Step-by-Step: How to Get a CCW Permit in Orange County

Obtaining a Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permit in Orange County might seem challenging at first, but with the right information and preparation, you can confidently complete the application. This comprehensive guide will cover all the necessary steps and document requirements, as well as highlight recent legislative changes that may impact your CCW application.

What are the Current Document Requirements for a CCW Permit in Orange County?

Before you begin the application process for a CCW permit, make sure that you have all the required documents. Here is a comprehensive list of what you will need:

1. Valid California Driver’s License or California ID Card: An ID card is acceptable only if you do not possess a driver's license from another state.
2. One Color Photo of Yourself: This should be a recent photo (taken within the last six months), similar to a passport photo, with a plain white or well-lit background. No hats or glasses.
3. Proof of Residency: You will need two documents showing your current address in Orange County, dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include:
   • Orange County voter registration
   • Orange County property tax bill
   • Rental or lease agreement with signatures from both the landlord and tenant
   • Deed or title to residential real property
   • Mortgage or credit card statement
   • Utility bills (gas, water, electricity, solar, cable, internet, or cellular phone)
4. If any of these documents are in your spouse's name, include proof of marriage or a legal domestic partnership.
5. DD-214/Orders (Military Only): If you are a current or former member of the military, provide your DD-214 or orders.
6. Certificate of Naturalization, Green Card, and/or Passport: This is required if you were born outside the United States.

Additional documents may be requested at the discretion of the application processor. Failure to upload the required documents at the time of submission may result in the application being withdrawn.

Steps to Obtain a CCW in Orange County

Now that you have gathered the necessary documents, here are the steps to obtain a CCW permit in Orange County:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

According to California Penal Code sections 26150 and 26155, the licensing authority shall issue a CCW permit to applicants who:

• Are not disqualified from receiving a license under Penal Code 26202.
• Meet residential requirements.
• Have completed a course of training.
• Are at least 21 years old.
• Are the recorded owner of the firearm for which the license will be issued.

Step 2: Complete the Application

You must fill out a statewide standard application form prescribed by the Attorney General. This form will ask for detailed information about you, your background, and your reasons for requesting a CCW permit.

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

Submit all the documents listed in the document requirements section. Be sure to scan and upload these documents as part of your online application.

Step 4: Undergo Background Checks and Fingerprinting

All applicants will be fingerprinted, and state and federal records will be checked to make sure that they are eligible to possess firearms. This is a critical step to confirm that you meet all legal requirements.

Step 5: Provide Character References

You will need to provide the names and contact information of three persons willing to serve as references. One of the three must be a person described in Penal Code section 273.5, subdivision (b), and at least one must be your cohabitant, if applicable.

Step 6: Complete the Required Training

New applicants must complete a 16-hour firearms training course prior to issuance. Renewal applicants must complete an 8-hour course. Check that each firearm listed on your CCW license is registered to you and approved by the CCW Licensing Unit.

Step 7: Submit the Application and Await Approval

Once you have completed all steps and gathered all required documents, submit your application. The determination to issue the license is at the discretion of the licensing authority.

How Will the Implementation of SB2 Affect the CCW Process?

Senate Bill 2 (SB2) has introduced significant changes to the CCW process in California, though some provisions have been temporarily blocked by a federal judge. Here are key aspects of SB2 that could impact your CCW permit:

• Minimum Age and Training: SB2 requires CCW applicants to be at least 21 years old and to complete mandatory firearms training.
• Sensitive Places: SB2 designates 26 "sensitive places" where even CCW permit holders cannot carry firearms. These include hospitals, public transportation, bars and nightclubs, playgrounds, parks, casinos, stadiums, libraries, amusement parks, zoos, places of worship, and banks.
• Legal Challenges: Some provisions of SB2 have been challenged in court, with a federal judge recently blocking enforcement of the law’s restrictions on carrying firearms in many public places. The case is currently under appeal, so further changes could occur.

SB2’s implementation aims to balance the right to carry a concealed weapon with public safety concerns, but its provisions and legal battles are ongoing and subject to change.

Conclusion: Ready to Get Started?

Obtaining a CCW permit in Orange County requires diligence and preparation, but following these steps will help streamline the process. At United Defense Tactical, we offer comprehensive CCW training courses to help you meet all requirements and are well-prepared to carry a concealed weapon safely and responsibly.

Start your application process today and let us help you obtain your CCW permit. For more information and to enroll in our training courses, visit our website or contact us directly. Your safety and preparedness are our top priorities.