How to Apply for a California Concealed Weapon Permit
It's possible to obtain a concealed weapon permit in California (CCW permit or license), but the process is lengthy and thorough, and includes detailed background checks. Local law enforcement must make sure that you can mentally and emotionally handle the responsibility, and that you won't be dangerous while armed.
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Things You'll Need
- CCW application form
- Valid personal ID, such as driver's license
- Two proofs of residency at your permanent residence
- Enough money to pay any required fees
- Each weapon you wish to have listed on the permit
Instructions
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Contact the county sheriff's department for your county of permanent residence. If you live in a city with a police department, contact the police chief. Ask for a CCW application form and a copy of the department's policy statement for CCW permits. If both agencies take CCW applications, choose the one that has policies more likely to be favorable to your specific situation.
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Write a Good Cause statement. This explains to your local law enforcement why you need a CCW permit. In general, good reasons all involve a fear of death or great bodily harm due to your profession. For example, such reasons might include if you work in criminal justice, medicine or weaponry sales; you regularly carry large sums of money or items of high monetary value; you travel in or through dangerous urban areas or remote rural places; or you've faced actual documented past threats that are likely to recur. If your city or county doesn't require a written statement, it's still helpful to write one to organize your thoughts on what to say at an interview.
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Fill out the CCW application form before your interview with the sheriff or police department. Be prepared for fingerprinting, photos and filling out an interview form before the interview. There may also be a psychiatric exam.
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Bring up to three weapons you wish to list on your license. After the interview, you need to pass a Safe Firearms Handling course and qualify each listed weapon at a range test.
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Tips & Warnings
Always present a professional demeanor to local law enforcement during the application process. Be clean, well-groomed and neatly dressed. In written correspondence, use proper spelling and grammar.
Don't talk about your second amendment rights during the application process. It won't help you get approval for a CCW license.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Man with a gun image by patrimonio designs from Fotolia.com
