How to Apply for a CCW in California

This article was co-authored by Dr. Jeffrey S. Harmon. Dr. Jeffrey S. Harmon is a Firearms Instructor based in Southern New Jersey. He is the Owner and Chief Operating Officer of Ironsights Academy, a firearms education & training organization that he launched to continue his love of teaching and learning. Dr. Harmon is a higher education educator with over 20 years of experience who blended his passion for teaching with shooting sports as he launched Ironsights Academy: Firearms Education & Training. Dr. Harmon is an NRA Certified Instructor in Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun, Personal Protection Inside & Outside the Home, Concealed Carry Weapons, Defensive Pistol, and a certified Chief Range Safety Officer. Dr. Harmon is also certified by the American College of Surgeons to teach Stop the Bleed courses.

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In California, obtaining a Carry Concealed Weapons (CCW) license is difficult. The sheriff has broad discretion whether to grant you the license. To apply, contact your county sheriff. You’ll have to fill out an application and complete a firearms safety course. Depending on your county, you may also have to undergo psychological testing. If you already have a CCW license from another state, you must apply for a California CCW license.