Getting your concealed carry permit in California starts with finding the right training course. With new laws making CCW permits more accessible across the state, thousands of Californians are looking for quality training that meets legal requirements without breaking the bank.
This guide covers the best CCW training courses available in California, comparing prices, formats, and what makes each program unique. Whether you’re in Los Angeles, the Bay Area, or anywhere in between, you’ll find a course that fits your needs.
Quick Answer: Top 3 CCW Training Courses in California
Top 3 California CCW Training Courses
Compare features, prices, and find the perfect training for your needs
USCCA
California Online CCW
National Carry Academy
For those in a hurry, here are our top picks:
- Best Overall: USCCA (U.S. Concealed Carry Association)
- Best Online Option: California Online CCW – Learn at your own pace
- Best Value: National Carry Academy – Automatic discounts for referrals
Keep reading for detailed reviews and to find the perfect course for your situation.
What You Need to Know About California CCW Training
Before diving into specific courses, let’s cover the basics. California requires:
- New Permits: 16 hours of training (12 hours classroom + 4 hours range time)
- Renewals: 8 hours of training
- Certification: Must be from a DOJ-certified instructor
- Validity: Most certificates are valid for 60-90 days
Think of it like getting your driver’s license – you need proper training before you can legally carry. The good news? You have multiple options for completing this training.
Best CCW Training Courses in California (Detailed Reviews)
1. USCCA (U.S. Concealed Carry Association) – Best Overall Choice
Why we recommend it: While USCCA isn’t exclusively a California training provider, they’ve built the most comprehensive concealed carry education platform in the nation. With over 820,000 members and partnerships with certified instructors throughout California, USCCA offers something unique: training plus legal protection if you ever need to use your firearm in self-defense.
What sets USCCA apart is their holistic approach. You’re not just getting CCW training—you’re joining a community with ongoing education, legal protection, and support. Their California-certified partner instructors deliver state-compliant training while giving you access to USCCA’s vast library of additional resources.
What you get:
- Access to network of California DOJ-certified instructors
- Comprehensive online training library (Protector Academy)
- Self-defense liability insurance included with membership
- 24/7 critical response team if you’re involved in a self-defense incident
- Concealed Carry Magazine subscription
- Ongoing legal updates and training resources
- Member discounts on gear and additional training
Course format: Online education plus in-person qualification through certified partners
Price range: Membership $29-$59/month (includes training access); Local instructor fees vary
California coverage: Certified partner instructors throughout the state
Student review: “USCCA connected me with a great local instructor for my California requirements, but the real value is everything else—the legal protection, ongoing training videos, and peace of mind. Worth every penny.” – Sarah K., Los Angeles
Best for: Those who want comprehensive protection beyond just basic training, value ongoing education, and appreciate having legal backup
Potential drawbacks: Monthly membership cost on top of local instructor fees, may be more than needed for those just wanting basic certification
2. California Online CCW – Best Online Option
Why we recommend it: Perfect for busy professionals or those in remote areas. Complete the classroom portion entirely online, then visit a local range for qualification.
What you get:
- Learn at your own pace over 90 days
- Course automatically saves progress
- Broken into digestible sections with quizzes
- Mobile-friendly platform
- Network of affiliated ranges for live-fire qualification
Course format: 16-hour online course + local range qualification
Price range: $150-$250
Coverage: Available statewide with affiliated ranges in most counties
Student review: “I work nights and couldn’t attend weekend classes. This let me learn when I had time. Very thorough and easy to follow.” – Maria G., Riverside
Best for: Busy schedules, remote locations, or anyone who prefers self-paced learning
3. National Carry Academy – Best Value
Why we recommend it: Automatic referral program means you save money when friends sign up using your name. Plus, comprehensive training that goes beyond minimum requirements.
What you get:
- Detailed legal training from certified instructors
- Automatic enrollment in discount program
- Email support after completion
- Access to ongoing training resources
Course format: Online with local range qualification options
Price range: $200-$300 (with referral discounts available)
Special feature: Every student’s email becomes a discount code for friends and family
Student review: “Great value. My wife and I both took the course and saved money using each other’s referral codes.” – David K., San Diego
Best for: Couples, groups of friends, or anyone who appreciates ongoing support
4. 559CCW – Best for Central Valley
Why we recommend it: Laser-focused on Central Valley counties with deep knowledge of local requirements and sheriff preferences.
What you get:
- County-specific training for Central Valley
- Both online and in-person options
- Free lunch during in-person sessions
- Automatic progress saving for online courses
- Expert instructors familiar with local sheriffs
Course format: 16-hour online or in-person hybrid
Price range: Starting at $35 for online modules
Counties served:
- Fresno County
- Madera County
- Merced County
- Kings County
- Tulare County
Student review: “They knew exactly what Fresno County wanted to see. No wasted time on stuff that doesn’t apply here.” – Robert T., Fresno
Best for: Central Valley residents who want local expertise
5. Northern Firearms Instruction (NFI) – Best Coverage
Why we recommend it: Authorized in over 50 California counties with a network of experienced, NRA-certified instructors.
What you get:
- Military and law enforcement instructors
- Multiple convenient locations
- Strict student-instructor ratios for personal attention
- Comprehensive training beyond minimum requirements
Course format: In-person at Sportsman’s Warehouse locations
Price range: $200-$300
Major locations:
- Redding
- Chico
- Fairfield
- Fresno
- Rancho Cordova
Student review: “My instructor was a Marine veteran. Excellent safety focus and practical tips you won’t get elsewhere.” – Jennifer L., Fairfield
Best for: Those who value military-style discipline and comprehensive training
6. Bay Area Tactical Group – Best for Bay Area
Why we recommend it: Specifically designed for Bay Area residents where CCW permits are newly accessible. Understands unique needs of new permit holders.
What you get:
- Small class sizes (maximum 8 students)
- Three-session format for better retention
- Multiple location options
- Personal coaching for qualification
- Flexible scheduling options
Course format: 2 range sessions + 1 Zoom lecture
Price range: $300-$400
Locations:
- San Leandro Gun Range
- Livermore
- Saratoga
Student review: “As a complete beginner, I appreciated the small class size and personal attention. Passed my qualification on the first try!” – Amy C., Oakland
Best for: Bay Area residents, especially beginners who want premium training
7. Riverside CCW Training – Best for Inland Empire
Why we recommend it: Voted “Best Educational Consultant” by the City of Riverside for multiple years. Deep expertise in Riverside and San Bernardino counties.
What you get:
- NRA and POST certified instructors
- DOJ certified for California
- Multi-state permit options
- Comprehensive legal education
- Small class sizes
Course format: Two-day weekend courses
Price range: $250-$350
Coverage:
- Riverside County (all cities)
- San Bernardino County
- Select Los Angeles County cities
Student review: “John’s ‘Anatomy of Fear’ presentation was eye-opening. This is more than just meeting requirements – it’s real preparation.” – Michael P., Temecula
Best for: Inland Empire residents who want award-winning local instruction
How to Choose the Right CCW Training Course
Consider Your Learning Style
Online Learning
- ✓ Flexible schedule
- ✓ Learn at your own pace
- ✓ Often more affordable
- ✗ Less hands-on guidance
- ✗ Requires self-discipline
In-Person Training
- ✓ Immediate feedback
- ✓ Hands-on practice
- ✓ Networking with other students
- ✗ Fixed schedule
- ✗ May require travel
Check Your County Requirements
While California has standard requirements, some counties have specific preferences:
- Los Angeles County: Now accepting applications – any DOJ-certified course works
- San Francisco Bay Area: New to shall-issue – comprehensive training recommended
- Orange County: Well-established process – standard 16-hour course
- Rural Counties: Often more streamlined – 8-hour courses common
Always verify current requirements with your issuing agency before enrolling.
Compare Total Costs
Your training investment includes:
- Course fees: $100-$400
- Ammunition for qualification: $50-$100
- Range fees (if separate): $20-$50
- Application fees: $150-$200
- Livescan fingerprinting: $50-$100
Total budget needed: $400-$850
What to Expect During Training
Classroom Portion (12 hours)
You’ll learn:
- California firearm laws and CCW regulations
- Legal use of force and self-defense laws
- Conflict avoidance and de-escalation
- Safe storage and handling
- Interacting with law enforcement
- Prohibited locations and restrictions
Range Portion (4 hours)
You’ll practice:
- Safe gun handling
- Proper shooting stance and grip
- Sight alignment and trigger control
- Drawing from concealment (some courses)
- Qualification course of fire
- Different shooting positions
Most students find the training enjoyable and less intimidating than expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to own a gun before taking training?
No, but you’ll need one for qualification. Some ranges offer rentals, but it’s best to qualify with the gun you’ll carry.
How hard is the qualification test?
Most students pass on their first try. You’ll typically need to hit a target at distances of 3-7 yards. The focus is on safety, not marksmanship competitions.
Can I take training before applying for my permit?
Yes! Many people complete training first. Just remember most certificates expire in 60-90 days.
What’s the difference between online and in-person training?
Online covers the same legal material but at your own pace. You’ll still need to qualify at a range in person. In-person classes offer more interaction but require schedule commitment.
Which counties are easiest for CCW permits?
Since recent legal changes, most California counties are now “shall issue,” meaning they must issue permits to qualified applicants. Urban counties may have longer wait times due to volume.
How long until I get my permit?
After training, expect:
- Application processing: 30-90 days
- Background check: 30-60 days
- Total time: 2-6 months (varies by county)
Tips for Training Success
Before Your Class
- Review basic gun safety – The four fundamental rules
- Get familiar with your firearm – Know how it operates
- Check requirements – Bring required documents
- Rest well – It’s a long day of important information
- Bring supplies – Note-taking materials, water, snacks
During Training
- Ask questions – No question is too basic
- Take notes – Especially on legal topics
- Network – Fellow students become range partners
- Focus on fundamentals – Accuracy comes with practice
- Relax – Instructors want you to succeed
After Certification
- Apply promptly – Don’t let your certificate expire
- Continue practicing – Skills are perishable
- Stay informed – Laws change regularly
- Consider advanced training – Many schools offer continuing education
California CCW Laws: What You Must Know
Where You Can Carry
With a valid CCW permit:
- Most public places
- Your vehicle
- Restaurants (unless posted)
- State and national parks
- Shopping centers
Where You Cannot Carry
Even with a permit, firearms are prohibited in:
- Schools and school zones
- Government buildings
- Airports (secured areas)
- Bars (where primary business is alcohol)
- Posted private property
Reciprocity
California doesn’t recognize other states’ permits, but your California CCW is valid in approximately 28 other states. Perfect for travelers!
Take the First Step Today
Getting your California CCW permit starts with quality training. The courses reviewed here represent the best options available, each with unique advantages:
- Need flexibility? Try California Online CCW
- Want local expertise? Choose a regional specialist
- Prefer big names? Go with Legal Heat
- Looking for value? Consider National Carry Academy
Remember, the best course is the one you’ll actually complete. Don’t let analysis paralysis stop you from exercising your rights. California’s CCW laws have never been more favorable for law-abiding citizens.
Choose a course that fits your schedule, budget, and learning style. Your safety—and your family’s safety—is worth the investment in proper training.
Check out our comprehensive California CCW Guide
Last updated: [Current Month]. California CCW requirements can change. Always verify current regulations with your local issuing agency. This article contains affiliate links which help support our free content.