In June 2024, Governor Jared Polis signed House Bill 24-1174 into law, introducing significant changes to Colorado’s concealed carry permit requirements. Effective July 1, 2025, these modifications aim to enhance firearm safety and ensure that permit holders are thoroughly trained.
If you’re considering applying for a concealed carry permit in Colorado, it’s crucial to understand these changes and how they may impact you. If you already have a CCW, these updates will affect you when it’s time to renew.
At Colorado Handgun Safety, we’re the leading provider of CCW classes across Colorado. We’re here to ensure you’re aware of the new requirements, provide clarity for permit holders, and help you prepare for July 1, 2025.
Keep reading to learn more.
Key Changes in Colorado’s Concealed Carry Permit Requirements
The new law, HB24-1174, introduces several important updates to the process of obtaining and renewing a concealed carry permit in Colorado.
Under previous CCW requirements, applicants had to demonstrate competency with a handgun by completing a valid concealed carry permit course within 10 years before applying.
With HB24-1174, applicants must still demonstrate competency, but only if the class meets the minimum training standards (more on that below). Additionally, applicants now have only one year to submit their application after completing the course, compared to the previous 10-year window.
Here’s what Colorado’s new CCW law is changing:
1. Minimum 8-Hour Training Requirement
Previously, Colorado law did not specify a minimum duration for CCW training courses, allowing some classes to be completed in just a few hours.
Under HB24-1174, all concealed carry training courses must now be at least eight hours long. This ensures that applicants receive comprehensive instruction on firearm safety, handling, and legal considerations before obtaining a permit.
The new law emphasizes in-depth education, covering topics such as situational awareness, de-escalation tactics, and Colorado’s self-defense laws. If you’re preparing to apply for or renew your CCW, be sure to choose a class that meets the new eight-hour minimum requirement to remain compliant.
2. Mandatory Live-Fire Training
Under the new law, all applicants must complete live-fire training as part of their concealed carry permit course. Simply attending a classroom-based course will no longer be sufficient — students must demonstrate their ability to safely and accurately handle a firearm in a controlled environment.
Previously, lecture-style CCW classes were permitted under Colorado law. That is no longer the case. After July 1, 2025, applicants must:
- Fire a minimum of 50 rounds under instructor supervision.
- Achieve at least a 70% accuracy score on a live-fire range.
By implementing live-fire training, the state aims to ensure that all permit holders have real-world experience handling a firearm before carrying concealed. If you’re considering getting your permit, you’ll want to plan for hands-on training with a certified instructor.
3. Competency Examinations
Applicants must now pass both a written exam and a live-fire exercise to demonstrate proficiency. Under previous Colorado law, these assessments were not required.
- Written Exam: An open-book test covering firearm safety and relevant laws. A passing score of at least 80% is required.
- Live-Fire Exercise: Demonstrates practical firearm handling skills under supervision.
These assessments ensure that individuals possess the necessary skills and knowledge to carry a concealed weapon responsibly.
4. Changes to Permit Renewals
If you already have a CCW permit, these law changes still affect you. Starting July 1, 2025, individuals renewing their permits must:
- Pass a written exam.
- Complete a live-fire exercise.
- Attend a refresher class lasting at least two hours.
If you pass the required assessments, your CCW permit remains valid for five years before you’ll need to renew again. These measures help keep permit holders informed about current laws and maintain their firearm proficiency.
How to Prepare for the New CCW Requirements
With the new law going into effect on July 1, 2025, you may want to start your permit process early. The increased training requirements, including live-fire exercises and longer class durations, will lead to higher class prices and limited availability.
By enrolling in a CCW class before the law changes, you can avoid price hikes and scheduling delays. If you’re planning to renew your permit in the future, it’s also wise to begin preparing now by familiarizing yourself with CCW laws and practicing at a shooting range.
Here’s how to stay ahead of the changes:
- Sign up for a class early. As demand increases, spots will fill quickly.
- Choose a certified instructor. Ensure your training meets state requirements.
- Practice at a shooting range. Build confidence for the live-fire assessment.
- Study Colorado firearm laws. The written exam will test your knowledge.
Prepare for HB24-1174 with Colorado Handgun Safety
Colorado’s new concealed carry law, effective July 1, 2025, introduces comprehensive changes aimed at enhancing the safety and competency of permit holders.
At Colorado Handgun Safety, we’re committed to ensuring you have the training, knowledge, and confidence needed to meet these new requirements. Our expert instructors provide state-compliant courses that cover everything from firearm safety and legal considerations to live-fire training and competency exams.
Don’t wait until the last minute — secure your spot in a CCW class today and stay ahead of the changes. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your permit, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
