Virginia Concealed Carry Permit in Manassas VA

If you’re a responsible gun owner or first-time firearm student in Manassas, Virginia, obtaining your Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), also known as a CCW permit, is a smart and proactive step toward personal protection. With a valid permit, you can carry a concealed handgun legally and confidently, ensuring that you’re both trained and compliant with Virginia’s firearm laws.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about concealed carry in Manassas, including who qualifies, how to apply, and why Open Arms Instruction is the top choice for firearm safety and CCW training in Northern Virginia.

What Is A Concealed Carry Permit?

A concealed carry permit, often referred to as a CCW license, is a legal authorization that allows qualified citizens to carry a hidden handgun in public. “Concealed” means the firearm cannot be visible. It’s usually carried under clothing, in a bag, or secured in your vehicle.

Carrying a concealed firearm without a valid permit is illegal in Virginia and can result in criminal penalties. By earning your Virginia concealed carry permit, Manassas residents can exercise their right to self-defense responsibly and legally.

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

Manassas, Virginia Is a “Shall-Issue” State

Virginia operates under a shall-issue system, which means the Prince William County Circuit Court (serving Manassas) must issue your concealed carry permit once you meet all the legal qualifications. This ensures the process is fair and consistent across the Commonwealth.

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

To qualify for a Virginia concealed carry permit in Manassas, 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 has concealed carry reciprocity with over 30 states, meaning Manassas permit holders can legally carry across much of the U.S. However, each state has its own rules. Always verify local laws before traveling.

How to Get A Virginia Carry Permit

Getting your concealed carry permit in Manassas, VA, is straightforward when you follow the proper steps.

Step 1: Take a Concealed Carry Class

Before you apply, you must complete a state-approved firearms safety or concealed carry course. At Open Arms Instruction, our Virginia concealed carry classes near Manassas are designed for both beginners and experienced shooters. Each class is interactive, practical, and fully meets Virginia’s legal requirements. You’ll learn:

• Firearm safety and handling fundamentals

• Virginia concealed carry laws and self-defense statutes

• Safe transport and storage of firearms

• Situational awareness and threat avoidance

• Real-world scenario and decision-making training

We also offer other gun classes like advanced pistol, AR-15, and home defense courses for those who want to build additional skills after earning their permit.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

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

• Completed Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit application form

• Training certificate from your approved course

• Valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport)

• Proof of residence in Manassas (e.g., utility bill, lease, or mortgage)

• Payment for the permit fee (capped at $50 under Virginia law)

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Submit your completed application to the Prince William County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office, either in person or by mail. Double-check all forms to prevent processing delays.

Step 4: Background Check & Processing

The Circuit Court will perform a background check and review your application. If approved, your Virginia concealed carry permit will arrive by mail within 45 days. If processing takes longer than that, Virginia law requires that a temporary permit be issued so you can legally carry until your permanent one arrives.

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

When it comes to concealed carry training, Open Arms Instruction is a trusted leader in Virginia firearm education. Our mission is to prepare responsible citizens with the skills, confidence, and legal knowledge to carry safely and effectively.

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 Manassas concealed carry classes are tailored for both first-time gun owners and experienced shooters. We emphasize firearm safety, legal understanding, and practical defensive skills, so every student leaves class ready to carry responsibly.

3. Emphasis on Real-Life Scenarios

We focus on real-world readiness, not just classroom learning. Through scenario-based exercises, you’ll gain hands-on experience that builds confidence and helps you make smart, lawful decisions under pressure.

4. Small Group and Private Sessions Available

Choose from small-group, private, or women-only concealed carry classes available in Manassas and the surrounding areas. Our goal is to make your training experience comfortable, personalized, and effective.

5. Bonus: Continuing Tactical Training

After earning your Virginia concealed carry permit, you can continue your training with our tactical pistol, AR-15, and home-defense courses to keep your skills sharp and your knowledge current.

Conclusion

Getting your Virginia concealed carry permit in Manassas is more than a legal requirement. It’s a commitment to responsibility, confidence, and safety.

At Open Arms Instruction, we make the process simple, professional, and empowering. Our classes equip you with the legal understanding, practical firearm knowledge, and real-world skills to carry safely anywhere in Virginia. Take the first step today and sign up for your Manassas concealed carry class with Open Arms Instruction, Northern Virginia’s most trusted firearms training provider.