CCW FAQ
Quick answers for Fresno, Madera, Merced, Kings & Tulare (in-person) — plus Non-Resident options.
SB2-compliant training, live-fire qualification, renewals, county policies, and real-world carry questions — all in one place.
Course & Training
(Online, In-Person, Live-Fire)
Yes. Complete all required classroom instruction online at your own pace (phone, tablet, or laptop). It auto-saves progress and includes lessons, quizzes, and a final exam.
Yes — the curriculum aligns with California SB2 requirements and county standards we serve.
No in-person classroom time is needed. After finishing the online portion, you schedule your live-fire qualification with our instructor (or a local instructor for non-residents).
When you complete the online course you’ll receive an email with a scheduling link showing current range dates/times.
Bring eye/ear protection and 50 rounds for up to 3 firearms. If you’re qualifying with 4–6 firearms, bring 100 rounds total. Typical distances include 10, 7, and 3 yards; you’ll need 36 hits on target to pass.
Yes. Each handgun you list must be qualified and registered to you.
If you want hands-on coaching, dry-fire drills, and extended Q&A, we also offer an 8-hour in-person class (plus 8 hours online). Content coverage is equivalent; it’s about learning style and comfort.
Counties, Eligibility & Non-Resident Options
Fresno, Madera, Merced, Kings, & Plumas County accept our online course. Tulare County currently requires the in-person class (we offer that). Always confirm current policy on the Sheriff’s website.
Yes, qualified non-residents can train with our Online Non-Resident California CCW Course, complete a live-fire qualification with a local instructor near you, then apply with an approved California county listed at 559CCW.com.
Yes. A California CCW is valid statewide. (Administrative rules like disclosure policies can vary by issuing agency — see “Legal & Travel.”)
Yes — California permits are valid in 28 other states. Always check each destination state’s current carry/transport laws before you go.
Applications, Interview, Renewal & Modifications
- Complete required training (online course + live-fire qualification).
- Apply with your Sheriff (application, fees, LiveScan, background).
- Interview with sheriff.
- Upon approval, pay any final fees and receive your permit.
A short, professional conversation (often 15–20 minutes) confirming details from your application (address, background, references) and your reasons for seeking a permit. Be truthful and transparent.
Timelines vary by county, but many Central Valley applicants report around 45–60 days, with some as quick as ~30 days.
California permits typically expire every 2 years. Start your renewal before it lapses to avoid interruption.
Renewals require 8 hours of training. Our 100% Online Renewal Course is self-paced, mobile-friendly, and provides your renewal certificate upon completion. (Online Renewal Course only valid in Fresno, Madera, Merced, Kings, & Plumas County)
Yes — we typically send email reminders around 3 months prior to your renewal window.
Qualify with the additional firearm (same course of fire), then we issue an add-on certificate for your Sheriff modification request.
Our training certificate does not expire on our end. That said, some agencies prefer recent training — always check your issuing Sheriff’s current policy.
No. If you move counties, you must apply with your new county’s Sheriff and complete their full process.
Safety, Legal, Transport & Travel
State law doesn’t mandate disclosure statewide. Some Sheriffs do require you to disclose if an officer makes personal contact. Know your issuing agency’s policy and follow it.
Keep the firearm unloaded, in a locked container, with ammunition stored separately when it’s not on your person. Use a cable lock or small vehicle safe that secures to the car structure when leaving a firearm in the vehicle.
Your California CCW is valid in 28 states, but laws differ widely. Verify possession, transport, and carry rules (and any “gun-free” locations) before you cross state lines.
Before exiting your vehicle, unload, lock the firearm in a secure container, and separate ammo. Comply with posted rules and local law.
Policies can differ by issuing agency. Many California counties allow optics during qualification and carry. Check your Sheriff’s current policy if unsure.
Avoid risky situations whenever possible; Escape if danger develops; Defend only if you face imminent threat and have no safe alternative. It’s a mindset that keeps you safe and within the law.
Disqualifications
Yes. Providing false information or being untruthful at any point in the process is an automatic reason for denial.
Yes. Patterns such as a suspended driver’s license, frequent traffic citations, or repeated civil issues may be seen as signs of irresponsibility and can lead to denial.
Possibly. Any arrest within the last 5 years or any conviction within the last 7 years may be grounds for denial, regardless of how the case ended.
Yes. A history of domestic disturbances or similar behavioral concerns can be considered by the Sheriff’s Office.
Yes. Failing the live-fire qualification, not completing the required 16 hours of training, or failing to submit correct documentation on time can all result in denial.
Yes. Any firearm you list on your permit must be legally possessed and registered solely in your name. Unlawful or improperly registered firearms will disqualify the application.
Q: Do I need to live in the county I’m applying through?
Yes. Your primary residence must be within the county you are applying to.
