Simply put…the process is not simple. There are many qualifications you must meet in order to get a CCW license in California. Requirements will vary depending on your county/city. Please contact your local county Sheriff’s office for more specific detailed information.

In addition to meeting meeting federal law requirements, you must:

1. Be at least 18 years of age (sometimes at least 21 years of age, depending on the issuing county or city).

2. Be of good moral character. 

3. Have good cause for getting a license. 

4. Be a resident of the county for at least 90 days or have proof of employment in the county/State. 

5. Not have been convicted of a felony or certain types of misdemeanors, including being convicted of domestic violence.

6. Not be addicted to drugs.

7. Complete an approved firearms training course that is typically at least 8 hours long, involving in-person training and range time or provide proof of exemption pursuant to California Penal Code section 31700. 

8. a) Not have been hospitalized more than once in a year for a mental health diagnosis. b) Not have been diagnosed as mentally ill. (lifetime prohibition)

9. Not be subject to a temporary restraining order or have been the subject of a protective order