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District of Columbia Concealed Carry Laws (2026)
Restricted: The District of Columbia requires a permit to carry concealed, and the minimum age is 21.
The District of Columbia requires a permit to carry concealed, and the minimum age is 21. DC is very restrictive: a DC Concealed Carry Pistol License from MPD is mandatory, you must own a DC-registered pistol and complete 18 hours of training, and the District recognizes no other state's permit.
Official source: mpdc.dc.gov →
General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.
Concealed Carry in states bordering District of Columbia
The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.
- MarylandRestricted
A Maryland Wear and Carry Permit is required to carry, wear or transport a handgun. The minimum age is 21 (active military and National Guard are excepted). Requirements include 16 hours of in-person training, Livescan fingerprints and a background check. Carrying without a permit is a crime; a first offense carries 30 days to 5 years in prison and/or a $250 to $2,500 fine, unless an exception applies.
Verified Oct 12, 2026 · Source: mdsp.maryland.gov · Full Maryland rule →
- VirginiaConditional
A permit is required to carry a concealed handgun on your person, and you must be 21 or older. Virginia residents get a Concealed Handgun Permit from the circuit court, which must issue it within 45 days unless the applicant is disqualified. Applicants must show handgun competence in person, by a course or other listed proof. Out-of-state permits are honored for visitors for now; that is under review.
Verified Oct 12, 2026 · Source: vsp.virginia.gov · Full Virginia rule →
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