: You will fill out a state firearm transfer application at a licensed dealer, providing your name, address, and ID.
: You cannot be a prohibited person (e.g., convicted felon, subject to an active restraining order, or adjudicated as mentally ill). 2. Mandatory Safety Training buying a handgun in washington state
: You must be a Washington resident. Some dealers may require you to have lived in the state for at least 90 days. : You will fill out a state firearm
: The training must cover eight specific topics, including basic safety rules, secure storage, suicide prevention, and Washington laws regarding the use of deadly force. Mandatory Safety Training : You must be a
How to Buy a Handgun in Washington State (2026 Guide) Purchasing a handgun in Washington has become a multi-step process involving mandatory training, background checks, and significant waiting periods. As of 2026, the state has some of the most rigorous firearm regulations in the country. 1. Eligibility Requirements
: You must be at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun or a semi-automatic rifle.
: There is a mandatory 10-business-day waiting period for all firearm purchases. You cannot pick up your handgun until this period has elapsed and the WSP has issued a "proceed" status.