What to Do if Your Washington CPL is Revoked

When it comes to carrying a concealed pistol in Washington, having your Concealed Pistol License (CPL) revoked can throw a serious wrench into your plans. Suddenly, the freedom you enjoyed isn’t just put on hold—it can feel like a hard stop! You might find yourself asking, “What should I do now?” Well, let’s break this down.

First off, if your CPL is revoked, it’s crucial to know that you’ve got 10 days to surrender your license. That’s right—10 days to physically return your CPL to the designated authority. It can be tempting to put it off, but here’s the thing: Washington state law doesn’t allow wiggle room here. Delay could mean added consequences, and nobody wants that.

Now, you might be thinking, “What if I want to challenge this decision?” Great question! You have the right to appeal the revocation within 30 days. However, here’s where it gets a bit tricky. Even if you choose to appeal, you still have to surrender your CPL within that initial 10-day window. So, don’t think the appeal process lets you off the hook for the immediate action—it doesn’t.

Perhaps you’re eyeing the option to reapply for a new license. While that’s a common thought, hold your horses! You can’t just waltz in and request a new CPL right after yours has been revoked. There are steps involved in getting your license reinstated, which might end up including that very appeal. You’ll need to jump through a few hoops before you can even think about applying again.

And what about those courses—like a firearms safety course? While that might sound like a responsible move (and it is), it doesn’t address the immediate requirement of surrendering your revoked CPL. Completing a firearms safety course is a great step towards reinstatement, but it doesn’t fulfill the legal obligation once revocation occurs.

So, what’s the key takeaway here? If your CPL gets revoked, don’t panic but don’t delay either. Get that CPL surrendered within 10 days, and start researching your options for an appeal if you believe the revocation was unjust or based on incorrect information. The legal landscape around firearms can feel like uncharted territory, especially when it comes to nuances in regulations and procedures, but arming yourself (pun intended) with knowledge puts you in a better position to navigate it.

In conclusion, remember that being informed is your best defense. Knowing the required actions will not only keep you compliant with the law but also set you on the right path toward possibly reclaiming your rights to carry. So take a breath, stay informed, and tackle the process one step at a time!