Colorado CHP & CCW Requirements Explained

If you’re looking to carry a concealed firearm in Colorado, you must obtain a Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP)—often referred to as a CCW. While the terms are used interchangeably, CHP is the legal term under Colorado law, and the requirements to qualify are specific, structured, and strictly enforced by county sheriffs.

This article breaks down who can apply, what training is required, and the most common reasons applications are denied, based on current Colorado law.

What Is a Colorado CHP / CCW?

A Colorado CHP allows an eligible individual to legally carry a concealed handgun statewide, subject to statutory restrictions and prohibited locations. Permits are issued by the sheriff of the county where you reside, not by the state.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Colorado CHP / CCW, you must meet all of the following:

Be 21 years of age or older
Be a Colorado resident (or qualifying military member stationed in Colorado)
Be legally allowed to possess a firearm under Colorado and federal law
Not be prohibited due to:
- Certain felony convictions
- Domestic violence convictions
- Active protection or restraining orders
- Certain mental health adjudications
Provide truthful and complete information on your application

Failure to meet any of these conditions can result in denial.

Colorado CCW Training Requirements (Effective July 1, 2025)

Colorado significantly updated its CHP training requirements. Both new applicants and renewals must complete in-person training with a verified instructor.

New Applicants

Minimum 8 hours of in-person training
Training must be conducted by a verified Colorado instructor
Written exam required (minimum 80% passing score)
Live-fire qualification
- Minimum 70% accuracy
Certificate must be issued by the instructor who conducted the training

Renewals

Minimum 2 hours of in-person training
Training must be conducted by a verified Colorado instructor
Written exam required (minimum 80% passing score)
Live-fire qualification
- Minimum 70% accuracy
Certificate must be issued by the instructor who conducted the training

Training Certificate Validity

New applicant certificates: Valid for 1 year
Renewal certificates: Valid for 1 year

If your certificate expires before you apply, you must retake the class.

Application Process Overview

While each county sheriff’s office has slightly different procedures, the general process includes:

Submitting a CHP application to your county sheriff
Providing:
- Valid training certificate
- Fingerprints
- Photograph
- Applicable fees
Completing a background check

By law, the sheriff has up to 90 days to approve or deny the application.

Common Disqualifiers That Surprise Applicants

Many applicants are denied for reasons they did not expect, including:

Old criminal cases or convictions that still qualify as disqualifying offenses
Pending charges at the time of application
Active civil protection orders
Omissions or false statements on the application
Assuming another state’s permit replaces Colorado’s requirements

Even a passed class does not guarantee approval—the sheriff makes the final determination.

Common Myths About Colorado CCW Requirements

“I can take the class online.”
❌ No. Colorado requires in-person training.
“My old certificate is still good.”
❌ Certificates now expire after one year.
“Renewals don’t need training anymore.”
❌ Renewals still require in-person training and testing.
“Owning a firearm means I qualify.”
❌ Ownership and permit eligibility are not the same.

Practical Instructor Advice

From an instructor and compliance standpoint:

Apply within 3 months of taking your class
Do not wait until your permit expires to schedule renewal training
Bring magazines, 50 to 100 rounds of ammo and unloaded handgun in case
Train with the firearm you actually carry, not just what’s convenient

These steps reduce delays, denials, and unnecessary retakes.

Colorado CHP / CCW Requirements – Straight Answers

Can I take a Colorado CCW class online?
No. Colorado law requires in-person training for both new and renewal applicants. Online-only classes are not valid.

Does passing the class guarantee I’ll get my permit?
No. The class only certifies training. The county sheriff makes the final decision after a background check.

How recent does my training certificate need to be?
Both new applicant and renewal certificates are valid for one (1) year only. Expired certificates are rejected.

Do renewal applicants still have to test and qualify?
Yes. Renewals still require in-person training and a written exam, and may require live fire depending on the statute and sheriff policy.

Can I apply if my current permit is expired?
Yes, but you may lose grace-period protections and may be treated like a new applicant, depending on timing.

Does a past arrest automatically disqualify me?
No, but certain convictions, pending cases, or protection orders will. Arrests are evaluated case by case.

Can I use training from another state?
Sometimes—but only if it meets Colorado statutory requirements and is accepted by your sheriff. Many are rejected.

If I moved to Colorado, can I use my old CCW?
No. Colorado residents must obtain a Colorado CHP, regardless of permits held in other states.

How long does the sheriff have to decide?
Up to 90 days from the time your application is complete.

What’s the biggest mistake applicants make?
Using outdated training, waiting too long to apply, or assuming old rules still apply.

Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) Class

If you live in Colorado and are applying for or renewing a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), state law requires completion of a qualifying training course taught by a verified instructor. Our Colorado CHP classes meet current statutory requirements and include legal instruction, firearms safety, and required certification documentation.
View upcoming Colorado CHP classes and sign up here: Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit Class

Self-Defense Insurance

Even a lawful act of self-defense can trigger criminal investigations, civil lawsuits, and significant legal costs. Many CCW holders evaluate self-defense insurance or legal protection plans to help manage those risks—coverage varies by provider and state, so understanding the differences matters.
Learn more and compare options here: Self-Defense Insurance Comparison

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Legal Disclaimer

Legal Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Firearm laws can change, and local, state, federal, tribal, and municipal regulations may vary. Always verify current laws and consult a qualified attorney before carrying a firearm or making legal decisions related to self-defense. US Firearms Training Academy assumes no liability for actions taken based on this content.