California Concealed Carry Permit Guide (2026)

Everything you need to know about getting and using a CCW in California.

Permit Type
May-Issue
Permit Cost
$200+
Processing
90–180 days
Reciprocity
0 states
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Permit Requirements

  • Be at least 21 years old (18 in some states for active military)
  • U.S. citizen or legal resident
  • No disqualifying criminal record
  • Complete a state-approved firearms training course
  • Submit application with required fees and fingerprints

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does California require a permit to carry concealed?+

Yes. California requires a state-issued concealed carry permit.

How much does a California CCW permit cost?+

The state fee in California is approximately $200+, not including training, fingerprints, or photos.

How long does California take to process a CCW application?+

Typical California processing time is 90–180 days.

How many states recognize a California CCW permit?+

0 states currently honor a California concealed carry permit.