Colorado Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

View Updates: 2022-04-04

Carry allowed with my Colorado permit?

Yes

Yes, With Restrictions

Yes, Selected State(s)

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638k

Permits Issued

STATES HONORED

RECIPROCATING STATES

5.8M

STATE POPULATION

MINIMUM AGE TO CC

ATTORNEYS IN USCCA NETWORK

11%

PERMIT PERCENTAGE

YEARS PERMIT VALID

USCCA CERTIFIED INSTRUCTORS

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Summary of Colorado Gun Laws

Colorado is a shall-issue state where concealed carry permits are issued to county residents by local sheriff’s offices. No purchase permits or firearms registration are required for handguns. For private-party transfers of firearms, the seller must request that a licensed dealer perform a background check of the buyer and must get approval of the transfer from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.

Open carry is legal in Colorado for any person who is at least 18 years old and who can legally possess a firearm, except in Denver county and other posted areas. Local governments may enact regulations prohibiting open carrying of firearms in a building or specific area within the local government’s jurisdiction, as long as signs are posted to that effect.

Concealed carry is legal in Colorado for residents with a Colorado permit to carry a concealed weapon (CCW) and non-residents with a CCW permit from a state that Colorado honors. CCW permits can be issued to any resident at least 21 years old and not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. Concealed carry permits require a firearms training course that has been state-approved. Colorado doesn’t issue non-resident permits with the exception of members of the military permanently stationed in Colorado and their immediate family members that live in the state. In terms of reciprocity, Colorado will only honor resident CCW licenses from states with which it has a reciprocity agreement.

Self-Defense

Colorado is a Castle Doctrine state. It grants its citizens the “right to expect absolute safety within their own homes.” There is no duty to retreat, and the law applies at a person’s residence or in another dwelling. Although the state does not have an express stand your ground law, the Colorado Supreme Court has affirmed Colorado does not include a duty to retreat and “permits non-aggressors to stand their ground when acting in self-defense.”

Use of Physical Force in Defense of Property
A person is justified in using reasonable and appropriate physical force upon another person when and to the extent that he or she reasonably believes it necessary to prevent an attempt to commit theft, criminal mischief or criminal tampering involving property, but he may use deadly physical force under these circumstances only in defense of himself or another.

Use of Physical Force in Defense of a Person
A person is justified in using degree of force which he reasonably believes to be necessary in order to defend the person or a third person from the use or imminent use of unlawful physical force and he may use a degree of force which he reasonably believes to be necessary for that purpose.

Use of Deadly Physical Force Against an Intruder
Any occupant of a dwelling is justified in using any degree of physical force, including deadly physical force, when the occupant has a reasonable belief someone:

Has unlawfully entered the occupant’s dwelling and is committing a crime in the dwelling in addition to the uninvited entry;
Is committing or intends to commit a crime against a person or property in addition to the uninvited entry; and
When the occupant reasonably believes that such other person might use any physical force — no matter how slight — against any occupant.

Use of Physical Force in Defense of Premises
A person in possession or control of any building, realty or other premises, or a person who is licensed or privileged to be there, is justified in using reasonable and appropriate physical force when and to the extent that it is reasonably necessary to prevent or terminate what he believes to be the commission or attempted commission of an unlawful trespass by the other person in or upon the building, realty or premises. However, he or she may use deadly force only in defense of himself or another, or when he reasonably believes it necessary to prevent what he reasonably believes to be an attempt by the trespasser to commit first degree arson.

Civil and Criminal Immunity
Any occupant of a dwelling using justified physical force, including deadly physical force, in accordance with the provisions of the law shall be immune from criminal prosecution for the use of such force as well as any civil liability for injuries or death resulting from the use of such force.

[Colo. Rev. Stat. §§ 18-1-704, 18-1-704.5, 18-1-705 & 18-1-706]

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Colorado Gun Laws at a Glance

Carry Basics

Constitutional Carry? Does Colorado allow constitutional carry?	No.
Open Carry Permitted? Is open carry permitted in Colorado?	Per state law, open carry is allowed without a permit for any person who is at least 18 years old and who can legally possess a firearm. However, municipalities such as Denver County, may prohibit the open carry of a firearm in buildings or specific areas within the local government's jurisdiction. Any local governments that have prohibited areas must post signs at the public entrances to the building or specific area informing persons that the open carrying of firearms is prohibited. [Colo. Rev. Stat. § 29-11.7-104]
Gun Permit Licensure? If Colorado requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued?	Shall issue.
Minimum Age for Concealed Carry? What is the minimum age in Colorado to get a concealed carry permit?	21.
Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Colorado with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)?	Handguns only. [Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-204(2)(a)]
Tasers or Stun Guns? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Colorado?	Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit.
Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Colorado?	Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Colorado.
MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does Colorado have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?	No more than 15 rounds It is illegal to sell, transfer or possess a "high capacity" magazine (defined as >15 rounds for firearms other than shotguns), unless you owned the large-capacity magazine on July 1, 2013 and maintained continuous possession of the large-capacity magazine. Large-capacity magazines capable of operating only with .22 caliber rimfire ammunition and tubular magazines that are contained in lever-action firearms are exempt. The City of Denver has Sec. 38-130, which mirrors the state law limit of >15 rounds. The City of Vail has Ordinance 6-3H-9, that pre-dates and is more lenient than State law. It's illegal to possess a magazine which will hold or may be modified to hold twenty one or more rounds there. As of December 12, 2021, the City of Boulder's appeal of the lower court decision striking Boulder’s Ordinance 5-8-2 which made any ammunition feeding device with the capacity to accept more than 10 rounds illegal was dismissed with prejudice by the court. Due to the decision, Boulder cannot attempt to relitigate this case in the future. Therefore, the Colorado state limit of no more than 15 rounds applies. [Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-302]
AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does Colorado have ammunition restrictions?	There are no state laws. However, the City of Aurora prohibits the sale or possession of Teflon-coated or treated ammunition.

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Carry Locations

Carry in Vehicle? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Colorado?	Yes, without a permit. [Colo. Rev. Stat. §§ 18-12-105(2)(b) and 18-12-204(3)(a)]
Carry at Roadside Rest Areas? Can you carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Colorado?	Yes, with a Colorado permit to carry a concealed weapon or a permit issued by a state that Colorado honors.
Carry in State/National Parks, State/National Forests and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)? Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests and Wildlife Management Areas in Colorado?	Yes with a Colorado permit to carry a concealed weapon or a permit issued by a state that Colorado honors. See the National Parks webpage for links to each Park in Colorado. [Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-214]
Carry in Bars/Restaurants That Serve Alcohol? Can you carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Colorado?	Yes, with a Colorado permit to carry a concealed weapon or a permit issued by a state that Colorado honors, unless posted, and provided you are not under the influence. [Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-106(1)(d)]
Carry/Possess at a hotel? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in Colorado?	Colorado statutes don't specifically address firearms at hotels. Please note that each hotel develops their own policies and the individual hotel should be contacted to inquire about it's concealed carry policy. See the Handguns at Hotels page for additional information.
Store in a Vehicle in an Employee Parking Lot? Does Colorado have laws relating to storing firearms in private vehicles in an employee parking lot?	Not addressed in Colorado state law, although employers may have a policy.

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Key State Laws

Duty to Inform Officer You're Carrying? Do you have a duty to notify a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Colorado?	No. There is no duty to inform a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Colorado. [Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-204(2)(a)]
DRIVER'S LICENSE LINKED TO CCW PERMIT? Is my Colorado driver’s license linked to my Colorado CCW permit?	No. Your Colorado driver’s license is not linked to your Colorado CCW permit. Therefore, a law enforcement officer (LEO) will not be notified that you are a concealed carry permit holder immediately when they run your driver’s license. However, LEOs may have access to other databases where they can obtain this information.
"No Weapons Allowed" Signs Enforced? Are "No Weapons Allowed" signs enforced in Colorado? If yes, violating the sign would be considered to be a crime. If no, violating the sign would not be considered a criminal offense.	No.
Preemption? Does Colorado have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e. Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?	The state of Colorado has partial preemption. Based on the passage of SB 256, local governments may prohibit the open carry or concealed carry of a firearm in a building or specific area within the local government’s jurisdiction. A local government may also enact an ordinance, regulation or other law that prohibits the sale, purchase, transfer or possession of a firearm, ammunition firearm component that a person may lawfully sell, purchase or possess that is more restrictive than state or Federal a law. Signs must be posted at all public entrances. A local government may not restrict a person’s ability to travel with a weapon in a private automobile or other private means of conveyance. [Colo. Rev. Stat. §§ 29-11.7-103 & 18-12-105.6(2)(a)]
Red Flag Law? Does Colorado have a red flag law?	Yes. Colorado has a red flag law. It allows Law Enforcement or a family member to petition the Court to temporarily remove guns and ammunition from people who have been deemed by a judge to pose a danger to themselves or others for up to a year. (future Colo. Rev. Stat. § 13-14.5-103) [House Bill 19-1177]
Brandishing? Does Colorado state law define brandishing?	No definition of brandishing was found in Colorado law. However, a person commits disorderly conduct if he or she intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly discharges a firearm in a public place except when engaged in lawful target practice; or displays a deadly weapon, displays any article used or fashioned to cause a person to believe it is a deadly weapon, or represents verbally or otherwise that he or she is armed with a deadly weapon in a public place in an alarming manner. [Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-9-106] A person commits the crime of menacing if, by any threat or physical action, he or she knowingly places or attempts to place another person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury. [Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-3-206]
Carry While Using Alcohol or Controlled Substances? Does Colorado have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or controlled substances?	Not while under the influence. “Controlled substance” means a drug, substance, or immediate precursor included in schedules I through V of part 2 of § 18-18-102, including cocaine, marijuana, marijuana concentrate, cathinones, any synthetic cannabinoid, and salvia divinorum. [Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-106(1)(d)] As a responsibly armed American, regardless of the laws in your state, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgement, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.
NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does Colorado issue concealed carry permits to non-residents?	Yes, but only for members of the military permanently stationed in Colorado and their immediate families.
PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? Does Colorado allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?	No. [Colo. Rev. Stat.§ 18-12-206(3) and 18-2-208(2)]

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Handgun Purchase & Possession

Purchase Permits? Is a permit required to purchase a handgun in Colorado?	No.
Background Checks for Private Gun Sales? Exceptions? Are background checks required for private gun sales in Colorado? Are there exceptions?	Yes. Colorado requires a background check on nearly all transfers, requiring both private gun sellers and federally licensed dealers to initiate a background check when transferring a firearm. With few exceptions, any individual seeking to transfer possession of a firearm must have a background check conducted on the prospective transferee by a licensed gun dealer and must obtain approval of the transfer from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) following the background check request. There are exemptions which include sales or transfers to family, transfers to an estate or trust upon the owner’s death or temporary transfers for self-defense where the unlicensed transferee reasonably believes that possession of the firearm is necessary to prevent imminent death or serious bodily injury. [Colo. Rev. Stat. 18-12-112]
Colorado Permit Exempts from Background Check? Does my current Colorado concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?	No.
Waiting Period? Is there a waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Colorado?	No.
Handgun Registration? Handgun Registration?	No.
Minimum Age to Possess and Transport? What is the minimum age to possess and transport a handgun in Colorado?	18 years old, although the following exceptions apply to those under the age of 18 while: In attendance at a hunter's safety course or a firearms safety course; Engaging in legal target shooting; Engaging in certain organized firearm competitions or performances; Hunting or trapping with a valid state hunting license; Traveling with an unloaded handgun to or from these activities; While on real property under the control of the person's parent, legal guardian or grandparent and with permission of their parent or legal guardian; or When at the person’s residence, with the permission of the person’s parent or legal guardian, for the purpose of lawful self-defense. [Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-108.5] Any person who intentionally, knowingly or recklessly provides a handgun with or without payment to any person under the age of 18, or any person who knows of such juvenile's conduct in violation of this law and fails to make reasonable efforts to prevent the violation commits the crime of unlawfully providing a handgun to a juvenile or permitting a juvenile to possess a handgun. [Colo. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-108.7]
Possess a handgun on my private property without a permit? Can I possess/carry a handgun in my home without a permit?	Yes. A permit is not required for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm to carry a handgun in his or her own dwelling or place of business or on property owned or under his or her control at the time of the act of carrying. [Colo. Rev. Stat. 18-12-105(2)(a)]

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Colorado Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States

Which states' permits does Colorado honor?

Alabama (at least 21 years old)

Alaska

Arizona (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Arkansas (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Delaware (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Florida (handguns only, at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Georgia (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Idaho (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Indiana (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Iowa (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Kansas (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Kentucky (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Louisiana (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Mississippi (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Missouri (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Montana (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Nebraska (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

New Hampshire (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

New Mexico (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

North Carolina (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

North Dakota (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Ohio (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Oklahoma (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Pennsylvania (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

South Dakota (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Tennessee (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Texas (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Utah (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Virginia (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

West Virginia (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Wisconsin (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

Wyoming (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)

In accordance with Colorado law (C.R.S. 18-12-213) the State of Colorado will recognize a valid concealed carry permit issued by another state only if all of the following criteria are met:

The issuing state recognizes/honors a Colorado permit (CHP).
The permit holder is a resident of the issuing state.
The permit holder is in possession of a matching state issued driver’s license or a State ID showing that they are a resident of that state.
The permit holder is 21 years of age or older.
The permit holder is in possession of a valid permit.

Colorado does not recognize permits issued in the District of Columbia.

Other States' Reciprocity With Colorado

Which states honor permits from Colorado?

Alabama

Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Delaware

Georgia

Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Louisiana

Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Nebraska

New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

New Mexico

North Carolina

North Dakota

Ohio

South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)

Virginia

Wisconsin

Note: Firearms must be carried in accordance with the laws of the state you are visiting. Be sure to check the laws of the other state before traveling there with your firearms.

States That Have Restricted Reciprocity with Colorado

Colorado offers resident and non-resident (military permanently stationed in Colorado and their immediate families) permits. If indicated with “Resident only” below, that state only honors Colorado resident permits (and not those issued to non-residents).

Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Florida (resident permits only)

Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Michigan (resident permits only)

Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)

Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Pennsylvania (resident permits only)

Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Utah (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)

Permitless Carry States

Alaska PC-21

Arizona PC-21

Arkansas PC-18

Idaho PC-18

Indiana PC-18

Iowa PC-21

Kansas PC-21

Kentucky PC-21

Maine (permits recognized; see Maine Reciprocity section for details or PC-21)

Mississippi PC-18

MissouriPC-19

MontanaPC-18

New HampshirePC-18

North DakotaPC-18 for residents only

Oklahoma PC-21

South DakotaPC-18

TennesseePC-21

TexasPC-21

UtahPC-21

VermontPC-18

West Virginia PC-21

Wyoming PC-21

*PC-18 = permitless carry if at least 18 years old

*PC-21 = permitless carry if at least 21 years old

Permitless carry includes constitutional carry states as well as states where an individual must meet certain qualifications, e.g., no DUIs in the last 10 years, in order to legally carry (Tennessee). Each state determines the requirements and any limitations on the carry of firearms. Check each state’s page for more information and any restrictions that may apply.

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Colorado Concealed Carry Permit Information

Requirements:	*An applicant must:* Be at least 21 years of age; Be a legal resident of Colorado; Not have been convicted of perjury; Not chronically and habitually use alcoholic beverages; Not be an unlawful user of or addicted to a controlled substance; Not be subject to a protection order; Demonstrate competence with a handgun; and Meet federal law requirements. *Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of Colorado.
Fees:	Initial Permit $52 (The sheriff can charge an additional fee up to $100) Permit Renewal may vary from $50 to $63
Valid For:	5 years
Processing Time:	90 days
Application:	CHP Information Packet City of Denver Permit Info and application page Link to application
Non-Resident Concealed Carry Permits:	Yes, but only for members of the military permanently stationed in Colorado and their immediate family members that live in the state. The process is the same as for residents.
Name/Address Changes:	Within 30 days after a permittee changes the address specified on his or her permit or 3 business days after his or her permit is lost, stolen or destroyed, the permittee shall notify the issuing Sheriff of the change of address or permit loss, theft or destruction using the address change/permit lost or destroyed form. Failure to notify the Sheriff is a Class 1 Petty Offense.
Lost/Stolen Permits:	If a permit is stolen or lost it becomes invalid and the issuing sheriff must be notified within 3 business days. Download and complete the permit lost or destroyed form and have it notarized.
Residency Changes:	Moving to Colorado and interested in applying for a resident permit? How soon can you apply? Colorado issues permits to residents and members of the military permanently stationed in Colorado and their immediate family members. You can apply for your permit with your local sheriff once you have established your residence. Moving from Colorado and have a Colorado resident permit? Does that permit transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Colorado permit remains valid? If a person with a Colorado permit to carry a concealed weapon establishes residency in another state, the permit expires upon the establishment of residence in the other state.

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Colorado Concealed Carry Permit Application Process

How to Apply for a Colorado Concealed Carry Permit

Step 1:	Complete a firearm training course if required.
Step 2:	Download the application or pick up from your local sheriff’s office.
Step 3:	Take your completed, unsigned application to your local sheriff's office. You will need the following documents: Training certificate; Drivers license or state ID; Passport-style photo taken within the last thirty days; and Proof of residency. You will be fingerprinted.
Step 4:	You will be notified if your application has been approved.

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Firearms Training Requirements in Colorado

Applicants for a Colorado permit to carry a concealed handgun must demonstrate competence with a handgun by submitting evidence of completion of one of the following:

A training certificate from a handgun training class obtained within the 10 years preceding submittal of the application.
Evidence of experience with a firearm through participation in organized shooting competitions or current military service;
Evidence that, at the time the application is submitted, the applicant is a certified instructor;
Proof of honorable discharge from a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces within 3 years or that reflects pistol qualifications obtained within the 10 years preceding submittal of the application; or
A certificate showing retirement from a Colorado law enforcement agency that reflects pistol qualifications obtained within the 10 years preceding submittal of the application.

The applicant shall submit the original training certificate or a photocopy thereof that includes the original signature of the class instructor. The training cannot be through an online course, but must be attended in person at a physical location with a certified instructor.

No additional training is required for permit renewals.

Find a USCCA Certified Instructor or Firearms Training Class Near You

Take a Firearms Training Class or a Concealed Carry Class in Colorado.

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Colorado Concealed Carry Permit Renewal Process

How to Renew a Colorado Concealed Carry Permit

Step 1:	Renewals are the responsibility of the permittee. Within 120 days prior to expiration of a permit, the permittee may obtain a renewal form from the county sheriff’s office where you reside, own property or own a business. A permittee who fails to file a renewal form on or before the permit expiration date and up to 60 days after the expiration date, may renew the permit by paying a late fee of $15.00 in addition to the renewal fees. No permit will be renewed 6 months or more after its expiration date and the permit shall be deemed permanently expired. A person whose permit has permanently expired may reapply by submitting a new application and the required fees.
Step 2:	Download the application or pick up from your local sheriff’s office.
Step 3:	Submit a completed renewal form, photo ID, proof of residency (i.e., lease agreement, mortgage statement, copy of tax statement), a notarized affidavit stating that the permittee remains qualified pursuant to the criteria specified and renewal fee.
Step 4:	You will be notified if your application has been approved.

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Law Enforcement Officers (LEO)/Retired LEOs

Law enforcement officers (LEOs) and Retired LEOs (RLEOs) may choose to carry under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA), often referred to as HR 218. Under 18 U.S. Code §§ 926B & 926C, qualified LEOs and qualified retired LEOs, or those separated from service in good standing, can carry a concealed firearm in any jurisdiction in the United States, regardless of state or local laws, with some exceptions. For details, check out our Federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) page.

Colorado has State Standards for Departments to provide photo IDs to RLEOs. They require a complete background check and fees may be charged.

Col. Rev. Stat. § 24-33.5-112 Dept of Public Safety State law enforcement agencies to provide identification cards to retired peace officers upon request
Col. Rev. Stat. § 24-31-109 Attorney general to provide identification cards to retired peace officers upon request
Col. Rev. Stat. § 24-35-119 Dept of Revenue Law enforcement agencies of the department to provide identification cards to retired peace officers upon request
Col. Rev. Stat. § 31-30-106 Police to provide identification cards to retired peace officers upon request
Col. Rev. Stat. § 23-5-142 Postsecondary Education State Universities and Colleges Institution law enforcement agencies to provide identification cards to retired peace officers upon request
Col. Rev. Stat. § 17-1-115.2 Correctional law enforcement agencies to provide identification cards to retired peace officers upon request

Per the CO DPS State Patrol website, the Colorado State Patrol Academy Range can only provide firearms qualification service to retired Colorado State Patrol Sworn Officers. Anyone other than retired Colorado State Patrol Sworn officers should contact their Local County Sheriff’s Department.

Forms

CO DPS Retired Commissioned Officers Firearms Training Program Application (CSP 31)
CO DPS Colorado State Patrol Retired Officers Medical Release (CSP 31B)
County Sheriff’s of Colorado Separated LEOSA Carry Application
County Sheriff’s of Colorado LEOSA Carry Application

Links
Denver Police LEOSA Guidelines

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Colorado Location Restrictions

Where Can I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Colorado?

Carry in bars/restaurants that serve alcohol? Yes, unless posted, and provided you are not under the influence.
Carry in my vehicle without a permit/license? Yes.
Carry in roadside rest areas? Yes.
Carry in state/national parks, state/national forests and WMAs? Yes.
Carry on public transportation? Yes, with a permit (permit is legal authority).
Carry in places of worship? There is no state statute prohibiting concealed carry in places of worship. However, since places of worship are private property, they may post signs prohibiting firearms.

Where Can't I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Colorado?

Places off-limits even with a permit/license

Public elementary, middle, junior high or high schools, (CCW permit holders may have handguns inside of vehicles and if the permittee is not in the vehicle, the handgun must be in a compartment within the vehicle and the vehicle locked) [Co. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-105.5];
Public buildings with fixed security checkpoints such as courthouses [Co. Rev. Stat. § 18-12-214];
Public facilities in the city of Aurora, including, but not be limited to, municipally owned, operated or leased buildings, properties, recreational facilities, parks, trails, and open spaces [Ord. Sec. 94-154];
Secure areas of airports [Denver Municipal Airport System Rules and Regulations 20.1];
On a snowmobile [Co. Rev. Stat. § 33-14-117]; and
Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law.

On March 30, 2022, Gov. Jared Polis signed HB 1086 into law. It prohibits a person from openly carrying a firearm within any polling location or central count facility, or within 100 feet of a ballot drop box or any building in which a polling location or central count facility is located, while an election or any related ongoing election administration activity is in progress. The law will go into effect on May 29, 2022.

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FAQ: Colorado Concealed Carry Questions

What Are the Knife Laws in Colorado?	In Colorado, you can own almost any knife as long as it is not a ballistic knife. All legal knives can be carried in the open. It is illegal to carry concealed a knife with a blade longer than 3.5 inches unless it is a fishing or hunting knife. Any knife with a blade shorter than 3.5 inches can be carried openly or concealed. Deadly weapons may not be possessed on school grounds. Local authorities may also have laws, such as in Boulder County where it is illegal to carry any concealed knife. [Colo. Rev. Stat. §§ 18-12-102, 18-12-105 & 18-12-105.5]
WEAR A COVID MASK & CARRY? I can legally carry a concealed firearm in Colorado, but can I wear a COVID 19 protective mask while carrying concealed?	There is no known statute in Colorado making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed.In addition, the Weld County sheriff has stated, “Nowhere in Colorado law does it state one cannot wear a face mask and lawfully carry a concealed weapon at the same time,”
CARRY WHILE GUN HUNTING? Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Colorado?	Yes. A person who may lawfully possess a handgun may carry a handgun while legally engaged in hunting activities within the state. [Colo. Rev. Stat. 18-12-204(3)(a)(ii)]
CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Colorado?	Yes. A person who may lawfully possess a handgun may carry a handgun while legally engaged in hunting activities within the state. [Colo. Rev. Stat. 18-12-204(3)(a)(ii)]
HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Colorado?	Yes. No person shall willfully prevent or interfere with the lawful participation of any individual in the activity of hunting, trapping, or fishing. [§ 33-6-115.5]

Related Information & Links for Colorado Gun Laws

Colorado Gun Laws Updates:

Date	Details
2022-04-04	Added HB 1086
2021-12-13	Added Boulder magazine ban ruling dismissal to the At A Glance table
2021-06-21	Updated [background check info] per the passage of HB-1298 in At A Glance table
2021-06-21	Updated preemption info based on passage of SB 256 in At A Glance table
2021-05-17	Updated preemption info based on passage of SB 256 in At A Glance table
2021-03-17	Added info on driver's license link to permit in At A Glance table
2020-09-03	Added Boulder District Court judge magazine ban ruling to the At A Glance table
2020-06-30	Added information on Self Defense in the Summary
2020-06-26	Added information on wearing a COVID 19 mask while carrying concealed above the Summary
2020-05-05	Added link to National Parks to At A Glance table
2020-04-17	Added info on handguns at hotels in At A Glance table
2020-04-03	Added info on handguns on private property in At A Glance table
2020-02-24	Added statutory link and details on private gun sales in At A Glance table
2020-02-18	Added info on carry in bars to the At A Glance table
2020-02-11	Added related blog posts with links
2020-01-27	Added info regarding residency changes and resulting impacts on carry permits
2020-01-10	Updated the knife laws and added statutory references
2020-01-02	Updated info on carry while using alcohol or controlled substances in At A Glance table
2019-12-04	Updated info on new red flag law info to At A Glance table
2019-11-14	Added info on whether a valid state ccw permit exempts a person from needing a background check when purchasing a firearm to the At A Glance table
2019-10-31	Added statutory references and links for can’t carry locations
2019-10-14	Added brandishing info to At A Glance table
2019-10-01	Added Hunter Harassment info to At A Glance table
2019-08-29	Added Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray to the At A Glance table
2019-08-13	Added Carry While Huntinginfo to At A Glance table
2019-07-24	Added anchor links to various sections below the Summary
2019-05-24	Added minimum age to possess and transport a handgun to At A Glance table
2019-04-26	Added stun gun/Taserinfo to At A Glance table
2019-04-17	Added permit renewal and name/address change info
2019-04-15	Links checked
2019-03-15	Added new ERPO Law and effective date to the At A Glance table
2019-02-15	Added info on state implementation of Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act (LEOSA)
2019-02-09	Added pages for Federal Gun Laws, Traveling with Firearms & Terminology
2019-02-06	Added ammunition restrictions info to At A Glance table
2019-01-25	Added red flag law info to At A Glance table
2019-01-25	Added church carry info to location restrictions section
2019-01-24	Links checked
2019-01-10	Added alcohol or prescription medication info to At A Glance table

Did We Miss Something?

Here at the USCCA, it is our mission to provide responsible gun owners with the tools they need to be educated and trained. Our team is constantly working to provide you with the most up-to-date and comprehensive list of self-defense laws available for every state.

If you have any questions that you don’t see answered here — let us know! Just email [email protected] and we will be sure to get your question resolved. Your feedback matters to us, and we appreciate you helping to make this page the best possible resource for responsible gun owners!

Permit numbers were obtained from the Crime Prevention Resource Center’s publication entitled, “Concealed Carry Permit Holders Across the United States.” Numbers include resident and non-resident permits for those states that issue both.

The information contained on this website is provided as a service to USCCA, Inc. members and the concealed carry community, and does not constitute legal advice. Although we attempt to address all areas of concealed carry laws in all states, we make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information disclosed. Legal advice must always be tailored to the individual facts and circumstances of each individual case. Laws are constantly changing, and as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer.

SIf you have any questions regarding USCCA Membership, Delta Defense, handguns laws or the lawful process of carrying concealed, please contact the award-winning Delta Defense Customer Engagement Team.

Colorado Concealed Carry Reciprocity Map & Gun Laws

Have concealed carry permits from more than one state?

Check out our new Multi-State Permit Tool here!

Summary of Colorado Gun Laws

Self-Defense

Colorado Quick Links

Colorado Gun Laws at a Glance

Carry Basics

Constitutional Carry?

Open Carry Permitted?

Gun Permit Licensure?

Minimum Age for Concealed Carry?

Weapons Other Than Handguns Allowed?

Tasers or Stun Guns?

Chemical Spray/Pepper Spray?

MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS?

AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS?

Use the NEW Reciprocity by USCCA App!

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Carry Locations

Carry in Vehicle?

Carry at Roadside Rest Areas?

Carry in State/National Parks, State/National Forests and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)?

Carry in Bars/Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?

Carry/Possess at a hotel?

Store in a Vehicle in an Employee Parking Lot?

Key State Laws

Duty to Inform Officer You're Carrying?

DRIVER'S LICENSE LINKED TO CCW PERMIT?

"No Weapons Allowed" Signs Enforced?

Preemption?

Red Flag Law?

Brandishing?

Carry While Using Alcohol or Controlled Substances?

NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING?

PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY?

Handgun Purchase & Possession

Purchase Permits?

Background Checks for Private Gun Sales? Exceptions?

Colorado Permit Exempts from Background Check?

Waiting Period?

Handgun Registration?

Minimum Age to Possess and Transport?

Possess a handgun on my private property without a permit?

Related Blog Posts

Have Questions? Contact Our Award-Winning, Wisconsin-Based Member Services Team 24/7 at 800-674-9779​

State Constitutional Provision

Colorado Concealed Carry Reciprocity With Other States

Other States' Reciprocity With Colorado

States That Have Restricted Reciprocity with Colorado

Permitless Carry States

Colorado Concealed Carry Permit Information

Requirements:

Fees:

Valid For:

Processing Time:

Application:

Non-Resident Concealed Carry Permits:

Name/Address Changes:

Lost/Stolen Permits:

Residency Changes:

Colorado Concealed Carry Permit Application Process

Step 1:

Step 2:

Step 3:

Step 4:

Firearms Training Requirements in Colorado

Colorado Concealed Carry Permit Renewal Process

Step 1:

Step 2:

Step 3:

Step 4:

Law Enforcement Officers (LEO)/Retired LEOs

Colorado Location Restrictions

Where Can I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Colorado?

Where Can't I Carry a Concealed Firearm in Colorado?

FAQ: Colorado Concealed Carry Questions

What Are the Knife Laws in Colorado?

WEAR A COVID MASK & CARRY?

CARRY WHILE GUN HUNTING?

Have Questions? Contact Our Award-Winning, Wisconsin-Based Member Services Team 24/7 at 800-674-9779