How to get a California concealed weapons permit

Published on May 29, 2015
Duration: 17:43

This video provides an expert-level overview of obtaining a California Concealed Carry Permit (CCW), emphasizing that permits are issued by local law enforcement, typically the Sheriff's Department, and are not state-issued. The speaker, a firearms instructor with experience teaching CCW courses in San Diego and Orange Counties, details the 'may issue' nature of California CCW laws, the subjective 'good cause' requirement, and the varying interpretations by different county sheriffs. It also discusses the legal challenges, including the Peruta case and its implications for Second Amendment rights in California.

Quick Summary

In California, Concealed Carry Permits (CCW) are issued by local law enforcement, primarily county Sheriffs, not the state. The 'may issue' statute requires 'good cause,' which is subjectively determined by each sheriff, making the process vary significantly by county and often difficult for general self-defense.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction to California CCW Permits
  2. 00:51California CCW: Local vs. State Issuance
  3. 01:18The 'May Issue' Statute and 'Good Cause'
  4. 02:51Sheriff's Discretion in Defining Good Cause
  5. 03:52Business Purpose CCW in San Diego/Orange County
  6. 05:00Examples of Business Jeopardy for CCW
  7. 07:13The Peruta v. San Diego Case Explained
  8. 08:04Ninth Circuit Ruling and Open Carry Laws
  9. 11:04En Banc Hearing and Future of Peruta Case
  10. 13:25County Variations in CCW Issuance
  11. 14:13Political Action: Sheriffs and Legislature
  12. 15:04Advocacy Groups and How to Help
  13. 16:23Taking Action to Change CCW Laws
  14. 16:59Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

How are Concealed Carry Permits issued in California?

In California, Concealed Carry Permits (CCW) are not issued by the state but by local law enforcement authorities, primarily the county Sheriff's Department. The issuance is discretionary, based on the sheriff's determination of 'good cause'.

What is 'good cause' for a California CCW permit?

'Good cause' for a California CCW permit is not defined by state statute and is left to the discretion of each county sheriff. This can range from documented threats and business-related jeopardy to personal self-defense needs, with interpretations varying significantly by county.

What was the significance of the Peruta v. San Diego case?

The Peruta v. San Diego case challenged California's 'good cause' requirement for CCW permits, arguing it violated the Second Amendment. While an initial ruling favored Peruta, the case has gone through further legal proceedings, including an en banc hearing by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Can I get a CCW permit in California for general self-defense?

Historically, obtaining a CCW permit in California for general self-defense has been difficult due to the 'good cause' requirement and sheriff discretion. Some counties may issue permits for business purposes or documented threats, but broad self-defense permits are rare in many areas.

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