Is Open Carry Legal in Washington? (2026)
Partially — Open Carry is legal with restrictions in Washington as of 2026.
Law changed in 2026: HB 1504 (mandatory firearms liability insurance) is under consideration in the 2026 legislative session. Open carry rules under RCW 9.41.270 remain unchanged. HB 1163 (purchase permit requirement) takes effect May 2027.
Quick Answer
Open carry of firearms is legal with restrictions in Washington State in 2026. Adults who are legally allowed to possess firearms may open carry without a permit on foot. However, carrying a loaded pistol in a vehicle requires a Concealed Pistol License (CPL). New legislation passed in 2025 (HB 1163) will require a permit and live-fire training to purchase firearms starting May 1, 2027.
- Age restriction: 18+ for long guns, 21+ for handguns
What the Law Says
Washington is an open carry state. However, it is a simple misdemeanor to carry a firearm in a manner that warrants alarm for the safety of others under RCW 9.41.270.
— Wash. Rev. Code § 9.41.270
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Open Carry Rules | Legal without permit for eligible adults |
| Permit Requirements | Legal through licensed dealers |
| Penalties | Prohibited in certain locations (schools, courthouses, etc.). |
| Minimum Age | 18+ for long guns, 21+ for handguns |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
In 2025, Washington passed HB 1163, which will require a permit and live-fire training to purchase firearms starting May 1, 2027. HB 2118 took effect in July 2025, imposing stricter regulations on firearms dealers. In the 2026 legislative session, HB 1504 (mandatory liability insurance) is under consideration. Open carry laws themselves have not changed — RCW 9.41.270 remains the governing statute.
Enforcement Reality
Open carry of a firearm is legal in Washington without a permit for anyone who is legally allowed to possess a firearm. However, a concealed pistol license (CPL) is required to carry a loaded pistol in a vehicle.
A common mistake is carrying a loaded pistol in a vehicle without a CPL. While open carry is legal on foot, a license is required for vehicle carry.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Washington. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Open Carry in Washington
Bottom Line
Open Carry is legal with restrictions in Washington. This activity is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Washington vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, open carrying a firearm is fully legal in 0 states, restricted in 45, and illegal in 5. Washington falls in the RESTRICTED category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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