This page is designed to give general information as well as specific requirements regarding the application process for a Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) license from the Orange County Sheriff-Coroner Department.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Your CCW application needs to be submitted through our online “Permitium” system. The CCW application process consists of a review of the submitted application along with a thorough background and criminal history check.
When applying, please ensure you provide the necessary supporting documents. Whether you are a new or renewal applicant, you must upload all of the documentation listed below even if you have provided them on a previous application. Lack of sufficient documentation is the most common reason for a delay in the processing of a CCW application.
All new applicants must schedule an interview at the time of the application. Renewal applicants do not need to be interviewed. You will be contacted by one of our CCW specialists in the order in which your application has been received.
If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at ccwpermits@OCsheriff.gov.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
- Valid California Driver’s License or California ID Card (an ID card will only be accepted if you do not possess a driver's license from another state)
- Proof of Orange County residency (you can use two of the following):
- Rental or lease agreement with the signature of the owner/landlord and the tenant/resident listing the term of residency
- Deed or title to residential real property
- Mortgage/Credit card statement
- Residence utility bill (gas, water, electricity, solar, cable, internet or cellular phone)
- If any of the above are in the spouse’s name, we will accept them with proof of marriage or legal domestic partnership
- 90-Day out of county residents are exempt
- DD-214/Orders(Military only)
- Certificate of Naturalization, Green Card, and/or Passport (If you were born outside the United States)
- CCW Permit (Renewals only)
- 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Failure to upload the required documents at the time of submission may result in the application being withdrawn.
REQUIRED TRAINING/INSPECTION(S)
- New applicants must complete an 8-16 hour course.
- Renewal applicants must complete a 4 hour course.
- All listed firearms must be inspected to ensure it is in a safe, legal, and operable condition.
- Applicant must complete a live fire course for every firearm listed on the permit.
- Training/inspection(s) must be completed at an approved training provider.
- A list of Training Providers can be downloaded below, under Related Files.
- CCW’s will not be issued until the training is complete.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS/INFORMATION
- Listed handguns must be concealable on one’s person or reasonably sized bag/purse.
- Listed handguns must be registered in the State of California.
- Handguns can be registered to the applicant or spouse/domestic partner.
- Must be DROS (FFL A&D check outs are not acceptable).
New Applicants must complete Live Scan fingerprinting/background check at a DOJ authorized location (renewal applicants are not required to live scan).
All firearms submitted for listing on a CCW license are subject to approval by the CCW Licensing Unit.
- A firearm may be legal to possess in California and NOT approved to list on the CCW.
- “AR Pistols” and similar firearms are NOT allowed at this time.
FIREARM MODIFICATIONS
Modifications are allowed for approved CCW listed handguns so long as the gun and all parts/modifications are legal in the State of California. All firearms/modifications must be inspected at the time of training to ensure the weapon is in safe working order.
- If a modification(s) is done after the issuance of the license, you must complete the training/inspection as if it were a newly listed weapon. The training certificate will be added to your file.
- The responsibility for the legality of firearm and its parts/accessories lies solely with the owner/applicant.
- Any violations or failure to adhere to state laws/regulations will result in immediate suspension and/or revocation of license.
MAGAZINE CAPACITY
The CCW license does not define magazine capacity, just the firearm model, serial number, and caliber. If the magazine and firearm are legal to possess in the State of California, and the firearm is approved to be listed on the license, a CCW permit holder may carry.
- California firearms laws/regulations are subject to change. It is the responsibility of the owner/applicant to ensure the firearm and magazine are in compliance with California law at the time of carry.
- Any violations or failure to adhere to state laws/regulations will result in immediate suspension and/or revocation of license.
**OCSD does not provide legal advice on firearms or related equipment**
For further information, refer to the Department of Justice or consult with an attorney.
| Location |
Hours |
|---|
Orange County Sheriff's Department
CCW Licensing Unit
320 N. Flower Street 4th Floor
Santa Ana, CA 92703 |
Monday through Friday
8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
(with the exception of County holidays)
|
To begin the CCW Application, Renewal or Amendment Process click here.
