There are multiple reasons for wanting a concealed carry permit; however, most people are interested in the idea of protecting themselves and their loved ones. This is a worthy desire, but how exactly does one receive their permit? There are several standard steps to follow in order to receive a concealed carry license or permit. It’s important to remember that the process varies from state to state, so always double-check gun laws and general guidelines for your specific state.
State Requirements
As mentioned, each state has different basic requirements regarding the minimum age to apply for a permit. Regardless of where you live, you’ll need to include proof of residency and training, perform a background check, and go through the fingerprinting process. In shall-issue states, you will receive a permit if you meet all these requirements. In may-issue states, your permit could still be denied even if you meet these criteria as judgments are made on a case-by-case basis.
Concealed Carry Classes
Your next step is to find a concealed carry class near you; this will give you foundational knowledge on the basics of defensive firearms safety. Some states require you to take this class, while others don’t. Regardless, it’s crucial to take the class to ensure you know how to properly handle a gun and stop a threat responsibly. These classes will also point you to the proper concealed carry equipment you’ll need.
Permit Application
State-specific requirements will likely include a need for CCW permit application. At this point, a copy of your driver’s license, background check, fingerprints, firearms training certificate, and a processing fee are needed. Your application can take anywhere from seven days to six months to process. It’s crucial to remain patient with this process—no matter how tempted you are, you cannot carry a concealed carry weapon until you have your permit/license in hand.
Keep these standard steps in mind when you want to receive a concealed carry license. This process can take time, money, and patience, but it’s well worth the wait to gain the right to protect yourself and your loved ones.
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