Washington Concealed Pistol License (CPL) Practice Exam

Upon renewal, if a CPL has already expired, what is required in Washington?

1. Applying as if it's a new application without additional fees

2. Paying a late fee in addition to the renewal fee

3. Completion of a new firearm safety training course

4. Nothing, the CPL is renewed automatically

The correct answer is: Paying a late fee in addition to the renewal fee

When a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) in Washington has expired, the renewal process becomes more complex than simply renewing an active license. Washington law stipulates that if an individual applies for renewal after the license has expired, they are required to pay a late fee along with the standard renewal fee. This policy is in place to encourage timely renewals and ensure that individuals remain compliant with the state's licensing requirements. Additionally, while the other options may seem plausible, they do not align with the actual processes established by the state. For example, applying as if it's a new application without additional fees is not accurate because the expired status changes the nature of the renewal process. Completing a new firearm safety training course is also not a prerequisite for renewing an expired license unless specific circumstances warrant it. Lastly, the notion of automatic renewal misrepresents the requirement for individuals to take action when their license has lapsed. Thus, the obligation to pay a late fee is a clear and critical component of renewing an expired CPL.