Buying a gun online in Washington and hunting rifles for Washington game
Short answer: In Washington you can buy a rifle online, but the gun must go through a licensed dealer, a background check and a waiting period. You must be 18 for a long gun. Under state law you must be 21 for a pistol or a semiautomatic assault rifle. For deer and elk, the rifle cartridge must be .24 caliber or larger.
How buying a gun online works
An online order is not a home delivery. A licensed dealer (FFL) completes the sale face to face.
- A dealer may sell a rifle or shotgun to a buyer from another state only if the buyer meets the dealer in person (27 CFR 478.99(a), 478.96(c)). Plan to use a dealer in Washington.
- You fill in ATF Form 4473 and show ID. The dealer starts a NICS background check.
- If NICS does not answer, a dealer may proceed after three business days. For buyers under 21, the hold can run up to ten business days (27 CFR 478.102).
- Federal minimum ages from a dealer: 18 for a rifle or shotgun, 21 for a handgun (27 CFR 478.99(b)).
Washington rules (from the state code)
| Topic | What the law says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Waiting period | A dealer may not deliver a firearm until ten business days have passed from the date the dealer asked for the background check. The law says "except as otherwise provided in this chapter," so some exceptions may apply. | RCW 9.41.092 |
| Training proof | In the version of the law in force until May 1, 2027, the buyer shows proof of a recognized firearm safety training program completed within the last five years. | RCW 9.41.090 |
| Permit to purchase | In the version that takes effect May 1, 2027, the buyer must produce a valid permit to purchase firearms (RCW 9.41.121). Dated as of the source text; check the current status. | RCW 9.41.090 |
| Age 21 | A person under 21 may not purchase a pistol or a semiautomatic assault rifle. Ages 18 to 20 may possess them only in limited places, such as home or own property. | RCW 9.41.240 |
| Magazines | "Large capacity magazine" means a device that accepts more than 10 rounds. Making, importing, distributing or selling one in the state is a gross misdemeanor, with limited exceptions. Check the law on possession with the state attorney general. | RCW 9.41.010, 9.41.370 |
| Assault weapons | Washington defines "assault weapon" in RCW 9.41.010. Read the full definition before you order a semiautomatic rifle. Rules on this topic have been changed and challenged, so confirm the current status. | RCW 9.41.010 |
Laws change. Check current rules with the state attorney general, state police or your dealer.
Hunting basics from WDFW
- Every hunter must carry a valid hunting license and any required tags, permits or stamps.
- If you were born after January 1, 1972, you must show proof of a hunter education class before buying your first Washington hunting license. A one-time deferral exists.
- WDFW publishes rules for deer, elk, black bear, cougar, mountain goat, moose, bighorn sheep and turkey on its big game page. Hunters must wear fluorescent hunter orange under certain conditions.
- Every hunter must file a hunter report, even if they did not hunt.
- Check the current WDFW regulation pamphlet for seasons, areas and limits.
Choosing a hunting rifle for Washington game
These cartridge rules come from the Washington Administrative Code (WAC 220-414-020 and 220-414-060).
| Use | Rule |
|---|---|
| Deer, elk, other big game (centerfire) | Cartridges smaller than .24 caliber are not allowed. |
| Cougar (centerfire) | Cartridges smaller than .22 caliber are not allowed. |
| Shotgun | 20 gauge or larger, for deer, bear and cougar only. No shotgun larger than 10 gauge. |
| Muzzleloader, deer | .40 caliber or larger. |
| Muzzleloader, other big game | .45 caliber or larger. |
Check the caliber of any rifle against these rules before you buy. Rules may change, so read the current WDFW pamphlet. Beyond that, choose a rifle you can shoot well, with a scope and ammunition you can practice with.
FAQ
Can I have a rifle shipped to my house in Washington?
No. It ships to a licensed dealer, who runs the background check and hands it to you after the required waiting time.
How old do I need to be?
Federal law sets 18 for a rifle or shotgun from a dealer. Washington sets 21 for a pistol or semiautomatic assault rifle.
Do I need hunter education?
If you were born after January 1, 1972, WDFW requires proof of hunter education before your first hunting license.
Official links
General information, not legal advice. Current as of September 2026. Laws change; check the official source before you act.
