308.09. Disqualifications for a concealed handgun permit.
You have been convicted of two or more misdemeanors within the five-year period immediately preceding the application, if one of the misdemeanors was a Class 1 misdemeanor, but the judge shall have the discretion to deny a permit for two or more misdemeanors that are not Class 1. Traffic infractions and misdemeanors set forth in the motor vehicle code (i.e. reckless driving) are not considered.
You are addicted to, or are an unlawful user or distributor of, marijuana, synthetic cannabinoids, or any controlled substance.
You are an alien other than an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States.
You have been discharged from the armed forces of the United States under dishonorable conditions.
You are a fugitive from justice.
You are an individual the court finds, by a preponderance of the evidence, based on specific acts by the applicant, is likely to use a weapon unlawfully or negligently to endanger others.
You have been convicted, or have charges pending for, any assault, assault and battery, sexual battery, discharging of a firearm or brandishing of a firearm within the three-year period immediately preceding the application.
You have been convicted of stalking, or have charges pending for this offense.
You are an individual whose previous convictions or adjudications of delinquency were based on an offense that would have been at the time of conviction a felony if committed by an adult under the laws of any state. (A few exceptions apply).
You are an individual who has received mental health treatment or substance abuse treatment in a residential setting within five years prior to the date of his application for a concealed handgun permit.
The paper application. Provided that you meet the requirements enumerated above you may apply for a concealed handgun permit by filling out a paper application and submitting it to the proper court.
There is a $10 processing fee for the application. There is also another fee of about $35 for the background investigation. The total amount charged may not exceed $50, by statute.
Make sure to bring the necessary documentation to show completion of acceptable firearms training.
Upon receipt of the completed application, the court consults with either the sheriff or police department of the county or city. They will then receive a report from the Central Criminal Records Exchange.
The court then issues the permit via United States mail and notifies the State Police of the issuance of the permit within 45 days of receipt of the completed application unless it is determined that the applicant is disqualified.
Photographs. Submit two photographs of a type and kind specified by the Department of State Police for inclusion on the permit.
Fingerprints. Submit fingerprints on a card provided by the Department of State Police for the purpose of obtaining the applicant's state or national criminal history record.
Signed under oath. The application shall be made under oath before a notary or other person qualified to take oaths on a form provided by the Department of State Police.
Demonstrate competency with firearms. See 2.1.
The concealed handgun statute only applies to handguns that fall within the statutory definition of a handgun. A handgun is defined in Virginia code § 18.2-307.1 as: any pistol or revolver or other firearm, except a machine gun, originally designed, made, and intended to fire a projectile by means of an explosion of a combustible material from one or more barrels when held in one hand.
Virginia prohibits brandishing firearms, this statute is not an exception to that rule.
You may not carry a concealed handgun onto the premises of any restaurant or club and consume an alcoholic beverage while on the premises.
Must display the permit and a photo identification issued by a government agency of the Commonwealth or by the U.S. Department of Defense or U.S. State Department (passport) upon demand by a law-enforcement officer.
Failure to display the permit and a photo identification upon demand by a law-enforcement officer shall be punishable by a $25 civil penalty, which shall be paid into the state treasury.
The issuing authority provides the means for instantaneous verification of the validity of all such permits or licenses issued within that state, accessible 24 hours a day if available. § 18.2-308.014. Reciprocity.

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