Virginia CCW Permit Requirements – Complete Guide for Fairfax & Northern VA
Everything you need to know about qualifying, applying, and securing your Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) in Fairfax County and Northern Virginia.
Virginia CCW Permit Requirements Summary
To obtain a Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) in Fairfax County or anywhere in Northern Virginia, applicants must be at least 21 years old, complete an in-person, state-approved handgun safety course, submit Form SP-266 to the Circuit Court Clerk, pay a maximum $50 fee, and pass a criminal background check. Online training is prohibited by VA Code § 18.2-308.02.
45 Days Maximum
$50.00 State Cap
5 Years (Renewable)
1. Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before submitting your application to the Fairfax County Circuit Court or your local jurisdiction, ensure you satisfy all statutory legal requirements under Virginia law:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 21 years of age.
- Residency / Status: Resident of the city or county where you file (or non-resident applying under VA non-resident provisions).
- Legal Eligibility: Must legally be permitted to purchase and possess a firearm under both federal and Virginia state law.
- No Disqualifying Records: No felony convictions, active protective orders, dishonorable military discharge, or disqualifying substance abuse convictions within specified statutory timeframes.
2. In-Person Handgun Safety Training (Mandatory)
To satisfy the proof of handgun competence requirement, applicants must complete an in-person course taught by an NRA-certified instructor or state-certified law enforcement instructor.
Live Fire Instruction provides two state-recognized, in-person training programs at the world-class NRA Range in Fairfax, VA:
NRA Basic Pistol Course
Comprehensive 6-hour course combining classroom fundamentals with live-fire range qualification. 98% pass rate.
Learn & Enroll →First Step Pistol Orientation
Express 3-hour beginner-friendly course meeting all VA CCW permit proof requirements + live fire practice.
Learn & Enroll →3. Step-by-Step Application Process in Fairfax & NoVA
- Complete Your In-Person CCW Training: Attend and pass an NRA-certified training course with Live Fire Instruction to receive your official certificate of completion.
- Download Form SP-266: Fill out the official Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit Application (Form SP-266).
- Submit Application to Circuit Court Clerk: Take your application, government ID, certificate of training, and $50 fee to your local Circuit Court (e.g., Fairfax County Circuit Court at 4110 Chain Bridge Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030).
- Background Check & Processing: The Sheriff's office/Police department conducts a background check. By law, decisions must be made within 45 days.
- Receive Your CHP Card: Upon approval, your 5-year Concealed Handgun Permit is mailed directly to your address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is in-person live fire training required for a Virginia CCW permit?
Yes. Under Virginia Code § 18.2-308.02, online training courses are strictly no longer accepted for Virginia Concealed Handgun Permits (CHP). Applicants must demonstrate competence with a handgun in an in-person, instructor-led course such as our NRA Basic Pistol Course or First Step Pistol Orientation.
What is the minimum age to apply for a Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit?
You must be at least 21 years of age to apply for a resident or non-resident Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP).
How long does it take Fairfax County Circuit Court to process a CCW permit application?
By Virginia state law (VA Code § 18.2-308.04), the Circuit Court must issue or deny the permit within 45 days of receiving your completed application. If no decision is rendered within 45 days, your certified application copy acts as a de facto temporary permit.
How much does a Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit cost?
The application fee is capped by Virginia law at $50.00 total for resident applications submitted to your local Circuit Court Clerk (e.g., Fairfax County Circuit Court).
How long is a Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit valid?
A Virginia CHP is valid for 5 years from the date of issuance. Permit holders must apply for renewal prior to expiration.
Ready to Get Certified?
Join 7,500+ graduates who earned their Virginia Concealed Carry Permit with Live Fire Instruction at the NRA Range in Fairfax, VA.
NRA Range – Fairfax, VA
