Virginia Concealed Carry Permit in Reston VA

If you’re a firearm owner in Reston, Virginia, obtaining your Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), also known as a CCW permit, is an important step toward becoming a responsible and legally protected gun owner. A concealed carry permit allows you to carry your firearm discreetly for personal defense while complying with Virginia’s firearm laws.

In this complete guide, we’ll explain how Reston residents can apply for their Virginia concealed carry permit, what the process involves, and why Open Arms Instruction is Northern Virginia’s most trusted provider of concealed carry and firearms training classes.

What Is A Concealed Carry Permit?

A concealed carry permit, or CCW license, authorizes law-abiding citizens to carry a hidden handgun in public. “Concealed” means your firearm must not be visible, typically carried under clothing, in a purse, or safely secured in your vehicle.

Without a valid permit, carrying a concealed handgun is illegal in Virginia and can lead to serious penalties. With a Virginia concealed carry permit, Reston residents gain both legal protection and the peace of mind that comes from being properly trained and licensed.

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

Reston, Virginia Is a “Shall-Issue” State

Virginia operates under a shall-issue policy, which means that once you meet all the necessary requirements, the Fairfax County Circuit Court (serving Reston residents) must issue your permit. This ensures every qualified applicant can legally exercise their right to carry.

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

To qualify for a Virginia concealed carry permit in Reston, 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 maintains concealed carry reciprocity with over 30 other states, allowing Reston permit holders to legally carry across much of the U.S. However, gun laws vary, so always confirm regulations before traveling across state lines.

How to Get A Virginia Carry Permit

Applying for your concealed carry permit in Reston, VA is a straightforward process when you follow each step carefully.

Step 1: Take a Concealed Carry Class

Before you can apply, you must complete a state-approved firearms safety or concealed carry course. At Open Arms Instruction, we offer Virginia concealed carry classes near Reston that meet all state training requirements and teach practical skills every gun owner should know.

You’ll learn:

• Firearm safety and handling techniques

• Virginia concealed carry laws and use-of-force rules

• Safe storage and transport of firearms

• Conflict avoidance and situational awareness

• Defensive mindset and real-world preparedness

We also provide other gun safety courses like advanced firearm training, including AR-15, home defense, and tactical pistol courses for those who want to continue developing their skills.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You’ll need the following to apply for your Reston concealed carry permit:

• Completed the Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit application form

• Training certificate from your approved CCW class

• Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)

• Proof of residence (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement)

• Payment for the permit fee (Virginia law caps it 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. Carefully review your paperwork for accuracy before submission to avoid delays.

Step 4: Background Check & Processing

Once submitted, the Circuit Court will conduct a background check. If you meet all qualifications, your Virginia concealed carry permit will arrive in the mail within 45 days. If processing takes longer, the court is legally required to issue a temporary permit, allowing you to carry legally until your permanent one is issued.

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

When it comes to firearm safety and concealed carry training, Open Arms Instruction is trusted across Northern Virginia for its professionalism, experience, and real-world approach.

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 Reston concealed carry classes are ideal for everyone, from first-time firearm owners to experienced shooters. We make training accessible, safe, and engaging for every participant.

3. Emphasis on Real-Life Scenarios

We incorporate scenario-based training to prepare students for real-world situations. You’ll learn not just how to shoot, but how to think, react, and make sound legal decisions in high-stress moments.

4. Small Group and Private Sessions Available

We offer small-group, private, and women-only concealed carry classes throughout Reston and Fairfax County, ensuring a comfortable, personalized learning environment.

5. Bonus: Continuing Tactical Training

After earning your Virginia concealed carry permit, you can continue to refine your skills through tactical pistol, AR-15, and home-defense courses designed to keep you confident and prepared.

Conclusion

Obtaining your Virginia concealed carry permit in Reston is more than fulfilling a legal requirement. It’s a personal commitment to safety, education, and responsible firearm ownership. At Open Arms Instruction, we make that process easy, informative, and empowering. You’ll leave with both the knowledge and confidence to carry legally and safely anywhere in Virginia.

Take control of your personal protection today and register for your Reston concealed carry class with Open Arms Instruction, Northern Virginia’s most trusted firearms training school.