West Virginia Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

Which of these is a valid reason for denying a concealed carry permit application in West Virginia?

1. The applicant does not own a firearm

2. The applicant has a non-violent felony conviction

3. The applicant has a history of mental illness

4. The applicant is under 25

The correct answer is: The applicant has a history of mental illness

Denying a concealed carry permit application due to the applicant not owning a firearm (A), having a non-violent felony conviction (B), or being under 25 years of age (D) are not valid reasons in West Virginia. The state does not require the applicant to already own a firearm, does not automatically disqualify those with non-violent felony convictions, and does not have any minimum age requirement for obtaining a concealed carry permit. However, the state does consider a history of mental illness (C) as a valid reason for denying a concealed carry permit application. This is because individuals with certain mental illnesses may pose a risk to themselves or others if carrying a concealed weapon.