How to Get a Concealed Carry Permit in Denver

Obtaining a concealed carry permit in Denver is a significant responsibility that grants lawful individuals the right to carry a hidden firearm for personal protection. While Colorado state law governs the issuance of concealed carry permits, Denver residents must navigate both state-level requirements and local administrative procedures to secure authorization. Understanding the full process—from eligibility and application to training and approval—is essential for compliance, safety, and legal peace of mind. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap tailored specifically to Denver residents seeking a concealed carry permit, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and practicality at every stage.

The importance of this permit extends beyond legal compliance. In an increasingly complex social environment, many responsible gun owners view concealed carry as a necessary tool for personal defense. However, carrying a firearm in public demands not only legal authorization but also a deep commitment to safety, situational awareness, and ethical decision-making. This guide is designed to empower you with the knowledge to navigate the system efficiently while upholding the highest standards of responsibility.

By following this detailed tutorial, you will gain a clear understanding of the legal framework, documentation requirements, training standards, and local nuances unique to Denver. Whether you are a first-time applicant or someone renewing an expired permit, this resource ensures you are fully prepared to meet all state and municipal obligations without unnecessary delays or missteps.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility Under Colorado Law

Before beginning the application process, verify that you meet all state-mandated eligibility criteria. Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-12-203 outline the qualifications for obtaining a concealed carry permit. You must:

• Be at least 21 years of age
• Be a legal resident of Colorado or a U.S. citizen residing in the state
• Not be prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law
• Not have been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanor offenses (including domestic violence)
• Not be subject to a protection order related to domestic violence
• Not be adjudicated mentally ill or committed to a mental institution
• Not be an unlawful user of or addicted to controlled substances

It is critical to review your criminal history and mental health records. Even minor offenses or expunged records may disqualify you if they fall under prohibited categories. If you are uncertain about your eligibility, consult the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or a qualified attorney specializing in firearms law. Self-assessment at this stage prevents wasted time and fees on an application that may be denied.

Step 2: Complete a State-Approved Firearms Training Course

Colorado law requires all applicants to complete a certified firearms safety and training course. The course must include both classroom instruction and live-fire range time. It must cover:

• Safe handling and storage of firearms
• Colorado firearms laws, including where concealed carry is prohibited
• Use-of-force principles and legal responsibilities
• Conflict de-escalation and situational awareness
• Practical shooting proficiency (minimum of 30 rounds fired under supervision)

Training must be conducted by an instructor certified by the Colorado Department of Public Safety (CDPS). In Denver, several reputable providers offer courses, including:

• Denver Firearms Academy
• Colorado Gun Safety Institute
• Rocky Mountain Concealed Carry
• Local NRA-certified instructors

Ensure the course you select is explicitly approved for concealed carry permit applications. Ask for a certificate that includes the instructor’s CDPS certification number, course date, and your full name. Retain this document—it is non-negotiable for submission. Many courses are offered on weekends and can be completed in a single day. Expect to pay between $75 and $150, depending on location and materials provided.

Step 3: Gather Required Documentation

Once you have completed your training, assemble the following documents:

• Completed Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit Application (Form

  001)

• Original or certified copy of your firearms training certificate
• Valid government-issued photo ID (Colorado driver’s license or state ID)
• Proof of Colorado residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days)
• Two recent passport-style photographs (2” x 2” with white background)
• Payment for the application fee (currently $152.50 for new applicants; check with Denver Sheriff’s Office for updates)

Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and free of alterations. Photocopies of training certificates are not accepted unless certified by the issuing institution. If your name has changed due to marriage or court order, include legal documentation of the change (e.g., marriage certificate or court decree).

Step 4: Submit Your Application to the Denver Sheriff’s Office

Applications for concealed carry permits in Denver must be submitted in person at the Denver Sheriff’s Office, located at:

Denver Sheriff’s Office – Firearms Permit Unit

201 W. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO 80202

Room 115, 1st Floor

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding state holidays. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are strongly recommended to reduce wait times. You can schedule an appointment by calling (720) 913-2500 or visiting the official Denver Sheriff’s Office website.

At the time of submission, you will be fingerprinted on-site using the state’s electronic system. This is a mandatory part of the background check process. You will also be photographed for your permit card. Bring a check or money order for the fee—cash is accepted, but credit cards are not.

After submission, you will receive a receipt with a tracking number. Keep this in a secure location. Processing typically takes 45 to 90 days, though delays can occur during high-volume periods.

Step 5: Await Background Check and Approval

Once your application is submitted, the Denver Sheriff’s Office initiates a comprehensive background check through the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This check reviews:

• Criminal history at state and federal levels
• Domestic violence restraining orders
• Mental health commitments
• Drug-related convictions
• Previous denials of firearm purchases

Any red flag may result in a request for additional documentation or an interview. If discrepancies arise—such as a name mismatch or outdated address—you will be contacted by mail. Respond promptly to avoid delays. Denials are rare for fully qualified applicants but can occur due to incomplete paperwork or unresolved legal issues.

During this period, do not carry a concealed firearm without a valid permit. Doing so is a Class 2 misdemeanor under Colorado law and may result in arrest, fines, and permanent disqualification from future applications.

Step 6: Receive and Activate Your Permit

If approved, your concealed carry permit will be mailed to the address listed on your application. The permit is valid for five years from the date of issuance. Upon receipt:

• Verify all personal information is accurate
• Sign the permit in the designated space
• Carry the permit with you whenever you are armed
• Keep a digital or physical copy in a secure location

Your permit authorizes you to carry a concealed handgun anywhere in Colorado where it is legally permitted. However, certain locations remain off-limits, including schools, government buildings, courthouses, and private property where posted. Always respect “No Firearms” signage—even if it is not legally enforceable in all contexts, ignoring it may lead to trespassing charges or revocation of your permit.

Step 7: Renew Your Permit Before Expiration

Renewal applications must be submitted no earlier than 90 days and no later than 30 days before your permit expires. The renewal process is streamlined but still requires:

• Completed renewal application form
• Proof of continued residency
• Renewal fee ($152.50)
• Proof of recent firearms training (within the last five years)

While renewal applicants are not required to retake the full training course, they must provide documentation of at least four hours of continuing education or a refresher course covering Colorado law and safety protocols. Many instructors offer discounted renewal classes specifically for permit holders.

Failure to renew on time results in automatic expiration. A lapsed permit requires reapplying as a new applicant, including full background checks and training. Plan ahead to avoid gaps in coverage.

Best Practices

Maintain Continuous Training and Proficiency

Obtaining a concealed carry permit is not the end of your responsibility—it is the beginning. Laws change. Skills degrade. Situations evolve. Top-tier permit holders treat firearms proficiency as a lifelong commitment. Schedule quarterly range sessions to maintain accuracy, speed, and safety under stress. Consider advanced courses in defensive tactics, low-light shooting, and legal updates.

Many instructors in Denver offer annual refresher clinics that fulfill renewal requirements while enhancing real-world readiness. These are not optional luxuries—they are essential for responsible ownership.

Know and Respect Local and State Restrictions

Colorado is a “shall issue” state, but that does not mean you can carry everywhere. Denver has specific ordinances that align with state law but are enforced with particular rigor. Prohibited locations include:

• All public and private K-12 schools and school buses
• Government buildings, including courthouses and city halls
• Public transportation vehicles and facilities (RTD buses, trains, stations)
• Bars and establishments where alcohol is the primary revenue source
• Private property with posted “No Firearms” signs
• Any place where federal law prohibits firearms (e.g., federal buildings, military bases)

Even if a sign is not legally binding under Colorado’s “constitutional carry” exceptions for private property, ignoring it may result in civil trespass or permit revocation. Always err on the side of caution.

Carry Responsibly and Ethically

Concealed carry is not a status symbol. It is a tool of last resort. Never brandish your firearm in anger, frustration, or as a deterrent. Never use it to intimidate or threaten. The moment you draw your weapon, you enter a legal and moral minefield. Even if you are legally justified, the consequences—emotional, financial, and social—can be devastating.

Develop a mindset of avoidance and de-escalation. Your goal is to prevent violence, not engage in it. If you feel threatened, remove yourself from the situation if possible. Call 911. Let law enforcement handle it. Your permit gives you the right to defend life—not to escalate conflict.

Document Everything

Keep a digital and physical file of every document related to your permit: training certificates, renewal receipts, correspondence with the Sheriff’s Office, and any legal notices. In the unlikely event your permit is challenged, revoked, or questioned during a lawful stop, having a complete record protects your rights.

Also, consider using a secure app or cloud service to store digital copies of your permit. Many law enforcement officers now accept digital verification via state-issued apps, though a physical permit must still be carried.

Stay Informed on Legal Changes

Colorado firearms laws evolve. In recent years, changes have occurred regarding carry in state parks, public transit, and private business policies. Subscribe to updates from the Colorado Sheriff’s Association, the National Rifle Association’s Institute for Legislative Action (ILA), or the Colorado Gun Owners Action League. These organizations provide timely, accurate summaries of legislative changes affecting permit holders.

Tools and Resources

Official State and Local Resources

Always rely on official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information:

• Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) – Firearms Permit Section: https://www.colorado.gov/cbi/firearms-permits
  Provides downloadable forms, training standards, and FAQs.
• Denver Sheriff’s Office – Firearms Permit Unit: https://www.denversheriff.org/firearms-permits
  Application details, appointment scheduling, and office hours.
• Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-12-203: https://leg.colorado.gov/statutes/18-12-203
  Full legal text governing concealed carry eligibility and restrictions.
• Colorado Department of Public Safety (CDPS): https://cdps.colorado.gov
  Lists certified instructors and training standards.

Training and Education Platforms

These organizations offer high-quality, state-approved courses in and around Denver:

• Denver Firearms Academy: Offers beginner to advanced concealed carry courses with certified instructors.
• Colorado Gun Safety Institute: Focuses on legal education and defensive mindset training.
• NRA Basic Pistol Course: Nationally recognized and accepted for Colorado permit applications.
• Concealed Carry Nation: Online platform with state-specific guides and instructor directories.

Mobile Apps for Permit Holders

Several apps assist responsible permit holders in navigating laws and restrictions:

• Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map (by USCCA): Shows where your Colorado permit is honored across state lines.
• US Law Shield App: Provides legal access to attorneys specializing in self-defense cases.
• Gun Laws by State (by Legal Heat): Interactive map of state-specific carry laws and restrictions.

Legal Support and Advocacy Groups

While not a substitute for legal counsel, these organizations offer educational resources and advocacy:

• Colorado Gun Owners Action League (COGAL): State-level advocacy for responsible gun ownership.
• National Rifle Association (NRA): Training programs, legal defense resources, and legislative updates.
• Second Amendment Foundation: Legal defense fund and educational materials for gun owners.

Recommended Reading

Deepen your understanding with these authoritative texts:

• “The Law of Self Defense” by Andrew Branca – The definitive guide to legal use-of-force principles in Colorado.
• “Concealed Carry: The Complete Guide to Safe and Legal Carry” by Massad Ayoob – Practical advice on mindset, equipment, and legal boundaries.
• “Colorado Firearms Law Handbook” by the Colorado Sheriff’s Association – Official state guide updated annually.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah M., Denver Resident – First-Time Applicant

Sarah, a 32-year-old nurse, applied for her concealed carry permit after witnessing a robbery near her apartment. She began by researching eligibility and found she met all criteria. She enrolled in a weekend course at Denver Firearms Academy, completed the 8-hour program, and passed the live-fire test with a score of 95%. She gathered her documents, including her training certificate, Colorado ID, and proof of residency (her apartment lease). She scheduled an appointment at the Denver Sheriff’s Office, was fingerprinted, and submitted her application. After 62 days, she received her permit in the mail. Sarah now attends quarterly training sessions and carries only when she feels the situation warrants it—never impulsively. She credits her preparation with giving her peace of mind.

Example 2: James T., Renewal Applicant – Avoiding Lapse

James held a valid permit for five years but forgot to renew until 45 days after expiration. He assumed his permit would automatically renew. When he attempted to carry during a trip to Boulder, he was stopped by law enforcement. Although no charges were filed, his permit was revoked, and he was required to reapply as a new applicant. He had to retake the full training course and undergo another background check. He later stated, “I thought I knew the system. I didn’t. I lost three months and $150 because I didn’t set a reminder.” He now uses a calendar alert and keeps a renewal checklist on his phone.

Example 3: Maria L., Denied Application – Lesson Learned

Maria applied for a permit after a domestic dispute in 2020. She believed the case was dismissed and therefore did not disclose it. Her application was denied after the CBI background check flagged a prior arrest record. She appealed, providing court documents proving the charges were dropped. The Sheriff’s Office reviewed the case and approved her application after 90 additional days. Maria now advises applicants: “If you have any record—even if it’s old or dismissed—disclose it. Hiding it is worse than the record itself.”

Example 4: David R., Out-of-State Resident – Moving to Denver

David moved from Texas to Denver with a valid Texas concealed carry permit. He assumed it would be honored indefinitely. After three months, he was advised by a local attorney that Colorado requires residency-based permits. He enrolled in a Colorado-approved training course, submitted his application, and received his permit within 58 days. He now carries only his Colorado permit and keeps his Texas permit as a backup for travel. He emphasizes: “Don’t assume reciprocity lasts forever. Know the rules of your new home.”

FAQs

Can I carry a concealed firearm in Denver without a permit?

No. Colorado allows constitutional carry for open carry only. Concealed carry requires a valid permit. Carrying concealed without a permit is a Class 2 misdemeanor and can result in arrest, fines up to $1,000, and up to 12 months in jail.

How long does it take to get a concealed carry permit in Denver?

Processing typically takes 45 to 90 days. Delays may occur due to incomplete applications, background check complications, or high application volumes. Submitting accurate, complete documentation is the best way to avoid delays.

Can I carry my firearm in Denver’s public parks?

Yes. Colorado law permits concealed carry in public parks and recreational areas unless specifically prohibited by posted signage. Always check for signs and respect private property boundaries within park areas.

What if I move out of Denver? Do I need a new permit?

No. Your Colorado concealed carry permit is valid statewide. However, if you move to a new county, you should notify the Denver Sheriff’s Office of your new address. You may also choose to transfer your permit to your new county of residence for administrative purposes.

Can I carry in a restaurant that serves alcohol?

You may carry in restaurants that serve alcohol if the establishment’s primary business is food service. However, if more than 50% of revenue comes from alcohol sales, concealed carry is prohibited. Look for signage or ask management.

Does my permit allow me to carry in other states?

Colorado has reciprocity agreements with 35+ states, including Texas, Florida, and Arizona. However, reciprocity is not universal. Always check the current reciprocity map before traveling. Some states honor your permit only under specific conditions.

Can I renew my permit online?

No. Renewal applications must be submitted in person at the Denver Sheriff’s Office. You may schedule an appointment online, but fingerprinting and photo capture are required on-site.

What if I lose my permit?

Report the loss immediately to the Denver Sheriff’s Office. You may apply for a replacement for a $25 fee. Carry a photocopy or digital image as a temporary backup until the replacement arrives.

Can I carry a concealed firearm while under the influence of alcohol?

Absolutely not. Colorado law prohibits carrying a concealed firearm while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. Violation is a felony offense and will result in immediate permit revocation and criminal prosecution.

Do I need to inform law enforcement if I’m carrying a concealed firearm?

Colorado law does not require you to disclose that you are carrying unless asked. However, if you are stopped by law enforcement, it is strongly recommended to calmly inform the officer you are carrying and follow their instructions precisely. Failure to do so may be interpreted as a threat.

Conclusion

Obtaining a concealed carry permit in Denver is a serious, structured process that demands preparation, discipline, and ongoing responsibility. It is not merely a bureaucratic hurdle—it is a lifelong commitment to safety, legality, and ethical conduct. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you position yourself not only to obtain your permit but to wield it with wisdom and restraint.

The journey begins with eligibility, continues through rigorous training, and culminates in the quiet confidence of knowing you are prepared—legally and morally—for the responsibilities that come with carrying a firearm. But remember: the permit is not a license to act recklessly. It is a privilege earned through diligence and upheld through vigilance.

As you move forward, invest in continuous education, stay informed about legal changes, and prioritize de-escalation over confrontation. Your permit grants you the right to protect life—not to take it. Use it wisely.

Denver’s streets are safer when responsible, law-abiding citizens carry with awareness and humility. You are not just applying for a permit—you are joining a community of individuals committed to safety, preparedness, and the rule of law. Welcome to that community. Now go forward, trained, informed, and ready.