Big news for concealed carry permit holders in Virginia and Pennsylvania! A brand-new agreement between the two states has officially restored full reciprocity for concealed handgun permits, opening up safer, simpler carry options for law-abiding citizens on both sides of the state line.
If you travel between Virginia and Pennsylvania—or live near the border—this update directly impacts your carry rights. Here’s what you need to know:
🔹 What Changed?
In June 2025, Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares and Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday finalized and signed a mutual concealed carry reciprocity agreement.
Effective immediately, this agreement allows:
- Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) holders to legally carry concealed in Pennsylvania.
- Pennsylvania License to Carry Firearms (LTCF) holders to legally carry concealed in Virginia.
This marks a major shift from previous years. Pennsylvania had not recognized Virginia permits since 2018.
🔹 Who’s Eligible to Carry Under the New Agreement?
If you’re a permit holder in either state, here’s what you need to ensure:
- ✅ You’re 21 years or older
- ✅ You hold a valid concealed carry permit (Virginia CHP or Pennsylvania LTCF)
- ✅ You carry a photo ID along with your permit
- ✅ Your permit has not been revoked or suspended
- ✅ You are only carrying a handgun, long guns are not included in this agreement
🔹 Why This Matters for You
This reciprocity agreement:
- ✅ Restores carry rights for more than 718,000 Virginia permit holders
- ✅ Makes travel between PA and VA more convenient and legally secure
- ✅ Reflects growing support for 2A rights at the state level
- ✅ Ends a seven-year break in reciprocity caused by a policy reversal in 2018
For many of us in Virginia, this means less legal confusion and more peace of mind when crossing state lines with our concealed firearm.
🔹 What You Should Do Next
Here’s how to stay legal and safe under this new policy:
- Always carry your valid permit and government-issued photo ID.
- Know the laws in each state. Virginia and Pennsylvania may have different rules regarding:
- Prohibited locations (like schools, courthouses, or parks)
- Vehicle carry regulations
- Use-of-force and duty-to-inform laws
- Follow the basics of responsible carry:
- Keep your firearm secured
- Avoid confrontations
- Be alert, not aggressive
🔹 Looking Ahead
This agreement could signal a trend toward broader reciprocity efforts nationwide. Some lawmakers are pushing again for federal concealed carry reciprocity, including the reintroduction of H.R. 38, which would require states to honor concealed carry permits across state lines, similar to a driver’s license.
While federal action is still uncertain, state-level wins like this one matter, and they’re worth celebrating.
🛡️ Final Thoughts
This new reciprocity agreement is more than a policy shift, it’s a reflection of what happens when responsible citizens, advocacy groups, and state leaders work together.
Whether you’re headed to Pennsylvania for work, a weekend trip, or to visit family, you can now carry with confidence—legally and responsibly.
Stay safe, stay sharp, and always know the laws wherever you carry.
Sources:
- USA Carry: PA and VA Finalize Firearm Reciprocity Agreement
- Virginia Office of the Attorney General
- Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office
Ready to take the next step in your firearms training? Join one of my concealed carry classes in Lynchburg, Virginia.