What are the requirements for a California CCW?

Applicants must be at least 21 years old, a resident of California, and submit fingerprints. The application is processed by County Sheriff or Municipal Police Chief.

Is training required for a California CCW?

Yes. California requires firearms training to obtain the CCW (16 hours). At least 16 hours of training covering firearm safety, applicable law, and safe handling, plus a live-fire qualification under a certified instructor (Cal. Penal Code §26165, as amended by SB 2).

How long does it take to get a California CCW?

California has not published a specific processing-time estimate for the CCW — check with County Sheriff or Municipal Police Chief for current wait times.

Can non-residents get a California CCW?

No. California generally limits the CCW to residents.

How much does the California CCW cost, and how long is it valid?

The application fee is $150. Fees vary by county — a statutory application fee (historically around $100–150) plus fingerprint (Live Scan), background-check, training, and psychological-testing costs; total costs are often several hundred dollars. The permit is valid for 2 years before renewal.

This is not legal advice.Concealed-carry reciprocity changes frequently and carries serious legal consequences. Verify current law with the destination state's official source before you carry.

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California CCW Requirements

How to get a California California License to Carry a Concealed Weapon (CCW): fees, training, fingerprints, processing time, and renewal.

How to apply

Application fee: $150 — Fees vary by county — a statutory application fee (historically around $100–150) plus fingerprint (Live Scan), background-check, training, and psychological-testing costs; total costs are often several hundred dollars.
Minimum age: 21
Training: Required — 16 hours — At least 16 hours of training covering firearm safety, applicable law, and safe handling, plus a live-fire qualification under a certified instructor (Cal. Penal Code §26165, as amended by SB 2).
Fingerprints: Required
Processing time: See official source
Validity / renewal: 2 years, then renewal
Residency: California residents only
Non-resident permit: Not available

Applications are processed by County Sheriff or Municipal Police Chief.

Steps to get a California CCW

Confirm you are eligible. Be at least 21 years old and a California resident, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and not prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law.
Complete the required firearms training. At least 16 hours of training covering firearm safety, applicable law, and safe handling, plus a live-fire qualification under a certified instructor (Cal. Penal Code §26165, as amended by SB 2).
Get fingerprinted. Submit fingerprints for the state and FBI background check as part of the application.
Submit your application to County Sheriff or Municipal Police Chief. File your California License to Carry a Concealed Weapon (CCW) application with County Sheriff or Municipal Police Chief. See the official page for forms and instructions.
Pay the application fee. Pay the CCW application fee of $150. Fees vary by county — a statutory application fee (historically around $100–150) plus fingerprint (Live Scan), background-check, training, and psychological-testing costs; total costs are often several hundred dollars.
Receive your permit and note the renewal date. Once approved, your CCW is valid for 2 years, after which it must be renewed.

Last verified 2026-07-10 against California DOJ — Carry Concealed Weapons Licenses.

Verify California rules on the official page →

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California CCW FAQ

What are the requirements for a California CCW?: Applicants must be at least 21 years old, a resident of California, and submit fingerprints. The application is processed by County Sheriff or Municipal Police Chief.
Is training required for a California CCW?: Yes. California requires firearms training to obtain the CCW (16 hours). At least 16 hours of training covering firearm safety, applicable law, and safe handling, plus a live-fire qualification under a certified instructor (Cal. Penal Code §26165, as amended by SB 2).
How long does it take to get a California CCW?: California has not published a specific processing-time estimate for the CCW — check with County Sheriff or Municipal Police Chief for current wait times.
Can non-residents get a California CCW?: No. California generally limits the CCW to residents.
How much does the California CCW cost, and how long is it valid?: The application fee is $150. Fees vary by county — a statutory application fee (historically around $100–150) plus fingerprint (Live Scan), background-check, training, and psychological-testing costs; total costs are often several hundred dollars. The permit is valid for 2 years before renewal.

Sources

California DOJ — Carry Concealed Weapons Licenses (2026-07-10)