Is Switchblade/Auto Knife Legal in District of Columbia? (2026)
No. In District of Columbia, switchblade/auto knife is prohibited. D.C. Code names switchblade knives in its possession prohibition..
Key facts
- Status
- Prohibited
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- District of Columbia
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
Switchblade/Auto Knife laws in District of Columbia
D.C. Code 22-4514(a), as served by the Council’s Law Library on October 9, 2026, expressly includes a switchblade knife in the listed items a person may not possess within the District. The paragraph’s stated official-duty and dealer exceptions list specified other weapon categories; they should not be assumed to exempt switchblade knives. Paragraph (b) separately addresses possession with intent to use unlawfully against another of the listed knives and other dangerous weapons. This explanation concerns the statute’s named switchblade category, not a determination that every assisted-opening or other knife is a switchblade, and it does not resolve every carrying, transport, federal-site or individual exception question.
Frequently asked questions
Is switchblade/auto knife legal in District of Columbia for travelers?
For travelers visiting District of Columbia, switchblade/auto knife is currently prohibited. D.C. Code 22-4514(a), as served by the Council’s Law Library on October 9, 2026, expressly includes a switchblade knife in the listed items a person may not possess within the District. The paragraph’s stated official-duty and dealer exceptions list specified other weapon categories; they should not be assumed to exempt switchblade knives. Paragraph (b) separately addresses possession with intent to use unlawfully against another of the listed knives and other dangerous weapons. This explanation concerns the statute’s named switchblade category, not a determination that every assisted-opening or other knife is a switchblade, and it does not resolve every carrying, transport, federal-site or individual exception question.
Do I need a permit for switchblade/auto knife in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia does not specifically require a permit for switchblade/auto knife, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport switchblade/auto knife through District of Columbia?
Transport laws for switchblade/auto knife in District of Columbia depend on the specific item and your route. Since this is prohibited in District of Columbia, transporting through the state carries legal risk. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for switchblade/auto knife violations in District of Columbia?
Penalties for switchblade/auto knife violations in District of Columbia vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.