CCW – Practical Training Solutions, LLC

CALIFORNIA CONCEALED WEAPONS CERTIFICATION

HOW TO OBTAIN YOUR CCW PERMIT IN CALIFORNIA

CCW Permit Information and Guidance

Below you’ll find detailed information and step-by-step instructions on how to obtain your initial California Concealed Weapons Permit, renew an existing permit, or request a modification.

If you have any questions at any point during the process, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Simply click the “Contact” tab at the top of our website for our full contact information—we’re here to help.

STEP #1: CCW TRAINING COURSE

Begin Your Path to a California CCW Permit

The first step in obtaining your California Concealed Weapons Permit is enrolling in a certified CCW training course.

NEW APPLICANTS are required to complete a 16-hour training program.
RENEWING APPLICANTS must complete an 8-hour renewal course.

All courses include a mandatory live-fire qualification to ensure proficiency and safety with your firearm.

**SEEK OUT CREDIBLE INSTRUCTORS**

ENROLL NOW

STEP #2: CCW PERMIT APPLICATION

How to Apply for Your CCW Permit

Once you have successfully completed your CCW training course, the next step is to apply for your California Concealed Weapons Permit through the Sheriff’s Office in your county of residence.

Before beginning the online application, ensure all required documents are saved and ready to upload. These typically include:

TWO (2) Items of Proof of Residency
A valid California Driver’s License
A copy (front and back) of your Training Course Certificate
Any additional documents required by your county

When you're ready, use the appropriate link below to access your county’s CCW application portal and begin the process.

STEP #3: LIVESCAN FINGERPRINTING

Next Step: Live Scan Fingerprinting

Once you have successfully submitted your CCW permit application to your county Sheriff’s Office, the next step is to complete the Live Scan fingerprinting process.

We recommend contacting your issuing agency as soon as possible to schedule your Live Scan appointment. The process is quick, straightforward, and typically takes just a few minutes to complete.

When you're read, use the appropriate link below to access your county's Sheriff's Office website to locate the nearest headquarters or substation that can facilitate your Live Scan.

STEP #4: BACKGROUND CHECK

Application Review and Background Investigation

After you have completed your training course, submitted your application, and completed the Live Scan fingerprinting process, your issuing agency will begin reviewing your application and conducting a background investigation.

Processing times may vary by county, but most applicants can expect a wait time of approximately one to three months, depending on the agency’s workload and procedures.

STEP #5: YOUR APPROVED PERMIT

Permit Issuance

Upon completion of the background investigation, your issuing agency will notify you when your CCW permit is ready for pickup.

STEP #6: PERMIT RENEWAL

Permit Renewal and Ongoing Training

Your CCW permit must be renewed every two years. We strongly encourage all permit holders to engage in regular, ongoing training to continuously develop and maintain their firearm skills and readiness.

Depending on the county, some allow you to renew early, some allow to be expired longer than ninety days. If you do not know your county's rules and regulations for renewal or expiration, please reach out and we will give you the appropriate, correct information.

STEP #7: PERMIT MODIFICATION

Firearm Modifications and CCW Compliance

At Practical Training Solutions, we understand that after obtaining your Concealed Weapons Permit, you may decide to purchase a new firearm. Please be aware that you are not legally permitted to carry a new firearm under your CCW until it has been added to your permit through a modification process.

If you’ve recently purchased a new firearm, contact us to schedule a CCW modification session. We’re here to ensure you remain compliant and confident with every step.