West Virginia Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

What is the minimum age for a person to possess and transport a handgun in West Virginia without supervision?

1. 18 years old

2. 21 years old

3. 16 years old

4. 25 years old

The correct answer is: 18 years old

The minimum age for a person to possess and transport a handgun in West Virginia without supervision is indeed 18 years old. This aligns with federal law, which also establishes 18 as the minimum age for the purchase of a handgun from a private seller. West Virginia law allows individuals who are 18 years or older to carry a handgun openly or concealed without the requirement of a permit, provided they meet other legal criteria. In contrast, the other age options reflect parameters that do not apply in this context for handgun possession and transportation. For example, 21 years old is often the minimum age associated with purchasing handguns from licensed dealers due to federal restrictions, but it does not pertain to ownership for individuals who are 18 or older. Similarly, 16 and 25 years old are not relevant thresholds under current West Virginia law for unsupervised handgun possession.