CARRY STATUS
CONCEALED101SOUTH REGION · WV
West Virginia
Concealed Carry Guide
West Virginia allows permitless concealed carry for qualifying adults. Provisional and regular concealed-handgun licenses remain available through county sheriffs.
Before you rely on this guide
This is a plain-language starting point, not legal advice. Eligibility, restricted locations, local rules, court orders, and reciprocity can change. Confirm the current law with the official agencies linked on this page.
AT A GLANCE
West Virginia carry overview
STATE PERMIT
Available
ISSUING AUTHORITY
County sheriff
LAST REVIEWED
August 17, 2026
01
PERMIT AND CARRY STATUS
What the statewide framework says
West Virginia allows permitless concealed carry for qualifying adults. Provisional and regular concealed-handgun licenses remain available through county sheriffs.
02
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
Training before an application
A license applicant must provide proof of accepted handgun safety or training, including live-fire components where required by the application category.
Practical next step: Ask the issuing authority whether your instructor, course format, certificate, and live-fire qualification satisfy the current application rules before paying for a class.
Browse training in West Virginia →03
NONRESIDENTS AND TRAVEL
Crossing a state line changes the rules
West Virginia's licenses are generally for residents, with statutory exceptions. Visitors should check the Attorney General's current reciprocity information.
Reciprocity caution: Recognition of a permit does not make every rule identical. Vehicle carry, notice signs, prohibited places, duty to inform, alcohol-related locations, and magazine or firearm restrictions may differ.
VERIFY WITH PRIMARY SOURCES
Official West Virginia references
Use these sources for current application forms, eligibility language, statutory changes, and agency notices.