Can You Carry a Gun For Self Defense in Washington D.C.?
Carrying a handgun for self-defense in Washington D.C. is extremely difficult for non-residents due to stringent and inconvenient application processes. The District requires a valid concealed carry license issued by the Metropolitan Police Department, with an arduous in-person application process that includes fingerprinting, training certification from a select group of Maryland-based instructors, and registration of the handgun. The handgun must also be on the California, Massachusetts, or Maryland safe handgun roster, limiting options to less effective firearms. The application hours are restricted to Monday-Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, making it nearly impossible for individuals not living in the immediate vicinity to comply.




