Certifications › CCW
Concealed carry permit (CCW)
Last verified November 1, 2026
Not legal advice. This guide is general information, not legal or career advice. Licensing rules, hours and fees change and vary by state and employer. Verify every requirement with the issuing body before you enroll, apply or work.
What it is
A state permit to carry a concealed handgun. Some security and protection jobs require one, for example North Carolina armed guards who carry concealed must show a valid concealed carry permit.
Who needs it
Private citizens who carry concealed, and armed professionals whose state or employer requires a carry permit.
Requirements
Set by each state. Our permit guides cover fees, training, age, processing time and reciprocity for all 50 states and DC.
Typical cost and time
- Cost
- Check with Your state's permit agency
- Time
- Check with Your state's permit agency
Issuing body
Your state's permit agency
Renewal
Set by each state; see the state permit guide.
Permit rules by state
Sources
Last verified November 1, 2026. Where a field says "Check with", we couldn't confirm it from an official source.