How To Get A Colorado CCW - US Firearms Training Academy

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP)

How To Get A Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit

If you’re looking to carry a concealed handgun in Colorado, this guide will walk you through every step—from legal requirements to training standards. Whether you’re new to firearms or just moving to the state, we’ll help you get your Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) the right way.

🧠 Step 1: Understand Colorado’s Training Requirements

To apply for a CHP in Colorado, most applicants must complete in-person firearms training. However, certain military exemptions apply.

✅ Military Exemptions

You do not need to take the CHP course if you:

Are currently active-duty military (submit proof of active status)
Were honorably discharged within the last 3 years
Have a military-issued handgun training certificate dated within the last 10 years

Submit the appropriate documentation with your application.

📋 Civilian Training Requirements

If you don’t qualify for an exemption, you must take a concealed carry class from a verified instructor.

Starting July 1, 2025, Colorado law mandates:

In-person training only (online courses are not accepted)
Minimum 8 hours of instruction
Live-fire exercise (at least 50 rounds)
Written exam covering concealed handgun competency

Topics Covered in the Course:

Firearm safety and storage
Colorado and federal concealed carry laws
Marksmanship and shooting fundamentals
De-escalation techniques
Red Flags Laws
Recent legal updates (within the last 5 years)

🧾 Step 2: Meet the Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a CHP in Colorado, you must:

Be at least 21 years old
Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
Reside in the Colorado county where you’re applying

You may be disqualified if:

You’ve been convicted of a felony or domestic violence
You’re a habitual drug user (this includes marijuana red card holders)
You have an active restraining order
You were dishonorably discharged from the military
You’ve been adjudicated mentally incompetent or confined to a mental institution
You’re under a current red flag restraining order
You’ve renounced U.S. citizenship or committed perjury on a previous application

🗂️ Step 3: Apply Through Your County Sheriff’s Office

Application processes vary slightly by county:

🖥️ Online Application (e.g., Adams, Denver, Douglas, El Paso, Jefferson, Larimer County):

Complete your application on the sheriff’s website
Schedule your fingerprint and photo appointment

🏢 In-Person Application (e.g., Arapahoe County):

Download or pick up the application packet
Bring it to the sheriff’s office in person
Get fingerprinted and photographed onsite

What You’ll Need:

Valid Colorado ID or driver’s license
Proof of county residency
Training certificate (dated within the last 12 months)
Completed application form
Payment: ~$152.50 (check, money order, or credit card)

🔁 CHP Renewal Process

CHP is valid for 5 years
You may renew up to 180 days before expiration
Renewal Fee: $52.50
30-day grace period after expiration
After 30 days: retraining required

🔄 New Law for Renewals (Effective July 1, 2025):

All renewals must include 2 hours of in-person refresher training

🏡 Moving to a New County in Colorado?

If you already have a CHP and move to a different Colorado county:

Notify the new sheriff’s office within 14 days
Provide updated proof of residency
You must renew through your new county

🚫 No Online-Only Training Allowed

Under Colorado law, concealed carry classes must be:

Conducted entirely in person
Include live-fire qualification and a written exam
Led by a verified instructor

Online-only courses do not meet state standards and will be rejected.

🎯 Take a Certified Concealed Carry Class

We offer state-compliant CHP training that covers everything Colorado law requires:

Live-fire shooting (50+ rounds)
Written concealed handgun competency test
Up-to-date legal instruction
Taught by verified instructors recognized by Colorado sheriffs

Ready to Get Started?

Visit our Eventbrite page to sign up for a class today and take the first step toward responsible concealed carry in Colorado.

📝 Summary

To get your Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP), you must:

Meet all legal eligibility requirements
Complete an in-person concealed carry training class
Apply through your local county sheriff’s office
Renew every 5 years, with refresher training starting July 1, 2025

Click Here To Purchase Tickets To A Colorado CCW Class

This guide has outlined the essential steps and requirements for obtaining a Concealed Handgun Permit in Colorado. It’s crucial to stay informed and compliant with the state laws to ensure a smooth application process and responsible gun ownership. Remember, carrying a concealed weapon is not just a right; it comes with significant responsibility and legal obligations. Stay safe, stay informed, and exercise your rights responsibly.