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Virginia Concealed Carry Permit in Mount Vernon VA

Get Trained. Get Certified. Carry With Confidence.

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.

Shooting Target

Practical, real-world safety training

Sniper Rifle

Friendly, judgment-free learning environment

Handguns

Clear instructions on Virginia concealed carry laws

Weapon Sight and Barrel

Options for beginner and advanced students

Pistol Bullets

Scenario-based situational awareness techniques

Rifle Bullets

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:

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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

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:

  • Courthouses

  • Schools

  • Airport terminals

  • Federal buildings

  • 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:

  • Greater personal security

  • Less public attention or confrontation

  • Tactical advantage in self-defense scenarios

  • Legal carry across more states via reciprocity

All You Need to Know About The Virginia Concealed Carry Permit in Mount Vernon, VA

If you’re a firearm owner in Mount Vernon, Virginia, looking to carry legally and responsibly, earning your Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), also known as a CCW permit, is the key step. A concealed carry permit empowers you to protect yourself and your loved ones while staying compliant with state and federal firearm laws.

In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through how to apply for your Virginia concealed carry permit in Mount Vernon, what’s required, and why Open Arms Instruction is Northern Virginia’s top choice for concealed carry and firearm safety training.

What Is A Concealed Carry Permit?

A concealed carry permit, or CCW license, is a legal authorization that allows citizens to carry a handgun hidden from public view. “Concealed” means your firearm cannot be visible, typically carried under clothing, in a bag, or in your vehicle.

Carrying a concealed firearm without a valid permit is illegal in Virginia and can result in serious penalties. With a Virginia concealed carry permit, Mount Vernon residents can exercise their right to self-defense while remaining fully compliant with state regulations.

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

Mount Vernon, Virginia Is a “Shall-Issue” State

Virginia is a shall-issue state, which means the Fairfax County Circuit Court, serving Mount Vernon residents, must issue a concealed carry permit once all legal requirements are met. This ensures fair and consistent approval across the Commonwealth.

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

To qualify for a Virginia concealed carry permit in Mount Vernon, 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 CCW permit is recognized in over 30 states, allowing Mount Vernon permit holders to carry legally across much of the U.S. However, firearm laws differ by state, so always check local carry laws before traveling.

How to Get A Virginia Carry Permit

Obtaining your concealed carry permit in Mount Vernon, VA, is a straightforward process when you follow the proper steps.

Step 1: Take a Concealed Carry Class

Before you can apply, you must complete a state-approved firearm safety or concealed carry course. At Open Arms Instruction, our Virginia concealed carry classes near Mount Vernon are taught by certified instructors with decades of experience. Our courses are designed to help you meet legal requirements while building real-world firearm confidence. You’ll learn:

  • Firearm safety fundamentals and handling techniques

  • Virginia concealed carry laws and legal use of deadly force

  • Situational awareness and conflict avoidance

  • Safe storage and transportation of firearms

  • Developing a defensive mindset and responsible carry habits

We also offer other private gun classes like advanced pistol, AR-15, and home-defense courses for those who wish to continue their training.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You’ll need to prepare the following items for your Mount Vernon concealed carry permit application:

  • 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 (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement)

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

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Submit your application to the Fairfax County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office, either in person or by mail. Double-check your documents to avoid processing delays.

Step 4: Background Check & Processing

The Circuit Court will conduct a background check to verify your eligibility. If approved, your Virginia concealed carry permit will arrive in the mail within 45 days. If the process takes longer, you’ll receive a temporary permit allowing you to carry legally until your permanent one arrives.

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

When it comes to firearms safety and concealed carry education, Open Arms Instruction stands out for professionalism, experience, and real-world results. We go beyond theory to give you the confidence and knowledge to carry safely and lawfully.

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 Mount Vernon concealed carry classes are ideal for everyone, from you’re brand new to firearms to a seasoned gun owner. We make training accessible, engaging, and focused on responsible ownership.

3. Emphasis on Real-Life Scenarios

We prepare you for real-life defensive situations using scenario-based instruction, helping you understand how to make sound, lawful decisions under pressure.

4. Small Group and Private Sessions Available

We offer small-group, private, and women-only concealed carry classes in Mount Vernon and the surrounding Northern Virginia areas, so you can train in a comfortable, supportive environment.

5. Bonus: Continuing Tactical Training

After obtaining your Virginia concealed carry permit, we encourage ongoing learning through tactical pistol, AR-15, and home-defense courses to maintain skill and confidence.

Conclusion

Earning your Virginia concealed carry permit in Mount Vernon is more than a legal step. It’s a commitment to safety, preparedness, and confidence.

At Open Arms Instruction, we provide professional, hands-on training that equips you with the skills and legal understanding needed to carry responsibly throughout Virginia. Take control of your personal protection today and register for your Mount Vernon concealed carry class with Open Arms Instruction, Northern Virginia’s trusted firearms training school.

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