Concealed handgun permits in Denver are issued by the Denver Sheriff Department under C.R.S. 18-12-201. Applicants need training, background checks, and the new HB23-1219 three-day waiting period applies to any firearm purchase.
Colorado is a shall-issue state. Under C.R.S. 18-12-201 through 18-12-216, the Denver Sheriff Department issues concealed handgun permits to qualified Denver residents age 21 or older who complete an approved handgun training course, pass fingerprint-based background checks, and pay statutory fees. Permits are valid five years and recognized statewide except in sensitive places. Colorado HB23-1219 (2023) added a three-day waiting period for all firearm purchases. Carry is barred in K-12 schools, federal buildings, secure courthouse areas, and locations posted under DRMC 38-117.5. Out-of-state permits from reciprocity states are honored only if the holder is 21+ and the issuing state requires a background check.
Carrying a concealed handgun without a valid permit violates C.R.S. 18-12-105.5, a class 2 misdemeanor; school grounds carry under C.R.S. 18-12-105.5 is a class 1 misdemeanor with permit revocation.
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