• General Information
  • Possession of a Firearm
  • Carrying Handguns Without a License
  • Obtaining A Concealed Pistol License
  • Leaving a Pistol in A Vehicle
  • Use of a Firearm By A Minor
  • Short Barreled Shotguns and Rifles
  • The Use of Deadly Force

    Unless otherwise authorized by the exceptions below, a person under 18 years of age is guilty of the crime of unlawful possession of a firearm if the person owns or has in his or her possession, or has in his or her control, any firearm. Exceptions include persons under the age of 18 who are:

    In attendance at a firearm safety training course;

    Engaging in target practice at an established range or other legal shooting area;

    Engaging in organized competition involving use of a firearm;

    Hunting or trapping under a valid license issued by the Department of Fish and Wildlife;

    In an area where shooting is legal, is not trespassing, and is either (a) at least 14 years of age, has been issued a hunter education certificate and is using a lawful firearm other than a pistol; or, (b) under the supervision of a parent guardian, or other adult approved for the purpose by the parent or guardian;

    Traveling with any unloaded firearm for activities described in (1), (2), (3), (4) or (5) above.

    On real property under the control of his or her parent, other relative or legal guardian.

    At his or her residence and who has the permission of his or her parent.

    Members of armed forces while on duty.

    (RCW 9.41.040, RCW 9.41.042)