CHARLESTON — West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey announced that his office affirmed concealed carry recognition between West Virginia and seven other states.
The recognition means that those with concealed handgun licenses issued to West Virginians who are 21 years old and older will be recognized in Virginia, Alabama, Arizona, Nebraska, Nevada, Tenessee and Utah.
"Mountaineers are always free, and that includes the freedom to exercise their Second Amendment rights when traveling to other states," Morrisey said. "This is a victory for gun owners and shows respect for concealed carry licenses between states."
The West Virginia Attorney General's Office works with each state each year to continue recognition of West Virginia's concealed handgun licenses in each state and explore the potential for expansion. The attorney general anticipates all existing concealed carry recognitions to continue or be enhanced and expects more announcements as annual discussions progress.
Recognition in Virginia, Arizona and Nebraska is limited to concealed carry licenses issued to adults age 21 and older, as those states do not recognize West Virginia’s provisional licenses as issued to ages 18 to 20, which is consistent with past years.
Provisional licenses are recognized in Alabama, Nevada, Tennessee and Utah.
Recognition from these states underscores the benefit of having a concealed carry license, as many states that allow West Virginians to carry concealed within their borders do so only on the basis of the person having a West Virginia concealed carry license.
Currently, there are 16 states that recognize West Virginia concealed handgun licenses. Twelve states do not recognize licenses. The remaining states either recognize licenses with provisions or allow concealed carry without licenses, according to Attorney General's Offices' website.
Those wishing to obtain a concealed handgun license can do so by contacting their local sheriff’s office. A full list of states and information regarding concealed handgun licenses can be found on the West Virginia Attorney General's website.