How To Get Your Colorado Concealed Carry Permit
Whether you're new to owning a firearm or have had a gun for home defense for years, getting a concealed handgun permit may seem daunting. It doesn't have to be. There are many reasons and ways to carry a concealed weapon, but the first step is knowing Colorado's concealed carry laws. Applying for a CCW varies by state.
Read about the process for getting a Colorado Concealed Carry Weapon below.
Steps To Get A Colorado Concealed Carry Permit
COMPLETE a firearm training course
DOWNLOAD or pick up an application from your local sheriff's office
BRING your completed, unsigned application to your local sheriff's office. You will need the following documents:
- Training certificate;
- Drivers license or state ID
- Passport-style photo taken within the last thirty days; and
- Proof of residency
You will be fingerprinted.
CHECK YOUR MAILBOX - You will be notified if your application has been approved.
Find a CCW Training Class
What Are the Firearms Training Requirements in Colorado?
Applicants must complete and obtain a certificate from one of:
- A training certificate from a handgun training class obtained within the 10 years preceding submittal of the application
- Evidence of experience with a firearm through participation in organized shooting competitions or current military service
- Evidence that, at the time the application is submitted, the applicant is a certified instructor
- Proof of honorable discharge from a branch of the U.S. armed forces within three years or that reflects pistol qualifications obtained within the 10 years preceding submittal of the application
- A certificate showing retirement from a Colorado law enforcement agency that reflects pistol qualifications obtained within the 10 years preceding submittal of the application
The training cannot be through an online course but must be attended in person at a physical location with a certified instructor.
What Are the Colorado License to Carry a Handgun Requirements?
An applicant must:
- Be at least 21 years of age;
- Be a legal resident of Colorado;
- Not have been convicted of perjury;
- Not chronically and habitually use alcoholic beverages;
- Not be an unlawful user of or addicted to a controlled substance;
- Not be subject to a protection order;
- Demonstrate competence with a handgun; and
- Meet federal law requirements.
*Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of Colorado.
What are the Fees and Terms?
$50 to $63 Permit Renewal Fee
$52 initial permit. Sheriff can charge an additional fee up to $100
Valid for Five Years from Date of Issue
90 Day Processing Time
Where Can I Find Application Forms?
What Concealed Carry Permit Options Exist Based on Residency?
Residency Changes:
Moving to Colorado and interested in applying for a resident permit? How soon can you apply?Colorado issues permits to residents and members of the military permanently stationed in Colorado and their immediate family members. You can apply for your permit with your local sheriff once you have established your residence.
Moving from Colorado and have a Colorado resident permit? Does that permit transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Colorado permit remains valid?If a person with a Colorado permit to carry a concealed weapon establishes residency in another state, the permit expires upon the establishment of residence in the other state.
How Do I Renew My Concealed Carry Permit in Colorado?
Renewals are the responsibility of the permittee.
- Within 120 days prior to expiration of a permit, the permittee may obtain a renewal form from the county sheriff’s office where you reside, own property or own a business.
- A permittee can file a renewal form on or before the permit expiration date and up to 6 months after the expiration date.
- No permit will be renewed 6 months or more after its expiration date and the permit shall be deemed permanently expired. A person whose permit has permanently expired may reapply by submitting a new application and the required fees.
- starting July 1, 2025, Colorado law does require a minimum 2-hour in-person refresher course with live-fire.
DOWNLOAD the renewal application form
SUBMIT a completed renewal form, photo ID, proof of residency (i.e., lease agreement, mortgage statement, copy of tax statement), a notarized affidavit stating that the permittee remains qualified pursuant to the criteria specified and renewal fee.
You will be notified if your application has been approved.
Do Your Homework!
Make sure you understand Colorado Gun Laws and Colorado concealed carry reciprocity with other states.
Read Colorado Gun Laws