How Washington state's new gun permit law will work

Beginning May 1, 2027, Washington will mandate permits for firearm purchases, impacting an estimated 200,000 applicants in the first year. Advocates assert that such measures can decrease gun violence and enhance public safety, as seen in states with similar laws. The legislation, enacted by Gov. Bob Ferguson, requires applicants to complete a gun safety course with live-fire training and submit fingerprints to the Washington State Patrol. Certain groups, like police and military personnel, are exempt from these training requirements.

Opponents, including gun rights advocates, argue that the law violates constitutional rights and may be challenged in court. The law also stipulates that permits will be valid for five years and can be revoked if the holder becomes legally prohibited from owning a firearm. The State Patrol anticipates receiving about 100,000 permit applications annually after the initial year. This legislation marks Washington as the 13th state to adopt a permit-to-purchase system for firearms.