Firearm law reference
Virginia firearm laws
A plain-English overview of the firearm rules most relevant to buying and selling in Virginia — private-sale background checks, permits to purchase, restricted-firearm and magazine rules, handgun roster, waiting periods and ammunition. Federal law applies everywhere on top of these state rules.
At a glance
Reviewed 2026-06-26
What to watch for
- Important: Virginia requires private firearm transfers to go through a licensed dealer (background check).
- Caution: Interstate transfers must ship to a licensed dealer (FFL) in the buyer's state for the background check; a private buyer can't take a handgun across state lines.
- Note: Never transfer to a prohibited person or complete a straw purchase (buying for someone else) — both are federal crimes.
General information, not legal advice. Firearm laws change frequently and city or county ordinances may add requirements this summary doesn't capture. Verify the current law with the Virginia Attorney General or state police and consult a licensed attorney before any transfer. Last reviewed 2026-06-26.
Frequently asked
Does Virginia require a background check for private firearm sales?
Yes. Virginia requires private firearm transfers to go through a licensed dealer (FFL), who runs the background check.
Do you need a permit or license to buy a firearm in Virginia?
This summary doesn't list a state permit or license requirement to buy a firearm in Virginia. A dealer sale still requires the federal background check, and local rules can add requirements — verify current law.
Does Virginia restrict "assault weapons"?
Virginia does not have a state "assault weapons" ban, though federal rules still apply.
Are magazine-capacity limits in effect in Virginia?
Virginia does not impose a state large-capacity magazine limit.
Is there a waiting period to receive a firearm in Virginia?
Virginia does not impose a state waiting period, though the federal background check must still clear before transfer.
Are there rules for buying ammunition in Virginia?
This summary doesn't list state ammunition-purchase rules for Virginia. Federal law still bars prohibited persons from possessing ammunition, and dealers can't sell handgun ammunition to anyone under 21 or other ammunition to anyone under 18.
Buying or selling in Virginia?
Rangium shows these state-specific notes right on every listing, and Vanta can answer compliance questions against your own inventory. Rangium is a neutral listings venue — it never processes payment or ships firearms.