Concealed Carry FAQ

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CHP FAQ

What is a CHP? Concealed carry, or Concealed Handgun License (CHP), is the practice of carrying a firearm in public, in a concealed manner, on one's person or in close proximity. Almost every state in the US allows for concealed carry either permitless or with a permit.

Who issues permits? Your County Sheriff.

Can a sheriff issue a permit to me, even if I don't live in the area they cover? NO. You must be a resident of their county for them to issue a permit. Most require you to show a driver's license or state-issued identification to prove your place of residence.

Is a CCW the same as a CHP? Yes, it is the same. Some states use different acronyms for a concealed carry permit. Some use CCW, some use LTC, CPL, etc. Colorado uses CHP (Concealed Handgun Permit).

Do I need a concealed handgun permit? Only if you plan to carry a handgun on your person, hidden from the view of others when out of your car, home, or business.

Who can get a concealed carry permit? All 50 U.S. states have laws in place allowing citizens to carry concealed firearms. Some states have Consitutional Carry or shall-issue permit laws, while others make it more difficult with may-issue permit laws or no-issue laws.

How long does it take to get a CHP? How long will processing take? The turnaround time for processing a concealed firearm license application is approximately 50 to 55 days.

Do I need to renew a CHP every year? The CHP permit is valid for 5 years.

Is it legal to carry a weapon in Colorado National Forests? While visiting National Forests in Colorado, you may carry a weapon. However, in addition to state laws, you must comply with Federal Regulations pertaining to the use of a firearm on National Forest System lands. A firearm may not be discharged in the following National Forest areas:

Some forest or districts have additional restrictions on discharging a firearm. You are advised to check with the authorities in the areas you will be visiting.

  • Within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied area; or
  • Across or on a Forest Development road or an adjacent body of water, or in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge; or
  • Into or within any cave. [36 CFR 261.10 (d)]

Can I travel on an airplane with my CHP? You may transport firearms and ammunition, but not as a carry on. However you CAN transport the optics as a carry on!

What type of training is required to get a CHP? Section 26165 of the Penal Code (2) The course shall include instruction on firearm safety, firearm handling, shooting technique, and laws regarding the permissible use of a firearm. (3) The course shall include live-fire shooting exercises on a firing range and shall include a demonstration by the applicant of safe handling of, and shooting proficiency with, each firearm that the applicant is applying to be licensed to carry.

Do I need a concealed carry permit (CHP) in Colorado? A CHP can be obtained by any resident at least 21 years of age who is not otherwise pro hibited from having a firearm. Without such a permit, carrying a concealed weapon is normally a violation of Colorado law. Aug 2, 2021

Does a Colorado carry permit allow me to openly carry a weapon? Your Colorado permit to carry a concealed weapon has nothing to do with Colorado open carry. However, if you possess a concealed carry permit, you may carry weapons both openly and concealed wherever not prohibited by law. Colorado is a "must-issue" concealed carry permit state. The state will issue a permit to carry a concealed weapon to anyone who is at least 21 years of age and not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm.

Is Colorado CHP valid in other states? 33 states honor a Colorado concealed carry permit: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming. https://cbi.colorado.gov/sections/firearms-instacheck-unit/concealed-handgun-permit-chp-reciprocity

How long does it take to get a CHP permit? How long will processing take? The turnaround time for processing a concealed firearm license application is approximately 50 to 55 days.

Is there a guide to all the terminology used in regards to concealed carry and firearms? Yes, please have a look at this page for a guide to Gun Terminology: A Guide To Concealed Carry Language

Should I purchase a handgun before taking the class? If you don't currently own a handgun, we recommend waiting until after the class. We have loaner firearms and gear available to complete the class and we will help you make a decision on purchasing.

What are the state requirements and cost for obtaining a Concealed permit? After receiving a certificate of class completion, state residents apply with their county Sheriffs office for a fee not to exceed $153. You must be 21 years old and satisfy the eligibility requirements.

 

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