<P> In 2011, the Virginia Supreme Court found that the language used by George Mason University (GMU) to "...not impose a total ban of weapons on campus . Rather, the regulation is tailored, restricting weapons only in those places where people congregate and are most vulnerable--inside campus buildings and at campus events . Individuals may still carry or possess weapons on the open grounds of GMU, and in other places on campus not enumerated in the regulation ." </P> <P> There are age restrictions on the possession of firearms and some people are prohibited from possessing firearms due to certain criminal convictions . Licensed dealers must have the Virginia State Police conduct a background check prior to completing the sale of certain firearms . Persons who are not in the business of selling firearms, but make occasional, private sales, are not required to perform a background check before selling their firearms . Before July 1, 2012, a person could not purchase more than one handgun per 30 - day period, though some exceptions applied; most significantly, holders of valid Concealed Handgun Permits (CHP) from Virginia were exempt from this restriction . The bill that repealed the "one - handgun - a-month law" was signed into law by Governor Bob McDonnell on February 28 of that year . </P> <P> Open carry of a handgun without a permit is legal in Virginia at age 18, withstanding other applicable laws . Concealed carry of a handgun is allowed for persons who hold a valid CHP (concealed handgun permit), comply with certain restrictions, or who hold certain positions . Virginia shall issue a CHP to applicants 21 years of age or older, provided that they meet certain safety training requirements and do not have any disqualifying criminal convictions . Consuming an alcoholic beverage in ABC on - premises licensed restaurants and clubs, while carrying a concealed handgun, is prohibited; nor may any person carry a concealed handgun in a public place while under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs . Any person permitted to carry a concealed firearm may not carry one in such manner in a public place while intoxicated . Possession of a firearm can compound the penalty for various other offenses, including illegal drug possession . Open carry while intoxicated is not addressed in the law and can presumed to be legal unless otherwise specified . </P> <P> There are some restrictions on the use of weapons . Brandishing a firearm is punishable by up to a year in jail . </P>

Can you carry a gun in virginia without a permit