If you’re applying for a Colorado Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card (FSCEC), you’ll need to complete a fingerprint-based background check before submitting your application. One of the most common questions we hear from students is, “Where do I get my background check?”
The good news is that there are several companies that offer this service. However, the cost and process can vary significantly. Below, we’ll compare a few popular options and explain why we recommend one provider over the others.
Background Check Providers for the Colorado Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card
There are several companies that provide name-based background checks for the Colorado Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card.
| Provider | Starting Price | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| TruDiligence | $30.00 | ⭐ Recommended |
| NationSearch | $65.59 | ❌ |
| Checkr | $99.99 | ❌ |
As you can see, TruDiligence offers the lowest starting price, making it an excellent option for most applicants.
Why We Recommend TruDiligence
At USFTA, we recommend TruDiligence for several reasons.
- Lowest cost at approximately $30
- Simple online application process
- Easy to complete from your computer or mobile device
- Trusted background screening provider
- Trusted Partner
Start Your Background Check Here
Do I Need My Background Check Before Taking the Firearms Safety Course?
Yes.
Before you can take the Colorado Firearms Safety Course, you’ll first need to complete the required name-based background check and obtain your Colorado Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card through your local sheriff’s office. Once your Eligibility Card has been issued, you may enroll in the required 4-hour or 12-hour Colorado Firearms Safety Course, depending on your qualifications.
What Happens After the Background Check?
What Happens After the Background Check?
Once you’ve completed your name-based background check, you’ll submit your application for a Colorado Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card through your local sheriff’s office. After your application is approved and your Eligibility Card is issued, you’ll be eligible to enroll in the required 4-hour or 12-hour Colorado Firearms Safety Course, depending on your qualifications. Upon successfully completing the course, you’ll receive your certificate, which must be presented when purchasing a qualifying firearm under Colorado law.
Take Your Colorado Firearms Safety Course
12 Hour Extended Firearms Safety Course
Designed for individuals without a qualifying Hunter Education certificate, this 12-hour course meets Colorado’s training requirements for the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card. Upon successful completion, you’ll receive the documentation needed to apply for your Eligibility Card.
4 Hour Basic Firearms Safety Course
Designed for individuals who have completed a qualifying Hunter Education course, this 4-hour class satisfies Colorado’s training requirement for the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card. Upon successful completion, you’ll receive the documentation needed to apply for your Eligibility Card.
Do I need a background check for the Colorado Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?
Yes. Colorado requires applicants to complete a name-based background check before applying for a Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card through their local sheriff’s office.
Is the background check fingerprint-based?
No. The Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card requires a name-based background check, not fingerprinting.
Where can I get a background check for the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?
Several companies offer name-based background checks, including TruDiligence, NationSearch, and Checkr. We recommend TruDiligence because it offers one of the lowest prices and an easy online process.
How much does the background check cost?
Prices vary by provider.
- TruDiligence: Approximately $30
- NationSearch: Approximately $65.59
- Checkr: Approximately $99.99
Pricing is subject to change.
Which background check provider do you recommend?
We recommend TruDiligence because it’s affordable, easy to use, and costs significantly less than many competing providers.
Can I take the Colorado Firearms Safety Course before getting my Eligibility Card?
No. You must first complete the required name-based background check and receive your Colorado Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card before enrolling in the required Firearms Safety Course.
Do I apply for the Eligibility Card before taking the course?
Yes. The Eligibility Card must be issued by your local sheriff before you can attend the required Colorado Firearms Safety Course.
What is the difference between the Eligibility Card and the Firearms Safety Course?
The Eligibility Card confirms you passed the required background check and are eligible to attend the course. The Firearms Safety Course is the required training you complete after receiving your Eligibility Card.
Is this the same background check used when buying a firearm?
No. The background check for the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card is separate from the federal background check performed by a licensed firearms dealer (FFL) when you purchase a firearm.
Can I use any background check company?
You should use a provider that satisfies Colorado’s requirements for the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card application. Always verify that you’re using the correct process before submitting your application.
How long does the background check take?
Processing times vary by provider. Completing your background check as early as possible can help avoid delays when applying for your Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card.
What happens after I receive my Eligibility Card?
Once your Eligibility Card has been issued, you may enroll in either the 4-hour or 12-hour Colorado Firearms Safety Course, depending on your qualifications.
What’s the difference between the 4-hour and 12-hour Firearms Safety Course?
Applicants who have completed a qualifying Hunter Education course may be eligible for the 4-hour course. Those who have not must complete the 12-hour course.
Where can I take the Colorado Firearms Safety Course?
US Firearms Training Academy offers both the 4-hour and 12-hour Colorado Firearms Safety Courses taught by experienced Colorado firearms instructors. After successfully completing the course, you’ll receive the documentation required under Colorado law for the purchase of qualifying firearms.
Why does Colorado require a Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?
The Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card was created under Colorado law as part of the state’s new firearm purchasing requirements for certain semiautomatic firearms. Applicants must first pass a background check, obtain an Eligibility Card, complete the required Firearms Safety Course, and then present the required documentation when purchasing a qualifying firearm.
Final Thoughts
The Colorado Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card process can seem confusing at first, but choosing the right background check provider can save you both time and money.
For most applicants, TruDiligence offers the best combination of affordability, convenience, and ease of use. At approximately $30, it’s less expensive than many competing services and is the provider we recommend to our students.
Once you’ve completed your background check, the next step is enrolling in an approved Colorado Firearms Safety Course. Our experienced instructors are here to help you complete the required training and move confidently through the application process.
Other Related Articles:
- Colorado’s New Firearms Safety Course Is Now in Effect. Here’s What It Means for Colorado Gun Owners
- Do You Need a Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card to Buy a Handgun in Colorado?
- New Colorado Firearms Safety Law Starts August 1: What Gun Owners Need to Know
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Legal Disclaimer
Legal Disclaimer: This information is provided for informational 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.
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