What to Expect from Concealed Carry Training near Me: A Guide

The first rule of gun safety is to learn how to use your weapon. Doing so will protect yourself and everyone around you. You can also get in trouble if you have a gun in your car before getting the proper training and licensing.

The only way to get the paperwork you need is by seeking out concealed carry training near me. Taking classes will cost you a small fee, but when you’re done, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to use your gun safely.

Want to find out what you can expect out of your lessons? Check out this guide to learn everything you need to know about concealed carry training.

Things You’ll Learn

When you go to gun training, you’ll learn the ins and outs of firearm safety. That includes how to load and shoot the gun and general storage tips.

The instructor will teach you when it’s necessary to use your gun to protect yourself and when you should hold off. You’ll go out to the firing range and practice with aiming and shooting and learn about all the laws in your state involving guns.

What Should You Bring With You?

You’ll be allowed to bring your own ear and eye protection to the range with you. Firing off a gun can be pretty loud. To save yourself from damage, invest in a high-quality pair of fitted earplugs or electronic ear muffs.

The cheap foam inserts aren’t going to do much for you. As far as eye protection goes, a pair of sturdy goggles that wrap around your entire eye will do the trick.

The general rule of thumb is to wear comfortable clothes. A shirt with sleeves and a pair of closed-toed shoes are a must.

Your classes might get a little long. In some cases, you’ll spend an entire afternoon outside. It’s not something you want to do without wearing sunscreen.

There’s also the chance that you’ll get hungry, so don’t forget to pack some snacks, and having water will keep you hydrated and help you combat the heat.

Will You Need to Bring a Firearm With You?

The answer here is no. Buying a gun is not a requirement for concealed carry training. You can take most of the knowledge part of the course online.

The only time you’ll need a gun is if your state requires you to have some experience in the range. Even then, you might not need a handgun. Always ask your instructor before you bring yours to class with you.

Keep in mind that your instructor will check your firearm at the door. They will expect you to have it unloaded. Speaking of ammunition, don’t bring your own to the range.

The reason being is that the dummy rounds you use in class look a lot like your regular ammo. That’s not something you want to mix up.

What’s the Duration of the Classes?

How long your classes last all depends on the level of instruction. If you’re only doing a general online course, you can get through all the materials in a few hours. That doesn’t include all the testing.

If you’re going to a range for actual hands-on training, your classes will go on for a bit longer, and you’ll have to take a test.

How Much Do Classes Cost?

When registering for online classes, you’ll have to pay a fee of 60 dollars (give or take). You might pay a bit more to go to the range.

You may run into websites that advertise free courses, but at the end of the day, they’re not actually free. Your certificate of completion will be locked behind a paywall.

Class Etiquette Rules to Live By

When you’re in class, your instructor will often shout out commands. You’ll want to listen to every one of them for the safety of yourself and everyone around you.

Don’t pick up or do anything with your firearm until you’re told to do so. If there’s something wrong with your gun, call for a cease-fire and wait for your instructor to walk over to you.

Don’t leave your firearm unattended or point it anywhere but toward the target

The Tests

To get your certification, you’ll have to take a written test. It will be on everything you learned in class, and in some cases, it will be open book.

Certain states will require you to take a live-fire exam before you can get your license. It will test your ability to safely shoot and load your firearm.

How Long Will Your Concealed Carry Certificate Last?

Your concealed carry certificate won’t stick with you forever. You’ll have a year to turn in your application to receive your concealed carry permit. After that, it will expire and you’ll have to start over.

As far as your permit goes, that won’t expire for two years (sometimes longer). It sort of varies depending on what state you live in. If you want to read more about firearm safety and testing, you can visit Concealed Coalition.

Everything to Expect Out of Concealed Carry Training Near Me

You won’t be able to carry your firearm in your car or on your person until you figure out how to use it. The best way to learn is by seeking out concealed carry training near me.

It won’t take too long to complete the courses, it’s not that expensive, and it’s required to get your carry permit. Get started with your training today.

For more gun owner tips to live by, feel free to explore the rest of our blog.