Washington Concealed Pistol License (CPL) Practice Exam

When selling or transferring a firearm privately in Washington, you must:

1. Conduct the transfer through a licensed firearms dealer

2. Just hand over the firearm to the buyer

3. Notify the Department of Licensing about the transfer

4. Register the firearm in the new owner's name yourself

The correct answer is: Conduct the transfer through a licensed firearms dealer

The requirement to conduct the transfer through a licensed firearms dealer is correct because it ensures that the transaction is compliant with state laws and regulations regarding background checks and record keeping. Licensed dealers are trained to handle firearm transfers legally, which includes verifying that the buyer is eligible to purchase a firearm, ensuring that necessary background checks are conducted, and maintaining proper documentation of the transfer. This process helps promote safety and accountability in firearms ownership. Other options do not meet the legal standards for transferring firearms in Washington. Simply handing over the firearm to the buyer does not account for the necessary legal protections and checks. Notifying the Department of Licensing is not required for private sales, and attempting to register the firearm in the new owner's name yourself is not permissible, as the transfer must be appropriately documented through a licensed dealer to create a proper chain of custody.