As of July 1, 2025, Colorado is changing how you get or renew a concealed handgun permit. The rules aren’t just tweaks—they’re a whole new set of requirements. If you don’t keep up, you could miss deadlines or fail your training. Here’s what you need to know to stay ahead.
What Bill 24‑1174 Changes
Colorado is tightening the rules for concealed handgun permits under Bill 24-1174. If you’re applying for a new permit, you must complete an in-person training course within one year before submitting your application. For renewals, the window shrinks to six months—no exceptions.
The training itself also gets stricter. New applicants must take an eight-hour course, and those applying for renewals must take a two-hour refresher. Both demand solid performance, including at least 80% on the written test and 70% accuracy on live-fire exercises.
Another big change: instructors need official county verification. You can only take your class from someone listed on your local sheriff’s website. Online courses won’t cut it anymore. These rules ensure everyone meets a consistent standard and that sheriffs can trust the training behind every permit.
If you don’t meet these new requirements, expect delays or denials. Get ahead of the process by contacting Makhaira Group to schedule your concealed handgun training or renewal.
Who Can Skip the Training?
Some people don’t have to take the training at all. That includes current Colorado peace officers, active-duty military, and anyone honorably discharged within the last 10 years. Competitive shooters and verified instructors also get a pass. For renewals, the same exemptions apply.
But keep in mind—if you’ve been convicted of certain misdemeanors within the past five years, the law blocks your permit approval altogether.
Why These Changes Matter for You
These changes matter because they affect how smoothly your permit process goes. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Plan ahead: You have to complete training within tight timeframes. Don’t wait until the last minute to sign up.
- Check your instructor: Only county-verified instructors count. Double-check before you register to avoid wasted time.
- Stay sharp: Your written and live-fire test scores must meet minimum standards. Prepare accordingly.
- Expect scrutiny: Sheriff offices will enforce these rules strictly. Missing paperwork or expired training means delays—sometimes lasting months.
How Makhaira Group Can Help
Here’s how Makhaira Group makes navigating the new rules easy:
- We offer in-person concealed carry training courses designed to meet or exceed Bill 24‑1174 requirements—8-hour initial training and 2-hour refreshers.
- All our instructors hold official verification from Colorado county sheriffs and appear on state-approved registries.
- Our expert coaching helps you hit the scores you need—80% or higher on the written test, and at least 70% accuracy on live-fire drills.
- Want to sharpen your skills beyond the basics? We offer optional firearm and tactical training to boost your confidence and ability.
Colorado’s new concealed handgun permit rules raise the bar—and missing a detail could cost you time or your permit altogether. Don’t risk delays or frustration by going it alone. Reach out today, get the expert guidance you need, and walk into your permit appointment confident and prepared.