Virginia, Maryland, and DC Concealed Carry – Get Trained and Get Licensed in Fairfax
I would definitely recommend trouble defense. The instructors were very professional and knowledgeable I had a great experience from start... read more
Keeta B
January 26, 2026I've attended one 60 minute session with Hailey and it was great. They're professional, punctual and very patient with first... read more
Gordana Richardson
January 19, 2026This class was extremely informative and covered a wide range of self-defense topics. I highly recommend this training to anyone... read more
LaTosha French
January 18, 2026Sheena,Thank you for doing what you do! I had a great time at the range and in my class, learning... read more
Teleah Hollingsworth
January 15, 2026Great experience, took a young first-time shooter and Trouble Defense was a great way to start. 100% recommend.
Aaron Pecora
January 11, 2026Sheena was fantastic with our girls, getting them started at the range with safety first and great technique! They... read more
Sara Spinnler
January 1, 2026Great instructors and great time at the range!
Patrick Ayerle
November 23, 2025Highly recommend! Very professional and knowledgeable both in virtual training and at the range. Price is a value given knowledge... read more
A Simmons
November 23, 2025Outstanding experience. Haley our instructor was the best. Her level of patience and instructional follow through was A+, enjoyable and... read more
Swamp1FoX Va
November 22, 2025
Get Certified. Carry with Confidence. Protect Yourself & Your Loved Ones.
At Trouble Defense LLC, we offer comprehensive concealed carry (CCW) training for residents of Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Our courses provide state-approved certifications, expert instruction, and real-world self-defense training to help you legally and safely carry a firearm.
Why Choose Our CCW Training?
- ✅ Certified & Experienced Instructors – Learn from professional trainers with years of experience in firearm safety and self-defense.
- ✅ Meets State Requirements – Our courses satisfy the legal training requirements for DC Concealed Carry, Maryland Wear & Carry, and Virginia Concealed Carry permits.
- ✅ Hands-On & Classroom Training – Cover firearm laws, situational awareness, and defensive shooting techniques with live fire training.
- ✅ Convenient Location & Scheduling – We serve the DC Metro area, including Fairfax, VA, Lorton, MD, and Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C.
Concealed Carry
If you live in the D.C. Metro area and are considering carrying a concealed firearm, obtaining your Washington, D.C. Concealed Carry Permit offers a range of benefits that go far beyond personal protection. With strict regulations in place, getting permitted in the nation’s capital shows you’re a responsible and trained gun owner.
- Training hours: 16hrs
- Location: Sharpshooters 8194 M Terminal Rd Lorton, VA 22079
Maryland Concealed Carry & Handgun Qualificaton License
Maryland residents now have more access than ever to concealed carry rights thanks to recent changes in the law. If you’re thinking about applying for your Maryland Wear and Carry Permit (Maryland’s concealed carry license), there are several advantages to doing so. Don’t forget in order to purchase a firearm you need a Maryland Handgun Qualification License (HQL) From personal safety to legal protection, here’s why getting your permit is a smart move.
- Session Length: 16 Hours
- Location: Sharpshooters 8194 M Terminal Rd Lorton, VA 22079
Virginia Concealed Carry
Virginia is a shall-issue state, which means if you meet the legal requirements, you can obtain your Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) without needing to prove a special reason. While Virginia is an open carry state, there are major advantages to carrying concealed with a permit. Here are the top benefits of getting your Virginia concealed carry permit
- Session Length: 4 Hours
- Location: Sharpshooters 8194 M Terminal Rd Lorton, VA 22079
Trouble Defense teams up with U.S. Law Shield
Trouble Defense has proudly teamed up with U.S. LawShield to give our clients more than just top-tier firearm training we’re now offering legal protection too. Through this partnership, our students gain access to 24/7 legal defense coverage for self-defense incidents, exclusive member education, and peace of mind knowing they’re backed by a trusted legal network. Training saves lives protection secures futures. Click here for more recommendations.
What is the difference between open carry and concealed carry?
Open carry means carrying a visible firearm in public. Concealed carry means the firearm is hidden from view. Laws vary by state, so always check your local regulations.
📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Concealed Carry in DC, Maryland, and Virginia
Yes. In D.C., all firearms must be registered, and you must have a valid license to carry a concealed weapon (DC CCW).
Steps to Obtain a DC Firearm License:
• Be at least 21 years old
• Register your firearm through the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD)
• Complete a 16-hour firearms training course
• Submit a DC Concealed Carry application
• Pass a background check and fingerprinting
• Complete a 2-hour range session
DC CCW License Validity:
• Valid for 2 years
• Renewal requires retraining and background check
If you want to purchase a handgun in Maryland, you must first obtain an HQL unless exempt (e.g., active military, law enforcement).
Steps to Get an HQL in Maryland:
• Be at least 21 years old
• Complete a 4-hour firearms safety training
• Live scan fingerprinting
• Submit an online application to the Maryland State Police
• Pass a background check
Want to Carry a Firearm in Maryland?
Apply for the Wear and Carry Permit, which requires:
• A valid reason (e.g., personal protection)
• Additional training (minimum 16 hours)
• Shooting qualification
Permit Validity:
• HQL: 10 years
• Wear and Carry Permit: 2 years, then 3 years upon renewal
• No license needed to purchase a firearm or open carry
• Concealed Carry Permit (CCW) is required for concealed weapons
How to Get a VA Concealed Carry Permit:
• Be at least 21 years old
• Complete a firearms safety course
• Submit an application to the Circuit Court in your county
• Undergo background check
Permit Validity:
• Valid for 5 years
No. Each state/jurisdiction has its own permit system. You must apply for a concealed carry permit in each state individually. Reciprocity laws vary and DC does not honor any other state’s permit.
• DC: 21 for handguns
• Maryland: 21 for handguns, 18 for long guns
• Virginia: 21 for handguns, 18 for rifles/shotguns
Common disqualifiers include:
• Felony convictions
• Active protective orders
• Domestic violence history
• Drug addiction or mental health adjudications
• Dishonorable military discharge