Virginia Concealed Carry Permit in Falls-Church VA

If you’re a gun owner or first-time firearm carrier in Falls Church, Virginia, getting your Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), also known as a CCW permit, is the key to carrying legally and responsibly. A concealed carry permit allows you to protect yourself and your loved ones while staying compliant with Virginia’s firearm laws.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to apply for your Virginia concealed carry permit in Falls Church, who qualifies, and why Open Arms Instruction is the preferred training provider for responsible citizens across Northern Virginia.

What Is A Concealed Carry Permit?

A concealed carry permit, or CCW license, is an official authorization from the Commonwealth of Virginia that allows individuals to carry a handgun hidden from public view. “Concealed” means the firearm cannot be visible, typically worn under clothing, in a bag, or secured inside a vehicle.

Without a permit, carrying a concealed firearm is illegal and can lead to legal penalties. By earning your Virginia concealed carry permit, Falls Church residents can lawfully and safely exercise their right to self-defense with confidence and peace of mind.

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

Falls Church, Virginia Is a “Shall-Issue” State

Virginia operates as a shall-issue state, meaning that once an applicant meets all legal qualifications, the Falls Church Circuit Court must issue the concealed handgun permit. This ensures equal access and consistent approval for qualified residents statewide.

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

To be eligible for a Virginia CCW permit in Falls Church, applicants 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

• A Falls Church, 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 Falls Church gun owners 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

Applying for your Virginia concealed carry permit in Falls Church is straightforward, but accuracy and preparation make all the difference. Here’s how to do it right:

Step 1: Take a Concealed Carry Class

Virginia law requires all applicants to complete a recognized firearms safety or concealed carry course.

At Open Arms Instruction, we provide Virginia concealed carry classes near Falls Church that meet all legal standards while offering practical, real-world training. You’ll learn:

• Firearm safety and handling fundamentals

• Virginia concealed carry laws and legal use of force

• Conflict avoidance and situational awareness

• Safe firearm storage and transport

• Mindset training for responsible concealed carry

We also offer other private gun classes like advanced pistol, AR-15, and home-defense courses for those who want to expand their defensive skills.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To apply for your Falls Church concealed carry permit, you’ll need:

• A completed Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit application form

• Certificate of completion from your CCW course

• A valid government-issued photo ID

• Proof of residency in Falls Church (e.g., lease, utility bill, or mortgage document)

• Permit fee payment (Virginia law caps the total cost at $50)

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Submit your paperwork to the Falls Church Circuit Court Clerk’s Office, either in person or by mail. Be sure to review every document carefully before submission to avoid processing delays.

Step 4: Background Check & Processing

The court will perform a background check to ensure eligibility. If approved, your Virginia concealed carry permit will be mailed to you within 45 days. If processing takes longer, Virginia law requires the issuance of a temporary permit, allowing you to legally carry until your permanent one arrives.

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

When you choose Open Arms Instruction, you’re not just signing up for a class but joining one of Virginia’s most respected firearms training programs. We combine expert instruction, hands-on learning, and a strong emphasis on legal understanding to ensure every student leaves confident and prepared.

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 a beginner or an experienced gun owner, our Falls Church concealed carry classes are designed to meet you at your comfort level. Every session focuses on safe handling, defensive readiness, and legal compliance.

3. Emphasis on Real-Life Scenarios

More than laws and safety, we prepare you for real-world encounters. Through scenario-based drills, you’ll practice judgment, decision-making, and situational control under realistic conditions.

4. Small Group and Private Sessions Available

We offer small-group, private, and women-only concealed carry classes throughout Falls Church and Northern Virginia, ensuring personalized attention and a comfortable learning experience.

5. Bonus: Continuing Tactical Training

Once you’ve earned your Virginia concealed carry permit, you can continue training with tactical pistol, AR-15, and home-defense courses to strengthen your confidence and preparedness.

Conclusion

Getting your Virginia concealed carry permit in Falls Church is about meeting state requirements and becoming a responsible, informed, and confident gun owner. At Open Arms Instruction, we make that process simple, supportive, and professional. You’ll learn from experienced instructors who care about safety, legality, and personal empowerment.

Take charge of your security today. Sign up for your Falls Church concealed carry class with Open Arms Instruction, Northern Virginia’s trusted leader in firearm safety and concealed carry training.