Firearm law reference
Washington firearm laws
A plain-English overview of the firearm rules most relevant to buying and selling in Washington — 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: Washington 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.
- Caution: Washington restricts large-capacity magazines. Magazines over 10 rounds are typically restricted.
- Important: Washington restricts "assault weapons" — certain semi-automatic firearms and features may be prohibited.
- Note: Washington has a waiting period (about 10 business days) before a firearm can be received.
- 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 Washington Attorney General or state police and consult a licensed attorney before any transfer. Last reviewed 2026-06-26.
Frequently asked
Does Washington require a background check for private firearm sales?
Yes. Washington 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 Washington?
This summary doesn't list a state permit or license requirement to buy a firearm in Washington. A dealer sale still requires the federal background check, and local rules can add requirements — verify current law.
Does Washington restrict "assault weapons"?
Yes. Washington restricts certain semi-automatic firearms and features classified as "assault weapons." Confirm a specific model and configuration is permitted before buying or selling.
Are magazine-capacity limits in effect in Washington?
Yes. Magazines over 10 rounds are typically restricted.
Is there a waiting period to receive a firearm in Washington?
Yes — about 10 business days. The federal background check must also clear before transfer.
Are there rules for buying ammunition in Washington?
This summary doesn't list state ammunition-purchase rules for Washington. 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 Washington?
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.