I have thought long and hard about just this topic. My wife and I are taking classes in a week and applying for our CCP’s. In today’s society you just never know.

Jerry

I received mine three months ago. In California, it was a long and difficult process.
Here is the list.

30 page application
2 hour interview with Sheriff’s department
FBI Background check
Live scan fingerprinting
5 years of proof of residence including multiple utilities bills with name and address
2 day gun safety training class
Pass a written test 40 questions
Range test. 18 total rounds (6 close range, 6 medium, 6 long range) Target 80% hits for a pass for each gun that you plan to carry. Max 3 pistols.
Driver license
Passport and extra passport photo
Birth Certificate
5 character reference letters (none from family or business associates)
Business license
Proof of business requirements (deposit slips, financials, or special needs)
Letter from your employer regarding knowledge of the application. (I am self employed but I needed letters from my partners)
$480 in cost for fees for all of the above
Final review goes to the State of CA for sign off and approval.
3-4 months of processing time

Do you think a criminal cares about any of things requirements?

I am not yet sure about the details of applying for the CCW permit, but it appears to be significantly less than in CA.
The safety class is eight hours.
I believe there is the same competency requirements for shooting the gun (80% of 6 short range, 6 medium range and 6 long range shots with the weapon – up to three weapons).
The applicatiuon is filled out and submitted at a drivers license station.
The fee is $115 – renewal every four years for $50.
Fingerprinting.
License issued or denied within 90 days.

DP,

Congrats on sticking with it. Most people don’t because it is so time consuming and costly. There was an off-duty officer who shot and killed an irate customer at a Verison cell phone store here in CNY a few years back. The male customer shot at the manager with a rifle while the officer was shopping for a phone with his girlfriend. What would have happened if that officer did not carry his weapon? Good Luck and be safe!! YOU NEVER KNOW

Stickman,
once you and your wife have completed everything you will be very happy you stuck with it. If you do decide to carry (a lot) do your research and talk to people who own certain hand guns and what their thoughts are. Also what has better stopping power, 9mm compared to a .40, or .45cal ect. Everyone has a preference. Good luck, contact me if you have any questions.

Flat Foot