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Virginia

VA
moderate

Firearm Regulations

Assault Weapon Ban
Partial (definition-based)
Mag Capacity Limit
No (20+ makes "assault weapon")
Permit to Purchase
No
Firearm Registration
Machine guns only
Concealed Carry
Shall Issue
Open Carry
Yes (some localities restrict semi-autos)
Red Flag Law
Yes
Background Check (Private)
Yes (since July 2020)
NFA Weapons
Machine guns must be registered
State Preemption
Yes (most laws)

Key Notes

Semi-auto rifles with certain features are "assault weapons" requiring age 18+ (long arms) or 21+ (pistols). Mags over 20 rounds make a firearm an assault weapon.

  • •Partial (definition-based) Assault Weapon Ban — Semi-auto rifles with folding stocks, 20+ round magazine capability, or suppressor-ready features are classified as 'assault weapons' with age restrictions (18+ for long arms, 21+ for pistols).
  • •No (20+ makes "assault weapon") Mag Limit — There is no outright magazine capacity ban. However, magazines over 20 rounds cause the firearm to be classified as an assault weapon, triggering additional restrictions.
  • •Machine guns must be registered (NFA) — Machine guns must be registered with the state. SBRs, SBS, suppressors, and destructive devices are legal with the federal tax stamp.
  • •Shall Issue (Concealed Carry) — Virginia must issue a concealed handgun permit to qualified applicants. Online training is accepted.
  • •Yes (since July 2020) Background Check Private — All private sales require a background check since July 2020.
  • •Yes (Red Flag Law) — Virginia has a Substantial Risk Order allowing law enforcement and attorneys to petition for temporary firearm removal.

Last updated January 15, 2026

VTWA

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