New Firearm Transfer Rules in Washington Starting July 1st, 2019

 Most of Washington’s Initiative 1639 took effect on July 1st, 2019.

Here’s what’s new (and what stays the same):

 

SEMI-AUTOMATIC RIFLES: (aka “SAR”; incl. .22’s)

  • New: must be 21 years old to purchase or transfer;

  • New: $18 fee per SAR to WA State for purchase or transfer;

  • New: must provide proof of completion of a recognized ‘firearm safety training program’ within the past five years;

  • New: ‘enhanced’ background check now goes through local Law Enforcement Agency (“LEA”) where purchaser resides;

  • New: 10 business day waiting period before pickup;

  • New: must be a Washington resident to purchase or transfer;

  • Same: semi-automatic rifles are fun to shoot, and law-abiding citizens are the only ones who follow the law!

HANDGUNS:

  • Same: must be 21 years old to purchase or transfer;

  • Same: must be a Washington resident to purchase or transfer;

  • New: all handgun background checks now go through local LEA (no longer using the ‘instant’ Federal system for CPL-holders);

  • New: no more same-day pickup for CPL holders (background check written results must first come back from local LEA, otherwise 10 business days must pass – whichever comes first);

  • Same: handguns are a great and versatile option for sport shooting and personal protection – not much has changed!

OTHER LONG GUNS: (shotguns, bolt / lever rifles, etc.)

  • Same: must be 18 years old to purchase or transfer;

  • Same: same-day pickup allowed with instant background check;

  • Same: not required to be a Washington resident for purchase or transfer (must be allowed under your state’s laws);

  • Same: no new fees, waiting periods, forms or processes.

‘OTHER’ FIREARMS: (lower receivers, frames, etc.)

  • Same: must be 21 years old to purchase or transfer;

  • Same: same-day pickup allowed with instant background check;

  • Same: must be resident of Washington state;

  • Same: no new fees, waiting periods, forms or processes.

GENERAL / ALL FIREARMS:

  • Secure Gun Storage: provisions of I-1639 provide criminal liability if firearms are accessed and used by a prohibited person and were not stored with “secure gun storage” (in a securely locked safe / cabinet, or with a trigger lock).

 

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate these complex new rules to keep it as simple as possible for you!

 

 NEW FIREARM TRANSFER RULES STARTING JULY 1ST (page 1)↢ (click here to download a printable PDF version)

This summary is provided for informational purposes only, is not exhaustive, and is not to be construed as legal advice. Dave’s Sports Shop takes responsibility for the proper transfer of firearms to their own purchasers and transferees, but cannot provide legal advice to individuals or other dealers, who should contact a qualified attorney for advice specific to their situation. Thank you for taking the time to read this far – attention to detail goes a long way!