What do Instructors Teach In A Concealed Carry Class?
Here’s everything you need to know about concealed carry classes:
Completing a concealed carry course is required to apply for your concealed carry permit. These courses help you become a safer, more knowledgeable gun owner. Some of the topics covered in a concealed carry class include:
- Learning how to clean, disassemble, and assemble your firearm correctly.
- Understanding the laws surrounding carrying a concealed handgun.
- Showing proficiency with shooting your gun at different distances.
- Acquiring knowledge surrounding safe methods of transporting and maintaining your firearm.
- Becoming aware of your legal rights as a citizen in self-defense situations.
- Thoroughly understand the responsibilities of becoming a concealed carry permit holder.
- Studying different pistol techniques.
Learn more about the benefits of CCW classes.
What Is a Concealed Carry Permit?
A concealed carry permit is also known in Colorado as a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP). It is a legal authorization that allows an individual to carry a handgun in a concealed manner on their person or in their belongings. In Colorado, concealed carry is regulated at the state level, and individuals must meet specific qualifications and complete an approved training course to apply. Obtaining a concealed carry permit signifies that the permit holder has received proper education in firearm safety, handling, and storage. Whether you’re a first-time gun owner or someone with years of experience, understanding and obtaining this permit is the first step toward safe and legal concealed carry.
Legal Requirements in Colorado
Colorado has clear laws in place to ensure that only responsible and qualified individuals are granted a Concealed Handgun Permit. Before you can legally carry a concealed handgun in Colorado, you must be:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a legal resident of Colorado
- Pass a background check (including fingerprinting and a criminal history review)
- Demonstrate handgun competency through a certified firearms safety course
- Not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm (this includes individuals with certain criminal convictions, restraining orders, or mental health adjudications)
Additionally, Colorado is a “shall-issue” state, meaning if you meet all legal criteria, the sheriff of your county must issue you a permit. It’s also important to understand where concealed carry is restricted in Colorado. These include government buildings, K-12 schools, and specific private properties that prohibit firearms. Understanding and meeting these legal requirements is essential not only to obtain your permit, but also to carry confidently and within the law.
Renewal & Continuing Education
Once you’ve earned your concealed carry permit in Colorado, it’s essential to stay up to date on both your legal responsibilities. A Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit is valid for five years. After your permit is up, you can no longer carry your firearm legally. Once your permit is up, you must renew it to conceal carry legally.
Renewal Process:
To renew your permit, you’ll need to apply through the sheriff’s office in your county of residence. The renewal process typically includes:
- A renewal application
- A valid form of ID
- Proof of residency
- A renewal fee
- A recent photograph (requirements vary by county)
Continuing Education:
Many responsible gun owners choose to take refresher courses or advanced concealed carry training throughout the life of their permit. These classes often cover:
- Updates on Colorado firearm laws
- Real-life defensive scenarios
- Safe firearm handling and storage
- Conflict avoidance and de-escalation tactics
Regular training helps improve your firearm skills and confidence, especially if you rarely use your firearm. Continuing education also reinforces your legal and ethical responsibilities as a permit holder. Well beyond your permit’s expiration date, staying informed and practicing regularly is key to being a safe and responsible concealed carrier.
How Can I Prepare For A Concealed Carry Class?
You can take a few steps to become the most responsible gun owner possible:
- Decide where you’re going to store your gun.
- As a gun owner, it’s crucial to have a place in your home where you can safely store your weapon. It should be a place that allows quick access. It should also be protected from unwanted hands. Research your storage options and decide which solution works best for you.
- Begin to understand the complexities of situational awareness.
- Situational awareness is hard to master but highly beneficial for those carrying a concealed handgun. Situational awareness is the skill of thoroughly focusing on your surroundings and quickly assessing if anything seems out of place while creating an immediate plan of action for defense.
- Consider purchasing concealed carry insurance.
- Concealed carry insurance, also known as self-defense insurance, is designed to legally and financially cover individuals who end up in court following a self-defense situation.
What Happens After A Concealed Carry Course?
After completing your concealed carry permit course, there are a few steps you need to take to acquire your permit:
- First, you want to submit your permit application.
- Upon completing your course, you’ll receive a certificate of completion. This certificate is a requirement to apply for a concealed carry permit.
- While you’re waiting to receive your concealed carry permit, practice the different carrying methods you learned in the course and decide which one is most comfortable for you.
- You can walk around your home with other holsters and experiment with different gun positions until you find a method you like.
- Lastly, you’ll want to create a practice strategy to continually build your shooting skills.
- It would help if you researched different shooting ranges and shooting courses, then signed up for some classes you think you’ll like. It’s important to continuously practice the skills you learned in your concealed carry course to remain ready for any self-defense situation.
Cost & Value
When considering a concealed carry class, knowing the upfront cost and the long-term value of your investment is essential. In Colorado, the price for a concealed carry class typically ranges from $200 to $350. This price is dependent on the instructor, location, and course length. Some classes may include added benefits such as fingerprinting services, application guidance, or even range time, which can influence the overall price.
The value of proper training far outweighs the expense. A quality concealed carry class provides essential education on firearm safety, Colorado-specific laws, conflict avoidance, and correct handling techniques needed to carry your firearm legally. Additionally, investing in a reputable course could help you avoid costly legal trouble down the road by ensuring you fully understand your rights and responsibilities.
Yes, Colorado requires a valid Concealed Handgun Permit to legally carry a concealed firearm in most public places, with few exceptions. Open carry is allowed in some areas, but concealed carry without a permit is illegal.
No. In Colorado, concealed carry classes must include in-person instruction.
Each class is different, but most require you to bring a valid photo ID, a notebook and pen, and sometimes your firearm and ammunition (check with the instructor). Range time may also require safety gear like ear and eye protection.
Most classes include a written exam and or a live-fire qualification to ensure you understand firearm safety and handling. Passing these assessments is typically required to receive your training certificate.
Yes, Colorado has reciprocity agreements with several other states. However, not all states recognize a Colorado CHP, so always check local laws before carrying across state lines.
Enroll In A Concealed Carry Class Taught By Colorado Handgun Safety
Suppose you’re interested in getting your concealed carry permit, or you need to complete a concealed carry course to renew your permit. In that case, Colorado Handgun Safety is the perfect place for you! With a team of knowledgeable and skilled instructors, we’ll be able to help you become a responsible gun owner. Whether you’ve completed one of our courses before or you’re a brand-new shooter, Colorado Handgun Safety is here to help you thrive! Make sure to enroll in our concealed carry permit class today and become one step closer to getting your permit.
Over the years, the interest in concealed carry permits has significantly increased. If you want to carry a concealed firearm for protection or to practice your Second Amendment, you should complete a concealed carry class. Plus, a Colorado CCW permit has reciprocity in 33 other states, so you’ll also be able to conceal carry in those states as well. Our team of knowledgeable and skillful instructors is here to tell you everything you need to know about CCW Classes.
