Obtaining a CCW in the State of California

[ClickClack]

Hello members, I am interested in obtaining a CCW in California. I am aware that it is hard to obtain but maybe the new bill that just passed might help?? I have a clean record, never had anything to do with police officers let alone been arrested, just two traffic violation tickets that I am sure are wiped off my record. My question to you guys is if there are ANY steps I can take to have a better chance, maybe taking ccw courses or training. I just dont want to spend the money if you guys believe it will do me no good..

hope to hear positive feedback, thank you

 

[dumb okie]

What county do you live in? That makes all the difference in the world. It can range from very easy to impossible.

 

[Tucker's Mom]

If I heard it right, then you will either go on a long process of obtaining one, unless otherwise you "know" someone from the "higher-ups". A rejection is a rejection and it will go against your record. I will assume you live in Kommiefornia? Welcome to this group...and learn. If I were you, the first thing I'd do is move out of there. We did...

 

[Twistedcowboy]

My dad used to be a bank currier & he had his CCW in Sacramento County. Since California is "may issue," its up to the sheriff in your county. Find out his disposition on the subject. If he does allow it, you will have to "qualify" by shooting. You have to bring 500 rounds and shoot them all even if you qualify on the first few you shoot.

 

[ClickClack]

I live in San Diego county where I hear our sheriff is a complete pricks about ccws. I heard that if you apply and get rejected it looks bad on your record, I have no idea why but that is the primary reason I'm hesitant about going with the process.

 

[crapbag]

Do your research first. Make sure you have a legit "good cause" statement that you can back up. I reside in San Diego County and was told be everyone that I asked that it was impossible to get my CCW without knowing someone or being ex-police. As a business owner (photographer) that travels into less than desirable neighborhoods with high-dollar equipment I went forward anyway. I had to document all of my equipment and provide current contracts and pay about $400 total with certification and licensing. All in all it was a hassle compared to other "shall issue" states but the safety of my family and myself is worth the cost. Long story short, it's possible but you will need to work for it.

Feel free to PM if you have questions...

 

[imrambi]

My recommendation is to follow what crapbag stated. If you get rejected, don't take it as the end of the world. If you get rejected, contact SAF, and give them all the details. They can either help more, or help with a lawsuit.

 

[ClickClack]

Thanks crap bag, i appreciate it. i sent a message but dont know if i did it right? was the interview nerve wrecking?

 

[ClickClack]

i grew up in neighborhoods where i would see gangsters on a daily basis walking around with concealed firearms, at one point seeing a young male pull out a firearm and place it to another males head in a fast food place, then firing a round into the sky. Growing up in those types of neighborhoods I realized how many people illegally carry firearms and i definitely wouldnt want to be caught in a situation like that. I just think it is stupid that things have to happen in order for authorities to feel like you do need that permit. I am a firm believer in being prepared.

 

[crapbag]

Thanks crap bag, i appreciate it. i sent a message but dont know if i did it right? was the interview nerve wrecking?

Responded to the PM. As far as the interview goes, it was with a clerk that handles all of the sheriff's licensing. She tried to talk me out of applying in the initial interview but I think it was just a ploy to weed out people that weren't serious about it. After the initial I had to go to a CCW class and then qualify at the range (the easiest part). Then you get your paperwork/documentation together and wait for the background check to go through. Took about 4 mos total, then the call came to pick up my license. I was as surprised as anyone. Good luck with the process, it'll be nice to have another "good guy" carrying around these parts.

 

[spf159753]

I Moved out of California.
Here in Washington State, you fill out some paperwork,get finger printed, pay approx $60,
then in about two weeks ,your concealed pistol licence, arrives in your mail box.

 

[retiredman]

I had a traffic ticket when I was 18 years old, and for that reason I was denied!

Now a CCW instructor in Oklahoma.

California better pray they never need my help!

 

[maybejim]

Hello members, I am interested in obtaining a CCW in California. I am aware that it is hard to obtain but maybe the new bill that just passed might help?? I have a clean record, never had anything to do with police officers let alone been arrested, just two traffic violation tickets that I am sure are wiped off my record. My question to you guys is if there are ANY steps I can take to have a better chance, maybe taking ccw courses or training. I just dont want to spend the money if you guys believe it will do me no good..

hope to hear positive feedback, thank you

As someone else said, it depends primarily on what county you live and/or work in. You probably should look at Calguns.net and California Concealed Carry Forum.

 

[jon@hmbgny]

You guys and gales think its bad in calif. i live in erie county n.y im waiting already 5 months for my ccw and 3 wks ago i was attacked by 3 felas 3 streets from where i got my finger prints from i emailed the the county clerk about what happened & the deputy clerk got backed to me 4 days later and told me she gave my email to the supream court judge wlliam boller who says yes or no. i just wanted to let them know im diabled and i couldnt run away what should i do if it should happen agian or get shot its real bad over here

 

[trophyhunter]

California is similar to my home State of New York.They make it very hard for Law Biding Citizen's to obtain CCW License's.

The loop holes they make jump through are impossible to understand.

In New York,Especially Erie County the wait time for obtaining your CCW License exceeds over 14 months.I'm not sure about California, but I know they are just as Strict.

Other States, such as PA only take 3-4 days to receive your CCW License. Before turning your application in,Training is your best friend.

The more, The Better.Researching Handgun Laws, understanding all the laws, The do's, and dont's can either be the reason you receive,or denied your CCW.

I Know it seems unjust, and or unfair but those are the facts. Knowing which loop holes to jump through will save you time, and aggravation.

Most of my friends who recently received their permits in New York,Were done quickly,because they have done
their homework prior to Submitting their Applications,and from what I've read California has the same process that of New York.

Understanding the local Sheriff's office has a big role in your Permit being Approved,or Denied as well.

As long as your background is clean with no arrest's as you have Stated, then you should be good to go. It will be just a waiting game.Good luck to you obtaining your CCW License.

 

[Twistedcowboy]

Your local sheriff

The ease with which you obtain a Calif CCW all depends on your local county sheriff. Its totally at his/her discretion. Some are more reasonable than others. I hope for your sake that yours is.

 

[Lowjiber]

My question to you guys is if there are ANY steps I can take to have a better chance, maybe taking ccw courses or training. I just dont want to spend the money if you guys believe it will do me no good..

hope to hear positive feedback, thank you

As others stated, it's very dependent upon the county sheriff, since California is a "May Issue" state. I lived in Santa Clara County and can assure you that the only way to get a permit there is to make some serious cash donations to the right people.

 

[Ghost Rider]

Im so glad I moved out of california. Everything there is over priced, over regulated, and over rated. You couldn`t pay me enough to ever move back there again.

When I moved to Idaho and applied for my carry permit, it cost me $58. dollars and I had it in three weeks, and its good for five years.

 

[rbaker5150]

There is a process that you must satisfy with the state and your local county sheriff's office. Call up your sheriff's office and ask what is needed. There is also the coolest website ever. It finds information for you on nearly any subject. Google

Sorry, couldn't resist.