Tag: Denver

Concealed Carry, Legal & Law

Can You Legally Conceal Carry in the City and County of Denver?

Mark Schneider

There is a common misconception that concealed carry permits are not valid in the City and County of Denver. Some individuals have even reported being informed by police officers that their permits are invalid within city limits. This is not accurate. Understanding the local laws and regulations is crucial for responsible firearm ownership and carry.

State Preemption and Concealed Carry

In Colorado, state laws govern the issuance and validity of concealed carry permits. Even after Governor Jared Polis removed statewide preemption for certain gun laws, concealed carry permits remained protected at the state level. This means that counties, cities, and municipalities cannot alter how concealed carry permits function within their jurisdictions. Therefore, a valid Colorado concealed carry permit is recognized throughout the state, including in Denver.

Denver Municipal Code: What the Law Says

Two key sections of the Denver Municipal Code address the carrying of weapons:

  • Sec. 38-118(a): Unlawful Concealed Carry of Weapons

“Except as provided in subsections (c) and (d) of this section, it shall be unlawful for any person to wear, carry, or transport any weapon concealed on or about their person.”

  • Sec. 38-118(d): Exception for Concealed Carry Permit Holders

“It shall not be an offense under subsection (a) of this section if at the time of carrying a handgun, the person holds a valid permit to carry a concealed handgun and the person is carrying the handgun in conformance with any applicable federal, state, or local law…”

These sections clarify that while concealed carry is generally prohibited, an exception is made for individuals who hold a valid concealed carry permit and are complying with all other relevant laws.

Open Carry is Prohibited in Denver

It’s important to note that open carry of firearms is illegal in Denver. According to Sec. 38-118(b):

“Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, it shall be unlawful for any person to openly wear, carry, or transport any weapon on or about their person or vehicle.”

Exceptions are limited and specific, such as for law enforcement officers or individuals on their own property. For the general public, open carry is not permitted within city limits.

Key Takeaways

  • Valid Permits are Recognized: If you hold a valid Colorado concealed carry permit or a state with reciprocity, you are legally allowed to carry a concealed handgun in the City and County of Denver.
  • Compliance is Crucial: Permit holders must adhere to all applicable federal, state, and local laws while carrying.
  • No Open Carry: Open carry of firearms is prohibited in Denver, regardless of permit status.

Conclusion

The confusion surrounding concealed carry laws in Denver often leads to misunderstandings. However, the law clearly states that concealed carry permit holders are exempt from the general prohibition against concealed weapons in the city. Always ensure that you are informed about the latest laws and regulations, and consult legal professionals if you have specific questions or concerns.

Stay informed, stay compliant, and carry responsibly.

Legal Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While efforts are made to ensure the accuracy of the information, laws and regulations may change, and the application of laws can vary based on individual circumstances. For specific legal advice related to firearm laws, consult with a qualified attorney.

Concealed Carry, Legal & Law, News

Colorado’s New CCW Instructor Verification Law Takes Effect: What You Need to Know

Mark Schneider

On August 7, 2024, a significant new law came into effect in Colorado that impacts both concealed carry weapons (CCW) instructors and those seeking to obtain a CCW permit. The new law, 18-12-202.7, mandates that all CCW instructors must be verified by the sheriff in the county where they conduct their firearms training. This move is designed to ensure that all instructors meet a standardized level of qualification and uphold high standards in firearms education.

What Does the New Law Entail?

Under this new regulation, each sheriff in Colorado is responsible for verifying firearms instructors within their jurisdiction. To become a verified instructor, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Hold a Valid CCW Permit: Instructors must possess a valid concealed handgun permit issued under Colorado law. Temporary emergency permits do not qualify.
  2. Certification as a Firearms Instructor: Instructors must be certified by a recognized entity, such as a law enforcement agency, college or university, nationally recognized firearms training organization, or a firearms training school.

Once verified, instructors will receive evidence of verification from the sheriff, which will be valid for ten years. Sheriffs are also required to maintain a public list of verified instructors, which will be accessible on their websites.

Implications for CCW Instructors

The verification process ensures that instructors are fully qualified and maintain high standards in their teaching. It also provides students with confidence that their training meets the necessary legal requirements.

What This Means for CCW Applicants

For those looking to obtain a CCW permit in Colorado, the process is about to become more rigorous. While currently, the requirement is simply to complete a class, starting July 1, 2025, the new requirements will include:

  • Mandatory 8-Hour Class: The class will cover a comprehensive curriculum, including legal responsibilities, safety, and practical firearm handling.
  • Test and Shooting Qualification: Applicants must pass a test at the end of the class and achieve a shooting qualification score of 70% or higher.
  • Range Time: Mandatory range time will be required, where applicants must shoot with the handgun they intend to carry.

These upcoming changes mean that it will become more challenging to obtain a CCW permit in Colorado. Therefore, it is highly recommended that anyone considering obtaining their permit do so now while the process is still relatively straightforward.

If you’re ready to get your CCW permit before these new requirements take effect, don’t wait—Contact us today for more information and to sign up for a class.

Getting your CCW permit now will allow you to avoid the upcoming mandatory 8-hour class, range time, and qualification test that will be required next year. Don’t miss this opportunity to complete the process under the current, simpler guidelines.

For more information on the new law and how it may impact both instructors and CCW applicants, feel free to reach out to us. Our team is here to help guide you through the process and ensure you’re fully prepared for the changes ahead.

Concealed Carry

Colorado New Concealed Carry Law Effective July 1, 2025

Mark Schneider

As of July 1, 2025, Colorado’s concealed carry permit process is no longer what it used to be.

In June 2024, Governor Jared Polis signed a law that overhauled the requirements for obtaining and renewing a Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP). These changes are now fully in effect and apply to all new applicants and renewals.

If you’re planning to carry concealed in Colorado, here’s what you need to know—and how to get certified legally and correctly under the new law.

🚨 Key Changes Now in Effect

✅ In-Person Training Is Mandatory

Online or remote concealed carry classes no longer meet the legal requirement. All CHP classes must be taken in person.

✅ You Must Train With a Verified Instructor

Under the new law, training must be completed through a verified instructor.

A verified instructor is someone who:

  • Holds a valid Colorado CHP
  • Is certified by law enforcement, a college or university, or a nationally recognized firearms training organization
  • Is officially approved by the County Sheriff

🛑 It is a criminal offense to falsely claim to be a verified instructor.

👉 We are verified instructors, fully approved under Colorado’s new law.

📚 Updated Curriculum Requirements

Your CHP training course must now include:

  • Firearm and ammunition safety
  • Safe storage practices and child safety
  • Basic shooting skills and fundamentals
  • Colorado and federal gun laws
  • The lawful use of deadly force in self-defense
  • Best practices for interacting with law enforcement
  • Avoiding criminal encounters and judgmental use of force

📝 Written and Live-Fire Exams Required

The initial concealed carry class now requires:

  • A written test with a passing score of 70% or higher
  • A live-fire shooting qualification, also requiring 70% or higher

The full class must provide at least 8 hours of in-person instruction, including legal review and range time.

🔄 Renewal Requirements Have Changed Too

If you’re renewing your permit, you must take either:

  • The full 8-hour class again
    OR
  • A refresher course with:
    • At least 2 hours of in-person instruction
    • Updates on gun laws
    • A written test and live-fire shooting qualification (70% required on each)

❌ New Restrictions for Misdemeanors

If you’ve been convicted of certain misdemeanor offenses within the last 5 years, you are no longer eligible for a CHP.

✅ Peace Officer Exemption

Current peace officers with valid POST certification can still demonstrate handgun competency through their professional credentials.

🛡️ Get Trained the Right Way—With Verified Instructors

We are a Colorado-verified training provider, certified to meet the requirements under the new law.

Our CHP classes include:

  • Live-fire range training
  • Written and practical testing
  • Complete legal education
  • Certified, experienced instructors
  • Training documentation accepted by all Colorado counties

🎯 Ready to Get Certified?

Don’t risk your permit by taking a class from a non-verified instructor or skipping required exams. We’ll walk you through the new process step-by-step and help you qualify legally and confidently.

👉 View Upcoming Concealed Carry Classes

🧠 More Resources:

Firearms & CCW Training in Denver

Colorado CHP Law Changes (Full Breakdown)

Compare Self-Defense Insurance Plans