Recently, I applied to receive my concealed handgun permit within the State of Virginia. However, my application was sent back and labeled as “unable to be processed,” by the county in which I reside, stating that first time resident applications must be done in person. They quoted Virginia Code § 18.2-308.010, however, this code is in relation to renewal of permits. In particular, I believe the wording they are referring to is, “persons who previously have been issued a concealed handgun permit pursuant to this article shall not be required to appear in person to apply for a new five-year permit …” This line does not state it is a requirement for new applicants to appear in person and on the contrary Virginia Code § 18.2-308.02, which is the code relating to resident permitting, states, “… person 21 years of age or older may apply in writing to the clerk of the circuit court of the county or city in which he resides … for a five-year permit to carry a concealed handgun.”
None of these codes say that a new applicant must apply in person, nor do the State or county websites outlining the details of applying. While their reference to the renewal of permits code states that a resident renewal applicant shall not be required to appear in person, it does not state that a new applicant shall be required to appear in person either.
I will, of course, follow this red-tape procedure when my schedule allows. My biggest beef with it is simply that my local circuit courthouse only runs hours 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. during weekdays, and I work 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. every weekday. So, I’m essentially forced to miss a day of paid work to walk in and hand them a couple pieces of paper.
This is what it is, but I’m curious to hear opinions on this coding and maybe even hear some detailed explanation from someone with legal or firsthand experience with these codes. Though, I understand nothing said here constitutes legal council.