How do I get a concealed carry permit in Colorado?

Colorado's Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) is regulated under C.R.S. § 18-12-201 et seq. and issued by the county sheriff of the applicant's residence.

1. Eligibility (§ 18-12-203)

At least 21 years old (raised from 18 by SB 23-169 in 2023).

Colorado resident.

No felony conviction; no domestic violence misdemeanor.

No chronic or habitual user of alcohol.

No unlawful drug use.

No mental incompetency adjudication.

2. Training Requirement (§ 18-12-202(5))

State-approved handgun safety class taught by a certified instructor.

Most courses run 4-8 hours, including classroom and live-fire range qualification.

Hunter safety alone is not sufficient.

3. Application

Apply in person at your county sheriff's office.

Submit application, training certificate, fingerprints (CBI/FBI), and fee.

4. Fees

$52.50 to county sheriff + $39.50 CBI fingerprint fee + $13.25 FBI fee + permit fee variations = ~$152.50 total.

5. Processing

90 days by statute (§ 18-12-206).

6. Restricted Locations

K-12 schools (with new restrictions under HB 24-1353), federal buildings, courtrooms, polling places (under certain conditions), and posted private property.

7. Reciprocity

Colorado recognizes permits from states with substantially similar requirements; Colorado CHP honored in ~35 states.

8. Renewal

Valid 5 years; renewal $52.50 with refresher class strongly encouraged but not required by statute (some sheriffs may impose additional requirements).

This is legal information, not legal advice.