16-Hour California CCW Initial Course Overview
This 16-hour initial CCW course meets the training requirements outlined in Senate Bill 2 and California Penal Code Section 26165. Instruction covers essential safety practices, laws, and practical skills.
Course Topics
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Firearms safety
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Safe firearm handling
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Shooting techniques
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Safe storage laws
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Legal methods for transporting and securing firearms in vehicles
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CCW prohibited locations
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Laws governing permissible firearm use
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Laws regarding lawful use of lethal force in self-defense
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Mental health awareness and available resources
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Additional applicable laws
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Stoppage (malfunction) clearing
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Situational awareness
Course Completion Requirements
Students must:
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Attend the full duration of the course
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Pass a written examination
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Pass a shooting qualification for each firearm to be listed on their CCW
Agencies That Accept This Training
The following issuing authorities recognize certificates from this course:
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Amador County Sheriff
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Contra Costa County Sheriff
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Ione Police Department
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Placer County Sheriff
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Sacramento County Sheriff
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San Joaquin County Sheriff
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Sutter County Sheriff
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West Sacramento Police Department
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Winters Police Department
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Woodland Police Department
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Yolo County Sheriff
Other agencies without an approved instructor list may accept this training. Contact your issuing authority to confirm acceptance.
What to Bring
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Valid driver license or state ID
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Firearm(s) to be qualified with*
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Minimum of 2 magazines or speed loaders per firearm
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Ammunition: at least 50 rounds per firearm
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Eye and ear protection
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Notebook and pen
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Safe, positive attitude and willingness to learn
*Ensure firearms are clean, lubricated, and in proper working condition before arriving. Frequent stoppages may prevent successful completion of the course of fire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What topics are covered in the CCW course?
The course covers firearms safety, handling, shooting techniques, safe storage, legal transportation, prohibited places, self-defense laws, situational awareness, and other applicable laws.
What are the requirements to pass the course?
Students must attend the full course, pass a written exam, and successfully complete a shooting qualification with each firearm to be listed on the CCW permit.
When should I take my initial 16-hour CCW course?
Unless instructed otherwise by your issuing agency, do not take the
course until after you have completed your interview with the issuing agency
and your live scan.
This could save you time and money in the event you are denied a CCW permit
or the application process is delayed, and the training certificate expires. By
law, the training must be completed within 6 months prior to the application.
