How To Get A Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit
Getting your Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) doesn’t have to be confusing. This guide breaks down the legal steps, training requirements, and key updates so you can carry responsibly and confidently in Colorado.
🧠 Step 1: Understand the Training Requirements
To legally obtain a CHP in Colorado, most applicants must complete in-person firearms training. However, some exceptions apply.
✅ Military Exemptions
You may skip the training requirement if you:
- Are currently active-duty military (submit proof of active status)
- Were honorably discharged in the past 3 years
- Have a military-issued handgun training certificate dated within the last 10 years
Submit qualifying documentation when applying.
📋 Civilian Training Requirement
If you’re not exempt, you must take a CHP course from a verified firearms instructor.
As of July 1, 2025, Colorado law requires:
- In-person instruction only — no online classes allowed
- A minimum of 8 hours of training
- Live-fire shooting exercise (minimum 50 rounds)
- Written concealed handgun competency exam
- Topics must include:
- Firearm safety
- De-escalation techniques
- Colorado and federal carry laws
- Marksmanship and fundamentals
- Recent legal changes (within the past 5 years)
🧾 Step 2: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a CHP in Colorado, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Reside in the county where you apply
You may be ineligible if you:
- Have a felony or domestic violence conviction
- Are a habitual drug user (including marijuana red card holders)
- Have an active restraining order
- Were dishonorably discharged from the military
- Were admitted to a mental institution
- Are under a current red flag restraining order
- Have renounced U.S. citizenship or committed perjury
🗂️ Step 3: Apply Through Your County Sheriff’s Office
Each Colorado county processes CHP applications slightly differently:
🖥️ Online Application (e.g., Denver, Jefferson County)
- Complete the application online
- Schedule fingerprinting and photo appointment
🏢 In-Person Application (e.g., Arapahoe County)
- Pick up or download the application
- Submit it in person to the sheriff’s office
- Get fingerprinted and photographed during the visit
What You’ll Need:
- Valid Colorado state ID
- Proof of county residency
- Training certificate (dated within the last 12 months)
- Completed application packet
- Payment (~$152.50 via check, money order, or card)
🔁 CHP Renewal Process
- CHP is valid for 5 years
- You can renew up to 180 days before expiration
- Renewal fee: $52.50
- 30-day grace period after expiration
- After 30 days: retraining is required
- New Law: Renewal requires 2 hours of refresher training (in-person)
🔄 Moving to a New County in Colorado?
If you move within Colorado and already have a CHP:
- Notify your new county sheriff within 14 days
- Provide updated proof of residency
- You’ll need to renew through your new county
🚫 No Online Training Allowed
Colorado does NOT accept online-only concealed carry classes. All training must be:
- Conducted in person
- Held with the instructor present
- Include live-fire shooting and a written test
Online courses often lack legal depth and hands-on safety instruction, making them insufficient under Colorado law.
🎯 Where to Take a Concealed Carry Class
We offer certified, in-person concealed carry classes that meet or exceed all state requirements, including:
- Live-fire qualification (50 rounds minimum)
- Legal instruction with the latest law updates
- Written concealed handgun competency exam
- Taught by verified instructors recognized by Colorado sheriffs
👉 Visit Our Eventbrite Page to Sign Up »
Summary
Getting your Colorado CHP involves:
- Meeting eligibility criteria
- Completing certified, in-person training
- Submitting your application through your county sheriff’s office
At CCCD, we ensure your training meets all legal requirements while giving you the confidence and knowledge to carry safely and responsibly.