How to Legally Carry a Firearm on Your Motorcycle in Washington State

Published on August 7, 2022
Duration: 8:26

In Washington State, carrying a firearm on a motorcycle is governed by the same laws as carrying in a vehicle. A Concealed Pistol License (CPL) is required to carry a loaded firearm in a vehicle, including a motorcycle. Without a CPL, any firearm in a vehicle must be unloaded. Displaying a firearm externally on a motorcycle is generally not considered unlawful display if done without intent to threaten or intimidate.

Quick Summary

In Washington State, a motorcycle is legally defined as a vehicle for firearm carry laws. A Concealed Pistol License (CPL) is required to carry a loaded firearm on a motorcycle. Without a CPL, any firearm must be unloaded. Open carry is permitted unloaded, and with a CPL, loaded carry is allowed in various locations on the bike.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Motorcycle Carry in WA
  2. 00:21Summertime Motorcycle Riding
  3. 00:36Vulnerability of Motorcyclists on Roadways
  4. 00:55Car vs. Motorcycle Firearm Carry Rules
  5. 01:21Sponsor: Security Gun Club
  6. 02:43Rules for Concealed/Open Carry on a Motorcycle
  7. 03:05RCW 9.41.050 Explained
  8. 03:36Motorcycle as a Vehicle for Carry Laws
  9. 03:59Open Carry Without a CPL on a Motorcycle
  10. 04:19Open Carry Requirements for Motorcycles
  11. 04:47Loaded Carry with a CPL on a Motorcycle
  12. 05:38External Holster Legality on a Motorcycle
  13. 06:32Firearm Security When Unattended on Motorcycle
  14. 07:08Penalties for Violating Carry Laws
  15. 07:27Conclusion: Motorcycle vs. Car Carry
  16. 07:48Contact Washington Gun Law

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a motorcycle considered a vehicle for firearm carry laws in Washington State?

Yes, in Washington State, a motorcycle is legally defined as a vehicle for the purposes of firearm carry laws. This means that the regulations for carrying a firearm in a vehicle also apply to carrying one on a motorcycle.

Do I need a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) to carry a loaded firearm on my motorcycle in Washington?

Yes, according to RCW 9.41.050, you absolutely need a valid Concealed Pistol License (CPL) to carry a loaded firearm on your motorcycle in Washington State. Without a CPL, any firearm in the vehicle must be unloaded.

Can I open carry a firearm on my motorcycle in Washington without a CPL?

If you do not have a CPL in Washington State, you can open carry on your motorcycle, but the firearm must be unloaded. Once the firearm is loaded, a CPL is required because the motorcycle is considered a vehicle.

Is it legal to have a firearm in an external holster on my motorcycle in Washington?

Yes, with a valid CPL, it is legal to carry a firearm in an external holster on your motorcycle in Washington. As long as the firearm is not displayed with the intent to threaten, intimidate, or cause alarm, it is not considered an unlawful display.

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