Do I Need a Permit to Buy a Gun in Washington?
Woody's answers are based on published federal and state law. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
No permit is required to purchase firearms in Washington, but you must pass a background check and meet federal and state eligibility requirements. Some localities may have additional waiting periods.
What This Means for You
Washington operates under a shall-issue system for concealed carry permits but doesn't require permits for firearm purchases. You'll need to complete the standard federal background check process through a licensed dealer. The state has implemented enhanced background check requirements that go beyond federal minimums.
The Detail
Washington follows federal firearms laws for purchases, meaning you complete ATF Form 4473 and undergo a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. The state has added enhanced background check requirements that include additional screening measures beyond the federal baseline. You must be 18 or older to purchase rifles and shotguns, and 21 or older for handguns.
The state requires background checks for all firearm sales, including private party transfers with limited exceptions for immediate family members, temporary transfers for sporting purposes, and certain other specific situations. This means most private sales must go through a licensed dealer who conducts the background check. Washington also has a mandatory waiting period for semiautomatic rifle purchases.
Certain categories of people are prohibited from purchasing firearms under both federal and Washington state law. These include individuals with felony convictions, certain mental health adjudications, domestic violence restraining orders, and other disqualifying factors. Washington has some additional state-specific prohibitions that may differ from federal law.
While no purchase permit is required at the state level, some local jurisdictions may have additional requirements or waiting periods. Always verify current local ordinances in your specific city or county, as these can change and may add requirements beyond state law.
Build Impact
You can purchase components and complete firearms without a permit, but plan for background checks and potential waiting periods depending on what you're buying. Check your local jurisdiction for any additional requirements that might affect your build timeline or component sourcing.