This is not legal advice.Concealed-carry reciprocity changes frequently and carries serious legal consequences. Verify current law with the destination state's official source before you carry.
← West Virginiaoverview & reciprocity
West Virginia CHL Requirements
How to get a West Virginia West Virginia Concealed Handgun License (CHL): fees, training, fingerprints, processing time, and renewal.
How to apply
- Application fee
- $75 — About $75 for a standard CHL (fee split between the sheriff and the state). The Provisional CHL (ages 18–20) fee is $15 (§61-7-4a).
- Minimum age
- Varies by class — see below
- Training
- Varies by class — see below
- Fingerprints
- Required
- Processing time
- See official source
- Validity / renewal
- 5 years, then renewal
- Residency
- West Virginia residents only
- Non-resident permit
- Not available
Permit classes — procedural details
Concealed Handgun License (CHL)
- Minimum age:
- 21
- Training:
- Required
- Fee:
- $75 (same application fee schedule for all classes)
Recommended for out-of-state reciprocity travel. The standard West Virginia CHL (§61-7-4) for applicants 21+.
Provisional Concealed Handgun License
- Minimum age:
- 18
- Training:
- Required
- Fee:
- $75 (same application fee schedule for all classes)
Primarily an in-state permit — check reciprocity before relying on it out of state. For applicants 18–20 (§61-7-4a); recognized by fewer states than the standard CHL.
Applications are processed by West Virginia County Sheriffs.
Steps to get a West Virginia CHL
- Confirm you are eligible. Be at least 21 years old and a West Virginia resident, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and not prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law.
- Complete the required firearms training. The standard CHL requires completion of an approved firearms training or safety course that includes the actual firing of a handgun (W. Va. Code §61-7-4(d)).
- Get fingerprinted. Submit fingerprints for the state and FBI background check as part of the application.
- Submit your application to West Virginia County Sheriffs. File your West Virginia Concealed Handgun License (CHL) application with West Virginia County Sheriffs. See the official page for forms and instructions.
- Pay the application fee. Pay the CHL application fee of $75. About $75 for a standard CHL (fee split between the sheriff and the state). The Provisional CHL (ages 18–20) fee is $15 (§61-7-4a).
- Receive your permit and note the renewal date. Once approved, your CHL is valid for 5 years, after which it must be renewed.
Note: West Virginia allows permitless carry, so this permit is optional in-state — but it is still worth holding for reciprocity when traveling.
Last verified 2026-07-10 against West Virginia Attorney General — Concealed Handgun Guide.
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West Virginia CHL FAQ
- What are the requirements for a West Virginia CHL?
- Applicants must be at least 21 years old, a resident of West Virginia, and submit fingerprints. The application is processed by West Virginia County Sheriffs.
- Is training required for a West Virginia CHL?
- Yes. West Virginia requires firearms training to obtain the CHL. The standard CHL requires completion of an approved firearms training or safety course that includes the actual firing of a handgun (W. Va. Code §61-7-4(d)).
- How long does it take to get a West Virginia CHL?
- West Virginia has not published a specific processing-time estimate for the CHL — check with West Virginia County Sheriffs for current wait times.
- Can non-residents get a West Virginia CHL?
- No. West Virginia generally limits the CHL to residents.
- How much does the West Virginia CHL cost, and how long is it valid?
- The application fee is $75. About $75 for a standard CHL (fee split between the sheriff and the state). The Provisional CHL (ages 18–20) fee is $15 (§61-7-4a). The permit is valid for 5 years before renewal.