Colorado Statewide Rule
Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit Rules
Key Facts
- Permit Issued County
- Permit issued by county sheriff under CRS 18-12-201
- Minimum Age Mandatory
- Minimum age 21 with mandatory training course
- Five-Year Permit Term
- Five-year permit term with renewal required
- Restricted Schools Government
- Restricted in schools and government buildings
- Reciprocity Recognized Many
- Reciprocity recognized with many other states
Summary
Colorado requires a concealed handgun permit issued by the county sheriff to carry a concealed firearm in public, with training and background check requirements.
18-12-203. Criteria for obtaining a permit. (1) Beginning May 17, 2003, except as set forth in this section, a sheriff shall issue a permit to carry a concealed handgun to an applicant who: (a) Is a legal resident of the state of Colorado. For purposes of this part 2, a person who is a member of the armed forces and is stationed pursuant to permanent duty station orders at a military installation in this state, and a member of the person's immediate family living in Colorado, shall be deemed to be a legal resident of the state of Colorado. (b) Is twenty-one years of age or older; (c) Is not ineligible to possess a firearm pursuant to section 18-12-108 or federal law;
Full Breakdown
Under CRS 18-12-201 et seq., applicants must be at least 21, complete a handgun training course, pass a background check, and apply through the sheriff in their county of residence. Permits are valid for five years and recognized statewide. Carrying without a permit, or in restricted locations like schools and government buildings, remains prohibited. Colorado recognizes permits from many other states under reciprocity rules. Local jurisdictions may impose additional location-based restrictions following the 2021 preemption repeal.
Violations & Penalties
Carrying a concealed weapon without a valid permit is a Class 2 misdemeanor punishable by up to 120 days jail and fines up to $750.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Colorado concealed handgun permit last?
Can I carry concealed in any public building?
Sources
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