
What Should You Expect at Open Arms?
At Open Arms Instruction, we’re not just checking boxes — we’re building confident, law-abiding concealed carriers. Led by Adam Metcalf, a seasoned instructor with years of experience in both civilian and tactical training, our courses go beyond the basics.

Practical, real-world safety training

Friendly, judgment-free learning environment

Clear instructions on Virginia concealed carry laws

Options for beginner and advanced students

Scenario-based situational awareness techniques

Flexible scheduling and fast certification turnaround
What Our Classes Include?
Our Virginia concealed carry classes are certified to fulfill all training requirements for your Virginia CCW permit. These are not just PowerPoints; they're engaging, hands-on sessions with real value.
Each class includes:
Firearm safety fundamentals
Where you can and cannot carry
Proper storage and transport of firearms
Use of force and self-defense legal principles
De-escalation and threat recognition
Legal overview of Virginia and federal carry laws
Application walkthrough and next steps for submitting your Virginia concealed carry application
Upcoming Events

Draw, Move, Shoot! (Only 2 Seats Left)Sat, Jan 10NRA Headquarters Range
VA Concealed Carry Class and Conflict AvoidanceSat, Jan 24Centerfuse in downtown Manassas
VA Concealed Carry Class and Conflict AvoidanceSat, Feb 07Centerfuse in downtown Manassas
Realistic Carry HandgunSun, Mar 08NRA Headquarters Range
VA Concealed Carry Class and Conflict AvoidanceSat, Mar 14Centerfuse in downtown Manassas
VA Concealed Carry Class and Conflict AvoidanceSat, Apr 11Centerfuse in downtown Manassas
VA Concealed Carry Class and Conflict AvoidanceSat, May 02Centerfuse in downtown Manassas
VA Concealed Carry Class and Conflict AvoidanceMultiple DatesSat, Nov 01Centerfuse in downtown Manassas
Realistic Carry HandgunSun, Oct 05NRA Headquarters Range
Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs)
How long does it take to get a concealed carry permit in Virginia?
By law, the court has 45 days to issue your CCW permit after receiving your completed application. In some counties, it may arrive sooner.
Do I need a permit to carry a concealed handgun in Virginia?
Yes. While Virginia allows open carry without a permit, carrying a concealed firearm requires a valid concealed carry permit issued by your local circuit court.
Is online concealed carry training valid in Virginia?
No- it was allowed during COVID but has since been changed to in-person training only. In-person training from trusted providers like Open Arms Instruction is always accepted and preferred for quality and compliance.
Where can I not carry a concealed firearm, even with a permit?
Virginia law prohibits concealed carry in:
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Courthouses
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Schools
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Airport terminals
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Federal buildings
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Private property where firearms are banned (with proper signage)
Always check local ordinances and signage to avoid violations.
Can I carry my concealed carry gun in other states?
Virginia has reciprocity agreements with many other concealed carry states. Always verify the local laws before crossing state lines, as some states have additional restrictions.
What happens if my concealed weapons permit expires?
You may apply for renewal up to 180 days before your current permit expires. If you let it lapse, you’ll need to reapply as a new applicant and may need to retake a training course.
Can non-residents apply for a Virginia concealed carry permit?
Yes. Virginia offers non-resident concealed carry permits. The application process is slightly different and handled through the Virginia State Police. Non-residents must still provide proof of training.
Is my Virginia concealed carry permit valid for rifles or shotguns?
No. The Virginia CCW permit only covers handguns. Rifles, shotguns, and other firearms fall under different laws and do not require a concealed carry permit.
What type of training is required for a Virginia CCW permit?
Virginia requires applicants to complete a firearms safety course or concealed carry class by an approved instructor. This may include in-person training or military/law enforcement experience documentation.
What are the benefits of concealed carry vs. open carry?
Concealed carry offers:
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Greater personal security
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Less public attention or confrontation
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Tactical advantage in self-defense scenarios
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Legal carry across more states via reciprocity
All You Need to Know About The Virginia Concealed Carry Permit in Chantilly, VA
If you live in Chantilly, Virginia, and want to take your firearm training and personal protection to the next level, obtaining your Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), often referred to as a CCW permit, is the perfect place to start. This permit allows you to carry a handgun legally and discreetly, giving you the confidence and freedom to protect yourself while staying compliant with Virginia law.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything Chantilly residents need to know about concealed carry in Virginia, from eligibility and application steps to why Open Arms Instruction is the trusted choice for concealed carry and firearm safety training in Northern Virginia.
What Is A Concealed Carry Permit?
A concealed carry permit (also called a CCW license) is a legal authorization that allows individuals to carry a handgun that is hidden from public view. In Virginia, this means your firearm must be concealed under clothing, inside a purse, or secured in your vehicle.
Carrying a hidden firearm without a valid permit is against Virginia law and may result in serious penalties. By earning your Virginia concealed carry permit, Chantilly residents can exercise their right to self-defense safely, responsibly, and legally.
What You Need to Know About A Concealed Carry Permit in Chantilly, Virginia
Chantilly, Virginia Is a “Shall-Issue” State
Virginia operates as a shall-issue state, meaning the Fairfax County Circuit Court, which serves Chantilly residents, must issue a concealed carry permit if all legal qualifications are met. This ensures a fair, transparent process for law-abiding citizens.
Who Can Apply for a Virginia Concealed Carry Permit in Chantilly, VA?
To qualify for a Virginia concealed carry permit in Chantilly, you must:
Be 21 years or older
Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
Reside in Virginia or own property in the Commonwealth
Successfully complete a state-approved concealed carry or firearm safety class
Have no felony convictions or disqualifying mental health issues
Not be under any protective order or active criminal indictment
Permit Validity and Renewal
A Virginia CCW permit is valid for five (5) years
You can renew your permit up to 180 days before it expires
Renewal may not require a new class, but ongoing training is highly recommended
Reciprocity with Other States
Virginia’s concealed carry permit is recognized in over 30 states, giving Chantilly residents the ability to carry legally across most of the U.S. Always check each state’s laws before traveling, as firearm regulations vary.
How to Get A Virginia Carry Permit
The process for obtaining your concealed carry permit in Chantilly, VA, is simple, but accuracy and preparation are key.
Step 1: Take a Concealed Carry Class
All applicants must complete a state-approved firearm safety or concealed carry course before applying. At Open Arms Instruction, we offer Virginia concealed carry classes near Chantilly designed for both new and experienced gun owners. Our courses are fully approved and focus on practical, real-world firearm safety. You’ll learn:
Firearm handling and safety fundamentals
Virginia concealed carry laws and use-of-force regulations
Safe storage and transport of handguns
Situational awareness and conflict avoidance
Defensive mindset and decision-making under stress
We also offer other private gun classes such as advanced pistol, AR-15, and home-defense courses for those seeking further training.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Before submitting your application, make sure you have:
Completed Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit application form
Training certificate from your CCW class
Valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
Proof of residence in Chantilly (utility bill, lease, or mortgage)
Permit fee payment (Virginia caps it at $50)
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Submit your completed application to the Fairfax County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office, either in person or by mail. Be sure to double-check that all details are correct to avoid processing delays.
Step 4: Background Check & Processing
The Circuit Court will run a background check to verify your eligibility. If approved, your Virginia concealed carry permit will be mailed to you within 45 days. If the process takes longer, Virginia law requires that you be issued a temporary permit so you can legally carry until your permanent one arrives.
Why Should You Get A Virginia Carry Permit in Chantilly, VA at Open Arms Instruction?
When it comes to firearms education and concealed carry training, Open Arms Instruction is recognized across Northern Virginia for its professionalism, real-world instruction, and commitment to safety.
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
Whether you’re brand new to firearms or an experienced shooter, our Chantilly concealed carry classes are structured to meet your learning needs. Every student leaves confident in their safety, marksmanship, and legal awareness.
3. Emphasis on Real-Life Scenarios
We don’t just lecture, we teach practical application. Through scenario-based training, you’ll develop the decision-making and situational awareness skills necessary for real-life concealed carry situations.
4. Small Group and Private Sessions Available
We offer small-group, private, and women-only concealed carry classes throughout Chantilly and Fairfax County, giving you flexible scheduling and a comfortable, supportive learning environment.
5. Bonus: Continuing Tactical Training
After earning your Virginia CCW permit, you can continue to build your knowledge with tactical pistol, AR-15, and home-defense training for ongoing skill development and readiness.
Conclusion
Earning your Virginia concealed carry permit in Chantilly is about more than fulfilling a legal requirement. It’s about taking responsibility for your personal safety and learning to carry with confidence.
At Open Arms Instruction, we make that process simple, educational, and empowering. You’ll gain the legal understanding, firearm safety knowledge, and real-world confidence to carry responsibly anywhere in Virginia. Take the next step toward becoming a confident, prepared concealed carrier by signing up for your Chantilly concealed carry class with Open Arms Instruction, Northern Virginia’s trusted leader in firearms and CCW training.
