Man with ear protection practicing with a handgun at an indoor range

Train for Real: In Person

Training Requirements

Under § 18.2-308.02(B), the court requires proof that you demonstrated competence with a handgun in person. Accepted options include:

  1. DWR-approved (or other state) hunter education course
  2. NRA or USCCA firearms safety/training course
  3. Public class by law enforcement, college, or organization using NRA/USCCA/DCJS-certified instructors
  4. Law-enforcement/security guard firearms course
  5. Organized shooting competition, current military service, or honorable discharge
  6. Prior Virginia carry license (not revoked for cause)
  7. In-person course by a state-, NRA-, or USCCA-certified instructor
  8. Police agency firearms course with duty qualification
  9. Other training the court deems adequate

Proof: certificate copy, instructor affidavit, or other documentation. Proof of competence does not expire.

Heads up: a change is brewing (not in effect yet)

2026 HB 916 (Chapter 438) would broaden qualifying courses and remove the NRA/USCCA requirement, but only if reenacted by the 2027 General Assembly (Richmond Sunlight). VSP's site already shows the proposed wording (VSP); the Code text controls.

Questions folks ask

Do online concealed carry courses count in Virginia?

No. Competence must be demonstrated in person under § 18.2-308.02(B).

Does my training certificate expire?

No. The statute says no proof of demonstrated competence shall expire.

Does a DD-214 count?

Yes. Proof of honorable discharge from any branch of the armed services is accepted.