Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) Guide

This guide provides a quick breakdown of Colorado’s concealed carry laws, training requirements, reciprocity, restricted areas, and more. Designed for residents and CCW holders alike. For a comprehensive page for information regarding to Colorado self defense laws and firearms, please visit this page.

📝 New CHP Application Summary Chart

♻️ CHP Renewal Summary Chart

🧠 Mental Health & Your Permit

You may be disqualified if:

• You’ve been adjudicated mentally incompetent
• You’ve been placed on a mental health hold for danger to self or others
• You’ve been committed to a mental institution

Restoring Rights:

• Must petition the court and/or submit documentation from a licensed provider
• Check with your Sheriff’s Office for accepted proof of recovery

🚫 Common Reasons for Denial

⚖ How to Appeal a Denial or Suspension

1. Request Written Reason – The sheriff must provide a reason for denial/suspension.
2. Submit Written Appeal – You can appeal the decision to district court within 30 days.
3. Provide Documentation – Include any legal documents, corrected application, or letters of support.
4. Attend Hearing (if scheduled) – The judge will decide if denial/suspension was appropriate.

🏢 County-Specific Permitting Differences

Always check your county’s CHP page before showing up.

📚 Training Requirements: Pre vs. Post July 2025

⚖ Legal Use of Force 

Relevant Statutes: 18-1-704, 18-1-704.5, 18-1-705, 18-1-706

Use of Force Overview Colorado law allows the use of physical or deadly force in certain situations, but it must meet specific legal thresholds:

• You may use force to defend yourself or a third person from the unlawful use of force.
• The threat must be imminent—not speculative or avoidable.
• The person must be imminently or actively committing an unlawful use of force.
• The force used in defense must be reasonable and proportional to the threat.
• Deadly force is only justified if there is no other option available to prevent death or serious bodily harm.
• You cannot provoke another person with the intent to cause bodily harm and then claim self-defense.
• Self-defense is not justified if you are the initial aggressor, unless you clearly withdraw and communicate that withdrawal.
• Colorado is a no duty to retreat state. You are not legally required to retreat if you are in a place you have a legal right to be and did not verbally or physically provoke the incident. Retreat is ALWAYS a smart idea if possible.
• Force must be used during the ACTIVE threat, not after. Retaliation after the fact is not justified.
• The belief that force was necessary must be based on a reasonable person standard—not just your own fear.
• You generally cannot use force against a law enforcement officer performing their official duties unless they are using unlawful excessive force and you are not engaged in a crime. The use of physical or deadly force in certain situations, but it must meet specific legal thresholds:

🔸 Defense of Property or Premises:

• You may use reasonable and appropriate physical force to protect your property or premises.
• Deadly force is not allowed for the sole purpose of protecting property or premises.
• The force used must be reasonable and proportional to the threat.

You may use deadly force to defend yourself or others from certain aggravated crimes, listed in the chart below:

• Deadly force may only be used to stop crimes like murder, kidnapping, robbery, assault, and sexual assault when the crime is aggravated (first or second degree), meaning it involves force, weapons, or a serious threat to human life.
• You may not use deadly force to stop a property crime unless the suspect is also committing one of the above aggravated crimes.
• Always consider whether the suspect’s actions show an imminent, active and unavoidable danger and if your response is reasonable and proportional.

📦 Transporting Firearms – Best Practices

• Handguns: May be loaded and concealed in a private vehicle for personal protection.
• Long Guns: Must be unloaded in the chamber.
• Best Practice: Always transport firearms in a dedicated gun case to reduce risk and maintain a professional standard.
• Ammo Storage: Keep ammunition separate from the firearm when possible, ideally in a locked container.

🔒 Firearm Storage – Safe Practices

• Safe Storage Law (CRS 18-12-114): Firearms must be securely stored if you know a juvenile or prohibited person may gain access.

Best Practices:

• Store firearms in a safe, cabinet, or with a locking device when not in use.
• Ammunition should be stored separately when possible.
• Vehicles:
  • Firearms should be secured in a lockbox or vehicle safe when left unattended.
  • Never leave firearms visible inside a vehicle.
  • Do not store firearms in a vehicle overnight if avoidable.
  • Ammunition should be stored separately or locked in the same secured container.
• Educate household members on firearm safety and responsibility.

Failure to comply may result in criminal charges and liability if an unauthorized person gains access.

🛂 Universal Background Checks

• All firearm sales and transfers in Colorado require a background check, even between private parties.
• Transfers must go through a licensed firearms dealer (FFL) who will run a CBI background check.
• Exceptions include:
  • Immediate family transfers (spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, grandchild).
  • Temporary transfers at a shooting range, during hunting, or in emergencies.
• Violation can result in criminal charges and loss of firearm rights.

🚨Red Flag Laws (Extreme Risk Protection Orders – ERPO)

• Colorado law allows family, household members, or law enforcement to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from someone deemed a danger to themselves or others.
• If issued, you must surrender firearms to law enforcement or a licensed FFL.
• ERPOs can last up to 1 year but may be extended if the court finds continued risk.
• You have the right to attend a hearing and present evidence to challenge the order.
• Violation of an ERPO is a criminal offense.

📏 15-Round Magazine Limit

• Colorado law prohibits the sale, transfer, or possession of magazines that hold more than 15 rounds (CRS 18-12-301).
• Exceptions:
  • Magazines owned before July 1, 2013 are grandfathered if you’ve maintained continuous possession.
  • Law enforcement and military exemptions apply.
• Possessing non-compliant magazines may result in criminal charges.
• Many counties strictly enforce this law — always assume compliance is required.
• Best Practice: Use factory 15-round mags or permanently modified magazines (not just blocked with inserts or baseplates).

🧍 Situational Awareness & Conflict De-escalation

• Avoidance is always the best defense.
• De-escalation should always be first priority.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Scan for exits, suspicious behavior, and groups forming.
• Use verbal communication/commands and body language to de-escalate.
• Never let anger or ego dictate your response.
• Drawing your firearm is a last resort—not a tool for intimidation.

🔍 Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry

Carrying in National Parks
You can carry in national parks if you follow the laws of the state the park is in. However, federal buildings inside the park are off-limits. [Learn more about carrying in national parks →]

Carrying in State Parks
Concealed and open carry are generally allowed in Colorado state parks, but local restrictions may apply. [Learn more about carrying in state parks →]

🗺 List of Known Restricted Areas (Cities and Institutions)

Check local ordinances and posted signage before carrying. Check local ordinances and posted signage before carrying.

⚠️ Legal Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws may change or vary by jurisdiction. Always consult official state statutes and your local sheriff’s office to ensure compliance with current laws and regulations.