What does one have to do to earn a license to carry a concealed weapon?

Question

I've never owned any sort of gun and never even fired a gun, but I am considering to buy one for my safety and for the safety of people around me. So, how do you buy a gun? Do you have to pass any sort of test? What kind of documents do I need? And what steps do I need to make to be able to carry a concealed handgun in my pocket wherever I go?

I guess, I need to learn how to shoot. Is there anything else I need to do or learn?

Niet de duivel, your idea is nice, but it doesn't work. You can't make a law saying that guns are outlawed and
expect criminals to comply. Criminals will carry guns whether we like it or not. Therefore, your idea doesn't punish criminals. It rewards them! Remember, police officers aren't omnipresent!

Answer 1

It is wise that you have chosen to defend yourself and your family. The police cannot be everywhere

We shouldn't have to ask the gov't for "permission" to excercise those rights already guarenteed to us by the Founding Fathers.

But if you are willing to put up with this, you can obtain a concealed permit usually through your state police organization. Here is a good resource:

Answer 2

In Texas where parents regularly teach children how to handle handguns and rifles, a person needs to take a state-approved hand-gun safety course and then apply for a Concealed Hand Gun license from the state. The application , including finger printing, will go through a criminal record check and takes about 8 weeks.

Texas in general followed the "Any law abiding citizen have the right to own fire arm philosophy," so you can (as a legal resident of Texas and without criminal record) buy a hand gun readily. You need a government issued ID and, of course, the money.

While I do have a concealed handgun license and regularly go to the shooting range, I do not have any type of weapon in my house, except knifes, tennis rackets, and medium-sized throw able objects.

Answer 3

No "test" is required to purchase a gun other than you have to have no Felony or Domestic Abuse convictions on your record. A lot of the web sited that others have listed are a very good start. Depending on where you live, check with some shooting/pistol clubs in your area.

A good source of advice and education would be at a Gun Shop with an indoor pistol range. Clubs and classes frequently meet there and more reputable dealers can be very helpful in choosing a weapon that suits your needs and not their sales needs. You can also try out various weapons to see which suits your needs best.

Just remember that there is an awesome liability and responsibility that comes with carrying a weapon for protection. It wouldn't hurt to check with your Insurance carrier to know the limitations of any liability insurance policies you may have. Good Luck!

Niet, you're Canadian, what else would we expect that you'd think. Keep your Socialism at the border, please!

Answer 4

Your question has about 100 different answers, since some states allow the counties to decide. The answer ranges from nothing, (Vermont and Alaska) to make big contributions to powerful politicians or do work for those politicians, (New York City and various California Counties). of course that is for the 48 states which have Concealed Carry, (Wisconsin and Illinois have outlawed carrying firearms concealed.)

NOTE to niet de duivel:

Why do you believe the elite have a greater right to life than you do?

Answer 5

Find a friend with a pistol an go to the range an get a feel for firing a pistol.It's quit simple.Then contact a gun shop an see who holds classes an a tests. You will need or they can supply a fire arm for you to fire, if you are taking 1 make it a small caliber like a <22 >32< 38>.as they sometimes require 30 rounds at a target.them after you go an get finger printed at the local police dept. send it away with money for a background check.If you have a record don't bother. .Then fire a range of weapons find 1 that suits your need myself i like a 45 cal 3" barrel auto.Small but has a big punch.Have fun. Safety first.

Answer 6

If you conceal it properly, you don't need a license!

No seriously, in my country you just need a firearms license, and then you MUST conceal it in public. It is an offence to show off a weapon in public.

Answer 7

As far as ccw, one of the better sites is www.packing.org.

It varies WIDELY from state to state and county to county. For instance, it is nearly impossible to obtain a ccw in some counties in CA (the more liberal/coastal areas). Yet, nearly anyone can get a ccw in the more rural mountainous counties. CA is a "may issue" state.

Some states are "shall issue".... if you're not otherwise disqualified from getting a ccw, they HAVE to issue you one. Usually, they require some sort of training/safety course. Your DD-214 from the military or NRA certificates would work if you have one.

Since you haven't shot, your best bet would be to contact the NRA or look for a local range for training.

Good luck!

Calif Deputy

Answer 8

Apply for one. If you have no criminal history and are of legal age you can apply for a concealed handgun license. I would strongly encourage you to take classes on gun safety and take classes in target practice. Many of these are run by former law enforecement officers and are used by many police departments....its always good to have aquaintences in the law.

Answer 9

It varies between states and municipalities. Check with your local authorities. Here in NY State, local Town Clerks can provide you with an application. Nominal fee, background check, may take 6-8 weeks.

Carrying it in your pocket will wear out the pocket and physically cause pain. Plan on getting a holster (belt, shoulder, ankle).
Take lessons to learn the gun, and learn how to clean it well and maintain it.

Answer 10

You need picturer I.D. and you have to pass a felony check. Then
WAHLAW you have conceled weapons permit.