Your Go-To FAQ for Colorado Concealed Carry Law, CHP Permits, and Responsible Firearm Ownership
Whether you’re a new applicant or a long-time concealed carrier, you probably have questions—especially with Colorado’s laws changing in July 2025. As verified instructors, we’ve put together the most detailed and accurate FAQ available for CCW holders in the state. Let’s break it down:
📝 CHP Application & Renewal
❓ Do I Need to Take a Class to Get My CHP?
Yes. You must complete an 8-hour, in-person training class that includes:
- Live-fire shooting (minimum 50 rounds)
- A written exam (must score 70%+)
- Instruction from a verified Colorado instructor
🔒 After July 1, 2025, online classes are no longer valid.
❓ What’s the Application Process?
| Step | What You Need |
|---|---|
| Training | 8-hour in-person class (valid 1 year) |
| ID | Valid Colorado photo ID |
| Photo | Passport-style photo |
| Application | Completed at your county sheriff’s office |
| Fee | Up to ~$152 depending on county |
| Fingerprints | Taken at your appointment |
| Background Check | CBI + FBI check required |
| Processing | Up to 90 days |
❓ What About Renewals?
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Renewal Period | Up to 120 days before expiration |
| Grace Period | 6 months after expiration (late fee may apply) |
| Expired 6+ Months | Must reapply as a new applicant |
| New Requirements (7/1/25) | 2-hour refresher, live fire, written test |
| ID Required | Colorado driver’s license or ID |
| Late Fee | ~$15 in most counties |
⚖ Use of Force Laws
❓ When Can I Use Deadly Force?
Under CRS 18-1-704 & 704.5:
- Threat must be imminent
- You cannot be the initial aggressor
- Force must be proportional to the threat
- Deadly force is only justified to prevent death or serious bodily harm
Deadly force is justified if stopping:
- Murder or attempted murder
- Sexual assault (active, not past or future)
- Kidnapping
- Robbery (with threat or weapon)
- Aggravated assault
- Burglary involving forced entry
- First-degree arson posing threat to life
📍 Where Can and Can’t I Carry?
| Location | Carry Allowed? |
|---|---|
| Denver City Buildings | ❌ No |
| Boulder Parks | ❌ No |
| CU/CSU Buildings | ❌ No |
| DIA Airport | ❌ No |
| K–12 School Grounds | ✅ In vehicle ONLY |
| Private Property Posted “No Guns” | ❌ No |
| Public Transit | ✅ With CHP |
| National Forests | ✅ Yes |
| Federal Buildings | ❌ No |
| Military Bases | ❌ Not without written authorization |
🧠 Mental Health & CHP
❓ Will Mental Health Disqualify Me?
You may be denied a CHP if:
- You were adjudicated mentally incompetent
- Placed on a mental health hold
- Committed to a mental institution
You can petition the court for restoration with documentation from a licensed provider.
🔫 Firearm & Permit Details
❓ How Many Guns Can I Carry?
There’s no legal limit on how many firearms you carry, as long as they are concealed and safely handled.
❓ Can I Carry with a Round in the Chamber?
Yes. All modern handguns are designed to be carried with a round chambered, using a proper holster.
❓ Can I Use Medical Marijuana and Still Have a CHP?
No. Marijuana use, even medical, disqualifies you under federal law. Lying on your CHP application may result in perjury charges.
❓ What Happens if I Lose My Permit?
You must report it and request a replacement from your county sheriff. A fee usually applies.
❓ Can I Carry at Work?
That depends on:
- Employer policy
- Whether it’s private or public property
- If you keep it in your vehicle, it’s often allowed unless posted otherwise
❓ What if I Move to Another County or State?
- New county: Notify sheriff’s office and renew with them
- Out-of-state move: Your Colorado CHP becomes invalid
🚗 Firearm Transportation
| Type | Legal? |
|---|---|
| Handgun (Loaded, Concealed in Car) | ✅ Yes |
| Long Gun (Loaded) | ❌ No – must be unloaded |
| Ammo in Same Case? | ✅ Legal, but not best practice |
| Gun Left in Car Unattended? | ✅ If it’s secured and not visible |
🚫 Reasons for Denial
| Reason | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Felony Conviction | Lifetime ban |
| Domestic Violence Misdemeanor | Federal disqualifier |
| Active Restraining Order | Disqualified until lifted |
| Lying on Application | Considered perjury |
| Recent Alcohol/Drug Offenses | Discretionary denial |
🧍 Situational Awareness & De-escalation
- Avoid confrontations whenever possible
- Always scan for exits and group behavior
- Use strong body language and clear verbal direction
- Don’t let ego override smart choices
- Drawing your firearm is only for defense, not intimidation
📞 What Should I Say to 911 After a Shooting?
Say:
“There has been a shooting. I was attacked. I defended myself. Please send police and medical. I will cooperate and would like to speak to my attorney.”
Then say nothing else.
🧾 Common Procedural Questions
❓ Do I Have to Carry My Permit With Me?
Yes. You must carry both your CHP and valid ID while carrying.
❓ Can I Carry in a Bar or Restaurant?
Yes, but you may not be intoxicated while carrying. Stay below the legal limit.
❓ Can I Wear a Mask While Carrying?
Yes. Colorado law does not prohibit carrying with a face covering.
❓ Is There Magazine Capacity Limit?
Yes – 15 rounds. Possession of higher-capacity magazines is illegal unless lawfully owned before July 1, 2013. Proving that can be difficult, so we recommend using compliant mags only.
✅ Take the Next Step in Your CCW Journey
- 🔫 Book a Concealed Carry Class – In-person, verified training
- 🛡 Explore Self-Defense Insurance Options
- 📚 Learn Colorado’s Use-of-Force Laws
- 📞 Contact Us With Any Questions
