If you own or plan to purchase a semiautomatic firearm in Colorado, there’s a new law you need to know about — and the deadline is closer than you think.
Colorado Senate Bill 25-003 takes effect August 1, 2026. After that date, you cannot legally purchase or transfer a Specified Semiautomatic Firearm (SSF) in Colorado without first completing a state-certified firearms safety course and obtaining an eligibility card from your county sheriff.
Here’s what that means for you.
What Is a Specified Semiautomatic Firearm (SSF)?
Under Senate Bill 25-003, an SSF is defined as:
- A semiautomatic rifle or shotgun with a detachable magazine
- A gas-operated semiautomatic handgun with a detachable magazine
If the firearm you’re planning to buy falls into one of those categories, this law applies to you. The Colorado Department of Revenue published draft guidance on specific models in May 2026, with final guidance expected July 1.
Do You Need the 4-Hour or 12-Hour Course?
Which course you need depends on one thing: your Hunter’s Education card.
4-Hour Basic SSF Course
For individuals who have completed a CPW-approved Hunter Education course. You must have your Hunter Education credentials verified in CPW’s records system. Out-of-state Hunter Education cards must be verified at a CPW office.
12-Hour Extended SSF Course
For everyone else. If you do not have a valid CPW Hunter Education credential on file, you are required to take the 12-hour extended course — no exceptions. Concealed carry permits, other firearms safety courses, and military training do not qualify as substitutes.
Not sure which applies to you? Makhaira Group offers free informational sessions — no commitment required.
What’s the Full Process?
Here’s the step-by-step:
- Submit an online application through the Colorado Firearms Safety System (application link available July 20, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. MST). You’ll need a government-issued photo ID and the results of a name-based background check from a third-party vendor.
- Get approved by your county sheriff. Once approved, your sheriff will issue a Firearms Eligibility Card.
- Complete your SSF course with a Sheriff-verified instructor. Makhaira Group instructors are Larimer County Sheriff-verified and CPW-certified.
- Purchase from a licensed FFL dealer. After course completion, the FFL will query the CPW Firearms Safety System to verify your training, then conduct a CBI InstaCheck before completing your purchase.
Why Timing Matters
The August 1 deadline is firm. If you’re planning to purchase a semiautomatic firearm after that date, you need to start this process now — not the week before. Between the sheriff application, background check, and course scheduling, waiting until late July is a real risk.
Makhaira Group’s SSF course dates will be posted no later than July 15, 2026. Seats are limited and expected to fill fast.
Where Can I Take the SSF Course in Northern Colorado?
Makhaira Group is offering both the 4-hour and 12-hour SSF courses at Liberty Firearms Institute, 4990 Ronald Reagan Blvd, Johnstown, CO 80534 — serving gun owners across Fort Collins, Greeley, Loveland, Longmont, Windsor, Wellington, Denver, Aurora, Boulder, and surrounding areas.
Our instructors are Larimer County Sheriff-verified and CPW-approved, so your course completion will be entered directly into the CPW Firearms Safety database.
View SSF Course Details & Register →
Have questions before you sign up? Join one of our free informational sessions in July — no cost, no commitment, just answers.