For educational reference only. Laws change frequently. Always verify current requirements with Colorado's official issuing authority before carrying a firearm. This is not legal advice.
CCW Permit Guide
Colorado Concealed Carry Permit 2026
Colorado concealed carry requirements: permit fees, training hours, reciprocity states, prohibited locations, and official application information.
Colorado is a shall-issue state with no permitless carry. A Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) is required. Local jurisdictions may restrict open carry. Colorado has limited reciprocity agreements compared to many other shall-issue states.
Shall-Issue State
Non-Resident Permits Available
Open Carry Allowed
2026 CCW Quick Facts
Reference 2026
Resident Fee
$53
Required for concealed carry
Validity
5yr
Renewal required after expiration
Training
Required
Firearm safety course including live fire component
Processing
90
typical processing time
Permit Details
Colorado CCW Permit Requirements
Official requirements for obtaining a Colorado concealed carry permit or weapon license.
Issuing Authority
County Sheriff (Concealed Handgun Permit)
— Official Site
Permitless Carry
Permit Required — a permit is required to carry concealed
Issue Standard
Shall Issue — the issuing authority must issue a permit to any qualified applicant who meets the requirements
Open Carry
Allowed
— no permit required for open carry
Resident Fee
$52.50
Non-Resident Fee
$52.50
Permit Valid
5 years from issuance date — renewal required
Minimum Age
21 years old (resident permit)
Background Check
Required — FBI NICS background check required for permit application
Processing Time
90
Duty to Inform
No Requirement — no legal duty to proactively disclose, though voluntary disclosure is generally recommended
Training Requirements
Colorado CCW Training Requirements
Training Required
Colorado requires completion of an approved firearms training course before a permit will be issued.
Approved training types: Firearm safety course including live fire component.
Reciprocity
States Whose Permits Colorado Honors
Colorado recognizes concealed carry permits from the following states (29 states):
Verify current status before traveling. Each state's carry laws still apply.
Prohibited Locations
Where You Cannot Carry in Colorado
Schools, courthouses, public buildings with security, polling places, any facility owned by municipality that has restricted carry, federal buildings
Note: Federal law also prohibits carry in federal facilities, federal courthouses, and other locations regardless of state law. Always check both state and federal restrictions.
Important Notes
Colorado-Specific CCW Information
Local jurisdictions in Colorado may enact stricter firearms laws, including open carry restrictions in cities like Denver. Colorado's reciprocity list is smaller than many other western states. Background check required for all permit applications.
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Concealed carry laws in Colorado are subject to change through legislation and court decisions. Always verify current requirements with County Sheriff (Concealed Handgun Permit) or a qualified firearms attorney before carrying a firearm.