Frequently Asked Questions
What do you mean by "Women's Only Classes?"
What class is required for the Colorado Concealed Carry Permit application?
How long will it take for me to get my permit?
Can I carry concealed before I get my permit?
Do I have to carry the permit with me when I carry a concealed firearm?
Do I have to qualify with the firearm I am going to carry?
What other states can I carry concealed using my Colorado Concealed Carry Permit?
Can I carry in downtown Denver?
What about the bill in the state congress about being able to carry concealed without a permit?
I had a permit from another state, can I use it to get my permit here in Colorado?
I'm worried about shooting and qualifying with my handgun, what is your advice?
I noticed most of your classes are with Gander Mountain, can you tell me more?
I have a young child and would like them to learn more about firearm safety, what class would you recommend?
Why do I need a permit? -- As some people say: "Tis better to have and not need, than to need and not have." Just because you HAVE a permit, that doesn't mean you HAVE to carry all the time. Many times we find ourselves in an uncomfortable situation, and having a firearm can give one a sense of confidence to handle and possibly avoid a compromising situation.
What do you mean by "Women's Only Classes?" -- The NRA has found interest in setting up classes only for women. While these classes are the same as normally taught, many women find it more comfortable to be in a classroom with other women as classmates. We recognize that fact, and offer several of our courses as Women's Only Classes, including our CO Concealed Carry Permit Class, the Advanced Conceal Carry Class, and other courses based on request. If you are interested in a Women's Only Class that is not listed in our schedule, please contact us and we will schedule new classes based on our student's interest!
What class is required for the Colorado Concealed Carry Permit application? -- The CO Concealed Carry Permit (CCP) class is the class that will get you the required certificate for a Firearm Safety class. Many of our students elect to add to their Concealed Carry skills by attending our Advanced Concealed Carry Carry class, which covers many skills that will make the student safer and more effective when carrying concealed. The application requires your CCP Training Certificate, a set of fingerprints, and two separate checks, one to the sheriff's department, and one to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for your background check.
How long will it take for me to get my permit? -- Currently the wait time is 6-8 weeks, although CBI is working on a system that will reduce the time required to run the state and federal background checks. We maintain an open communication with CBI and are updated constantly on changes that help the Colorado community. We pass this information along to our students to ensure they have a smooth application process and minimal delays.
Can I carry concealed before I get my permit? -- Unfortunately, you may not carry concealed prior to being issued your permit except in certain cases, such as in your vehicle. Colorado state law now allows citizens, without a permit, to carry concealed while inside their vehicle provided they can own a firearm. Some people, such as certain business owners, may carry concealed as a normal part of their business. These cases are specifically spelled out in Colorado Statutes, and legal advice is advisable before attempting this.
Do I have to carry the permit with me when I carry a concealed firearm? -- Colorado Revised Statutes require you to carry both your conceal carry permit, as well as a state issued identification (driver's license) while you are carrying concealed.
Do I have to qualify with the firearm I am going to carry? -- No, the laws in Colorado do not require you to qualify with a specific firearm. Our requirements are that you demonstrate firearm proficiency and safety with your choice of firearm. We recommend you qualify and practice with the firearm you are planning on carrying concealed.
What other states can I carry concealed using my Colorado Concealed Carry Permit? -- Check out our Reciprocity Page, which contains a map courtesy of Packing.org with current reciprocity agreements Colorado has with other states. Please make sure you verify this information before taking advantage of this benefit. We recommend you contact the Sheriff in the county you are visiting, and as a professional courtesy, let them know you will be carrying in the area and ensure they approve.
Can I carry in downtown Denver? -- The state law that changed on May 19th, 2003 in section 18-12-201 states: "An action or rule that encumbers the permit process by placing burdens on the applicant beyond those sworn statements and specified documents detailed in this part 2 or that creates restrictions beyond those specified in this part 2 is in conflict with the intent of this part 2 and is prohibited." Further, in section 18-12-214 it is stated that: "A local government does not have authority to adopt or enforce an ordinance or resolution that would conflict with any provision of this part 2." Our contact with the Denver PD reveals that DPD recognizes this fact and has informed their officers to comply with the new state ruling.
What about the bill in the state congress about being able to carry concealed without a permit? -- As of 10 Feb, 2004 the bill was killed in committee. More information may be found at http://www.rmgo.org/ Colorado Firearm Safety, Inc. supports our right to keep and bear arms, and feels that other states such as Vermont are helping pave the way to allow law-abiding citizens the rights promised by the constitution. We strongly support efforts in Colorado at passing a No Permit Required To Carry law.
I had a permit from another state, can I use it to get my permit here in Colorado? -- Unfortunately Colorado requires you to go through their program regardless of permits from other states you may have held.
I'm worried about shooting and qualifying with my handgun, what is your advice? -- Our goal at Colorado Firearm Safety, Inc. is to promote responsible and safe firearm use. All of our instructors are certified firearm safety instructors and strive to make both the classroom as well as the range portion fun, safe, and educational. We recommend practicing prior to class with a handgun you are comfortable with. If you do not have a handgun, we are happy to let you use one of our loaners at no charge. We will spend the time with you to familiarize yourself with our loaner, and will watch closely to ensure you are comfortable.
I noticed most of your classes are with Gander Mountain, can you tell me more? -- Colorado Firearm Safety, Inc. is proud of our partnership we have developed with Gander Mountain, both the Aurora and the Thornton store. While we are two separate business entities, we recognize our conduct reflect on Gander Mountain and work hard to earn the trust our partnership has foundered.
I have a young child and would like them to learn more about firearm safety, what class would you recommend? -- In response to a growing number of requests from parents, we are working on a comprehensive Juvenile Firearm Safety (JFS) course. In coordination with state and local judges, law enforcement, the NRA, and other agencies, we are developing a firearm safety course designed specifically for children under the age of 18. In the meantime, the Colorado Department of Wildlife Hunter Education course is an excellent primer in not only firearm safety, but the outdoors and survival as well. For more information on our JFS course, please contact us through our Contact Page.