When it comes to mandatory CCW training, there are differing standards between states - though almost all states have a baseline. That said, you will need to sit for a course that satisfies the training requirements in your state in order to receive your concealed carry permit.
It behooves the interested person to know what to expect from courses and what they will demand of a person.
Classroom CCW Training Requirements Can Be Minimal Or Extensive
The first thing to look into regarding CCW training requirements is what your state requires. This article will explore that a little later, but since so much of firearms law is left to the states, that means you had better do your homework.
With that said, there are some common themes.
The most common requirement is a very basic, cursory course in order to get a concealed carry permit. Most of the time, it covers the basics of firearms function and operation, the basics of and so on. In many cases, the NRA Basic Pistol course (offered in all 50 states by certified NRA instructors) will satisfy state requirements and it is also common for hunter's safety courses to qualify as well.
Some states, however, have more stringent requirements. In states where more exhaustive classroom training is required, firearm safety will certainly be covered but so will topics more pertinent to daily carry. Often enough, self-defense law and firearms law will be covered, so the person seeking the license will get instruction in lawful defense of one's self. Carry laws, such as the legal manner in which one can carry on foot, in one's car and in various locations will be covered as well.
There may or may not be an examination involved; whether one is required or not depends on state regulations and/or the course in question.
Other aspects that may get covered are concealed carry reciprocity, how to interact with law enforcement and other topics.
In states such as where an enhanced concealed carry license is available, there will be a base license with more basic requirements and more strenuous requirements for the enhanced license.
Live Fire Instruction
Live-fire instruction will also vary, depending on the course offered and what the state requires.
For the most basic of courses, typically the range portion of the course will be brief. Every person attending will probably get a chance to shoot a gun a few times. They may even get to load one. However, it won't be too extensive.
For more comprehensive shooting courses required for a CPL, students will usually be asked to bring their own gun and a supply of ammunition. The instructor may go over basic marksmanship and defensive shooting. Students may receive some feedback on technique, what adjustments need to be made and what to focus on in future shooting practice.
Another aspect is that there may be a qualification shoot involved. A few states - not many, but there are a few - require an applicant for a license to pass a qualification shoot, just like police, federal agents and the military have to be able to do.
With a qualification shoot, the test-taker shoots a course of scored fire. If they achieve the minimum requisite score, they pass. If not...they don't pass the course and thus won't get the endorsement for the license to . Again, only a few states require a qualification shoot and not all courses will require it. Some courses may require a qualification shoot despite state law not mandating it.
Select State Concealed Carry Training Requirements
Below is a selection of state concealed carry training requirements, so the interested person can get an idea of what state requirements look like and what they may have to expect. Required classroom instruction and live-fire instruction is included, as well as any additional pertinent information.
Texas concealed carry training requirements: though Texas would seem to be one of the most politically conservative and therefore gun-friendly states in the union, the Lone Star state has some of the more stringent requirements for concealed handgun permits. (And overrated pro football teams.) Four to six hours of classroom instruction is required, covering firearms and self-defense laws, non-violent dispute resolution, safe storage and general firearms safety and use. In addition, a range day is also required along with a qualification shoot.
Arizona concealed carry training requirements: Arizona's concealed carry training requirements are maintained by the Arizona Department of Public Safety, which includes the Arizona highway patrol. They require proof of completion of an approved course that teaches "competence with a firearm." Approved courses include hunter's safety, any NRA training course and a list of other approved courses.
South Carolina concealed carry training requirements: South Carolina has similar requirements to Texas. The state requires an applicant to complete a course of classroom and live-fire instruction. Required materials include statutory and case law regarding use of firearms and self-defense, state firearms and permit law, safe storage, gun-free zones and prohibited carry locations, liabilities and responsibilities regarding firearms, how to interact with law enforcement, the four rules of gun safety, handgun operation and safe operation, basic marksmanship, concealed carry techniques including draw techniques, and a shooting qualification course.
Arkansas concealed carry training requirements: to obtain an Arkansas license, an applicant must take an approved course. The course must include "proficiency with use of a handgun on the firing range" so the course must therefore include a live-fire component. So long as the course is state-approved (the state maintains a list of approved courses and instructors) a certificate of training is all that's needed.
Vermont concealed carry training requirements: has only ever been constitutional carry. No training is required, though private instruction is available.
Idaho concealed carry training requirements: while Idaho is a constitutional carry state, both base licenses and enhanced licenses are available. The base course has very similar requirements to Arizona's license, but an enhanced license requires 8 hours of total training. This includes 4 hours of classroom instruction including safe handling, firearms and self-defense law (which must be taught by an attorney) and 4 hours of range instruction, including a live-fire portion.
Each state's concealed carry training requirements are different, of course, but hopefully this gives you an idea of what will be required for you.
States Concealed Carry Training Requirements FAQs
Which states require concealed carry training courses?
Most states require some form of firearms training or safety course before issuing a concealed carry permit, though the details vary widely. States like California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island require completion of a firearm safety course, often including live-fire range qualification and instruction in state firearms law. States such as Idaho, Tennessee, and Oregon offer basic permits with online or minimal practical requirements, while others maintain no permit or training requirement at all.
What topics are typically covered in concealed carry training?
Concealed carry training commonly covers safe handgun handling, basic marksmanship, legal responsibilities, state-specific firearms laws, the lawful use of deadly force, and conflict avoidance techniques. Many states mandate coursework on secure firearm storage and child safety, as well as live-fire shooting exercises to demonstrate practical competency.
Which states require live-fire shooting qualification for concealed carry?
A select group of states, including California, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island, require live-fire range instruction and shooting tests as part of their training requirements for concealed carry. States such as Oregon and Idaho allow online or classroom-only courses with no mandated live-fire component for basic permits.
Are online concealed carry classes accepted by all states?
States differ on whether online concealed carry classes meet training requirements. Some, like Idaho and Oregon, accept approved online courses for standard permits, often with no live-fire requirement. However, states with stricter standards or live-fire mandates (e.g., California, Delaware, New York) require in-person classes to fulfill practical range qualification. Always confirm with your state licensing authority before enrolling in any online training program.
What are the differences between basic and enhanced concealed carry permits?
Basic concealed carry permits typically require a standard safety or legal training course, which may be completed online or in a classroom. Enhanced permits, available in states like Idaho and Tennessee, demand more extensive instruction, including in-person classes, qualification shoots, and expanded curriculum on legal topics. Enhanced permits are often recognized by a larger number of states through reciprocity agreements.
How do states verify compliance with concealed carry training requirements?
Verification usually involves submitting a signed certificate of completion from a state-approved instructor or accredited course provider with your permit application. For live-fire requirements, documentation often includes confirmation of hands-on range qualification. Some states require applicants to pass a written test and/or complete a practical shooting assessment under instructor supervision.
What is 'permitless carry' and which states have it?
Permitless carry (or "constitutional carry") means any eligible adult can carry a concealed firearm without the need for a permit or mandatory training. As of July 2025, 29 states allow some form of permitless carry, though many still offer optional permits for reciprocity purposes. It is important to note that even in permitless states, knowledge of firearm law and safe handling remains critical, and training is strongly recommended by professionals.
Do concealed carry permits require renewal training?
The renewal process and training requirements for concealed carry permits vary. Some states mandate refresher courses or updated safety training for permit renewal, while others simply require a background check and updated paperwork. The most stringent states require both updated instruction and proof of ongoing proficiency.
Are non-residents subject to the same training requirements for concealed carry permits?
Training requirements for non-residents vary by state. Many states accept only resident applications for concealed permits, but some issue non-resident permits provided the applicant completes state-approved training and meets eligibility criteria. The training curriculum for non-residents is typically identical to that required for residents, including classroom instruction and, if mandated, live-fire qualification.
How do state reciprocity agreements affect concealed carry permit validity and training standards?
States recognize each other's concealed carry permits through reciprocity agreements, but these are often contingent on similar training standards. Permits from states with more rigorous or in-person training are more widely honored in other jurisdictions. Conversely, states with minimal or online-only requirements usually face stricter limitations on reciprocity