Denver, CO – August 9, 2025 — Colorado is now exactly one year away from the most sweeping change to state firearms law in decades. Starting August 1, 2026, law-abiding residents will be required to complete a certified firearms safety course and obtain a Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card or a “permit to purchase license” before purchasing or transferring certain semiautomatic firearms.
Created under Senate Bill 25-003 (SB 3), the requirement is modeled after Illinois’ FOID card system but takes its own approach. Supporters in the legislature claim it will promote responsible gun ownership. Critics, including many in Colorado’s firearms community, see it as yet another bureaucratic hurdle that burdens law-abiding citizens while doing little to deter criminals—who already ignore existing laws.
What Firearms Are Affected?
The law applies to:
- Semiautomatic rifles
- Semiautomatic shotguns
- Gas-operated semiautomatic handguns with detachable magazines
Private transfers and dealer sales are both covered. Anyone attempting to buy one of these firearms after August 1, 2026, without the card will be denied at the point of sale.
Special Rule for Hunter Education Graduates
If you already have a valid Colorado Hunter Education card, you will only be required to take the 4-hour basic course instead of the extended 12-hour version. The basic course still requires passing a written exam with a 90% or higher score.
Important Warning About Concealed Carry Classes
A Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) class will NOT count toward this new requirement. Even if you’ve taken a CHP class recently, it will not qualify you for the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card. You must take the specific state-approved Firearms Safety Course once it becomes available in 2026.
Course & Card Requirements
- Basic Course: 4 hours covering safe handling, storage, magazine safety, child access prevention, mental health awareness, extreme risk protection orders, and empathy toward victims.
- Extended Course: 12 hours over two or more days with additional legal and psychological training.
- Eligibility Card: Issued after successful completion; valid for five years.
Instructors must be verified by their county sheriff, and licensed dealers will verify card status before finalizing a sale.
Why This Matters to Colorado Gun Owners
Colorado has never required a permit to purchase before. This is a major shift in policy—one that could cause significant delays if you wait until the last minute. Sheriffs, especially in Boulder County, have already voiced concerns over handling an estimated 50,000+ applications in the first year. That could mean processing delays and a backlog right before hunting season or other peak firearm purchase periods.
How This Compares Nationally
Colorado joins states like Illinois and California in adopting a “permit-to-purchase” system. Pro-gun advocates note that these systems have done little to reduce crime in other states but have made it more expensive and time-consuming for law-abiding citizens to exercise their Second Amendment rights.
Timeline to Be Ready
Now – Learn the requirements and check if your Hunter Ed card qualifies you for the 4-hour course.
June 2026 – Concealed Carry Classes of Denver (CCCD) plans to begin offering state-approved courses to help you meet the requirement in time.
August 1, 2026 – Law goes into effect; no card means no purchase or transfer.
FAQ
Does this affect all firearms?
No. It applies only to specified semiautomatic rifles, shotguns, and certain handguns with detachable magazines.
Will my concealed carry class count?
No. A Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit class does not meet the requirements of SB 3 and will not qualify you for the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card. You must take the specific state-approved course.
What if I already own firearms?
You can keep them. The law applies to new purchases or transfers after August 1, 2026.
Pro-Gun Perspective
This new requirement doesn’t target criminals—it targets responsible gun owners with more red tape, extra fees, and mandatory classes. That’s why planning ahead is key: the sooner you complete the process once it opens, the sooner you can get back to enjoying your constitutional rights without interruption.
Take Action Now
- Firearm Safety Courses in Colorado – Get Certified Today – Bookmark for updates when registration opens in June 2026.
- Sign Up for a Colorado Concealed Carry Class – Carry responsibly while defending your rights.
- Shop Firearms Gear & Accessories – Stock up before the law takes effect.
- Explore Shooting Drills – Build skill and confidence now.
- Learn Colorado Gun Laws – Stay informed and protect your rights.
