Transporting Firearms In West Virginia
The laws governing the legal use, storage and carrying of firearms are constantly changing. Below are the applicable laws in the State of West Virginia as of 1/24/2013. The below information is designed to be a guide and not the final word. If you have specific questions, please refer to West Virginia state legislation at legis.state.wv.us Another great resource is the West Virginia Citizens Defense League and can be found at wvcdl.org
Individuals who possess a valid concealed carry permit may carry a concealed handgun in a motor vehicle for purpose of self defense only. West Virginia permits anyone who can lawfully possess a handgun to carry an unconcealed handgun. If you choose to carry an unconcealed handgun in your vehicle and are stopped by a law-enforcement officer, you must understand that that the weapon will immediately attract the attention of the police officer. The presence of the weapon may lead to action by the officer to ensure his or her safety such as the drawing of his or her weapon, ordering you from the vehicle, and/or performing a pat-down search. Weapons intended for hunting must be unloaded and in a case when transported in a vehicle. It is strongly recommended that, if you do not have a valid concealed carry permit, while traveling in a vehicle, that all firearms be unloaded and cased in a location in the vehicle that is not readily accessible to any of the occupants. Any ammunition should be stored in a separate location from the firearm.