New Colorado Concealed Carry Law Taking Effect: What You Need to Know
As of July 1, 2025, Colorado’s new concealed handgun permit law will officially go into effect, significantly impacting both new applicants and those seeking to renew their permits. With sheriff’s offices such as El Paso County and Adams County already booked solid, applicants are finding that the earliest available appointments for processing are not until July 1, 2025. This means that anyone needing a permit, whether for the first time or for renewal, must meet the new training requirements under a verified instructor.
Key Changes in the Law
The new law mandates that applicants must complete an 8-hour training course from a verified instructor in Colorado to qualify for a concealed handgun permit. This training must cover essential firearm safety, legal considerations, and a live-fire qualification test to ensure competency. Additionally, renewal applicants must complete a new 4-hour course that meets the updated state requirements.
Why This Matters for Applicants
With sheriff’s offices at capacity, failing to complete the required training now could lead to significant delays in obtaining or renewing your concealed carry permit. Previously, many applicants relied on less formal online courses or minimal in-person instruction, but the new law eliminates those options. Now, both new and renewing applicants must attend a state-approved course that includes classroom instruction, testing, and a range qualification.
Verifying Approved Instructors
It’s crucial for both new and renewal applicants to research and verify that their instructor is approved. You can easily confirm this by visiting the sheriff’s office website of the county where the instructor’s primary place of business is located. For example, to verify an instructor in Denver, you can visit the Denver Police Departments website to ensure they are on the approved list. It’s always a good idea to verify before signing up for a course, as taking a class with an unverified instructor could result in a certificate that’s not valid with a loss of money and time.
Age Restrictions and Certificate Validity
Applicants must be at least 21 years old to apply for a concealed carry permit in Colorado. It’s also important to note that the certificate you receive upon completing the required training is only valid for one year. After that, you will need to complete the renewal process to maintain your eligibility to carry concealed. Renewal applicants have a 180-day window prior to their permit’s expiration to renew. If they fail to renew within that time frame, they have a 90-day grace period after expiration to renew. After 90 days, they must start the process as a brand new applicant, including taking the full 8-hour course again.
What to Expect in the Training
For those who need a permit, expect a structured program that includes:
- Classroom Instruction: Covering firearm safety, Colorado gun laws, and self-defense legalities.
- Written Exam: Requiring a passing score of at least 80%.
- Live Fire Qualification: Shooting a minimum of 50 rounds and demonstrating shooting proficiency with a minimum accuracy requirement of 70%.
Cost of Training
The cost of concealed carry courses varies depending on the provider, location, and course length. Generally, classes can range anywhere from $80 to $250. We offer competitive pricing with our renewal course at $99.99 and our new applicant course at $139.99, excluding range fees and ammunition costs. It’s important to research and choose a verified instructor that fits your needs and budget.
Avoid Delays – Get Certified Now
Because of the overwhelming demand and the upcoming changes, waiting until mid-2025 to seek training may leave you without a valid permit for months. The best course of action is to enroll in a verified training program as soon as possible to avoid last-minute rushes and scheduling conflicts.
For those in the Colorado Springs, Denver, and Aurora areas, our Colorado Concealed Handgun Course meets all state-mandated requirements and provides the certification needed to comply with the new law.
Final Thoughts
With major counties already booked until July 2025, Colorado gun owners must take proactive steps to ensure they remain compliant with the new law. If you or someone you know needs a permit or renewal, now is the time to act. Get certified, complete your training, and avoid unnecessary delays.
For more details on available courses and registration, visit our CHP page.
