Virginia Concealed Carry Permit in Bristol VA

If you’re a responsible gun owner in Bristol, Virginia, learning how to lawfully carry a concealed firearm is an important step toward protecting yourself and those you care about. Obtaining a Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), commonly called a CCW permit, grants you the legal right to carry a hidden handgun for personal defense while staying fully compliant with state law.

This guide explains everything residents of Bristol VA should know about concealed carry in Virginia, including who qualifies, how to apply, and why Open Arms Instruction is the preferred choice for firearm safety and concealed carry classes throughout Southwest Virginia.

What Is A Concealed Carry Permit?

A concealed carry permit (also known as a CCW license) authorizes qualified citizens to carry a handgun out of public view. In Virginia, “concealed” means the firearm must not be visible, usually worn under clothing, carried in a purse, or stored securely inside a vehicle compartment.

Carrying a hidden firearm without a valid permit is against the law and can lead to criminal charges. With a Virginia concealed carry permit, Bristol gun owners can legally exercise their right to self-defense and peace of mind wherever they travel in the Commonwealth.

What You Need to Know About A Concealed Carry Permit in Bristol, Virginia

Bristol, Virginia Is a “Shall-Issue” State

Virginia follows a shall-issue policy, which requires the Washington County Circuit Court (serving Bristol residents) to issue a permit once all state requirements are met. This system guarantees a fair and consistent approval process across the state.

Who Can Apply for a Virginia Concealed Carry Permit in Bristol, VA?

To qualify for a Virginia CCW permit in Bristol, you must:

• Be 21 years of age or older

• Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident

• Reside in Virginia or own property in the state

• Complete an approved firearms-safety or concealed-carry class

• Have no felony record or disqualifying mental-health history

• Not be under a protective order or active criminal indictment

Permit Validity and Renewal

• An Bristol Virginia concealed carry permit is valid for five (5) years

• You can renew your permit up to 180 days before it expires

• Renewal typically does not require another class, but taking a refresher course is encouraged to stay current with state laws and safe carry practices

Reciprocity with Other States

Virginia’s concealed carry permit is honored in 30+ states, allowing Bristol residents to carry legally while traveling. Always review the laws of each state you plan to visit, as firearm regulations differ.

How to Get A Virginia Carry Permit

The process for obtaining your concealed carry permit in Bristol, VA, is straightforward. Follow these steps carefully to avoid application delays.

Step 1: Take a Concealed Carry Class

Virginia requires all applicants to take a recognized firearm-safety or concealed-carry course. At Open Arms Instruction, our Virginia concealed carry classes near Bristol are beginner-friendly and legally certified. Each class covers:

• Firearm safety fundamentals

• Legal responsibilities and use of deadly force

• Safe handling and storage of handguns

• Virginia-specific concealed-carry laws

• Developing awareness and defensive mindset

We also offer other gun classes like advanced pistol, AR-15, and home-defense training for those seeking next-level preparation.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You’ll need to prepare:

• Completed Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit application form

• Certificate of training completion

• Valid government-issued photo ID

• Proof of residency in Bristol (VA driver’s license, utility bill, or lease)

• Permit fee payment (up to $50 as per state law)

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Turn in your paperwork to the Washington County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office either in person or by mail. Review all fields carefully, missing signatures or incomplete information can delay approval.

Step 4: Background Check & Processing

The court will run a background check. If approved, your Virginia concealed carry permit arrives by mail within 45 days. If processing takes longer, you’re entitled to a temporary permit until the permanent one is issued.

Why Should You Get A Virginia Carry Permit in Bristol, VA at Open Arms Instruction?

When it comes to firearm safety and concealed-carry education, Open Arms Instruction is trusted by students across Virginia for practical, professional instruction that emphasizes both legal understanding and responsible firearm ownership.

1. Certified and Experienced Instructor

Our instructors are certified professionals with law enforcement, military, and civilian defensive training backgrounds. Adam Metcalf is the founder of Open Arms Instruction and an Air Force veteran and retired federal Special Agent.  He served in the United States Secret Service on the Presidential Protective Detail and has been a firearms and tactics instructor for over a decade.  In that time, he has trained hundreds of agents as well as hundreds of private citizens in self-defense, conflict avoidance, and concealed carry skills. We ensure that all participants receive practical, legal, and situational knowledge, not just a generic lecture.

2. Tailored Training for All Skill Levels

Our Bristol concealed carry classes welcome everyone, from new firearm owners to experienced shooters. Lessons are adapted to your comfort and learning pace, ensuring you gain confidence through safe, structured practice.

3. Emphasis on Real-Life Scenarios

We go beyond lectures with hands-on drills and real-world scenarios, teaching you how to make calm, informed decisions in stressful situations which skills that matter in actual self-defense encounters.

4. Small Group and Private Sessions Available

Prefer individual attention? We offer private, small-group, and women-only concealed carry classes throughout Bristol and other cities in Virginia, providing a comfortable and supportive environment for all participants.

5. Bonus: Continuing Tactical Training

After earning your Virginia CCW permit, continue your education with tactical pistol, AR-15, or home-defense courses to stay sharp and legally prepared.

Conclusion

Securing your Virginia concealed carry permit in Bristol is about more than meeting state requirements. It’s about gaining confidence, awareness, and the skills to protect yourself responsibly. At Open Arms Instruction, we make that journey simple and empowering. You’ll leave with not just your training certificate, but a deeper understanding of firearm safety and the law.

Take the first step today and enroll in a Bristol concealed carry class with Open Arms Instruction and the growing community of responsible gun owners across Virginia.