Buying A Handgun In Washington State -

: You cannot be a prohibited person (e.g., convicted felon, subject to an active restraining order, or adjudicated as mentally ill). 2. Mandatory Safety Training

First-Time Gun Buyer in Washington State? Here's The Process

: There is a mandatory 10-business-day waiting period for all firearm purchases. You cannot pick up your handgun until this period has elapsed and the WSP has issued a "proceed" status. buying a handgun in washington state

: You must be a Washington resident. Some dealers may require you to have lived in the state for at least 90 days.

: You must be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun or a semi-automatic rifle. : You cannot be a prohibited person (e

Before you can even apply to buy a firearm, you must complete a recognized firearms safety training program. : The training certificate is valid for five years .

How to Buy a Handgun in Washington State (2026 Guide) Purchasing a handgun in Washington has become a multi-step process involving mandatory training, background checks, and significant waiting periods. As of 2026, the state has some of the most rigorous firearm regulations in the country. 1. Eligibility Requirements Here's The Process : There is a mandatory

Once you have your training certificate, the store-front process begins: