Ohio Concealed Handgun License (CHL) Course

When you leave this class you will have a full understanding of the greater responsibility you have if you choose to carry a gun, and the reality of self-defense. This is a required class to get your Concealed Handgun License in the state of Ohio. You will be walked step-by-step through the process of obtaining your license.

Upon completion of this course, students will leave with these state required education components:

• The ability to name, explain and demonstrate the rules for safe handling of a handgun and proper storage practices for handguns and ammunition
• The ability to demonstrate and explain how to handle ammunition in a safe manner
• The ability to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and attitude necessary to shoot a handgun in a safe manner
• Gun-handling training

Even though permitless carry is now legal, there are many benefits to obtaining a concealed carry license. The card will ensure that you can continue to carry your handgun when traveling in states that honor Ohio’s concealed-carry license, and also will allow you to skip the background check when you buy a gun. For those who decide to carry without a permit, it is vital to familiarize yourself with Ohio laws about self-defense and concealed carry — ignorance can have a high cost.

The state of Ohio requires students to complete a live fire exercise to obtain your permit. Your instructor will provide detailed information about the live fire portion of this course upon registration.

STATE REQUIREMENTS TO OBTAIN PERMIT

EDUCATION

• Undergo eight hours of training, which covers handgun operation, and safe handling of guns and ammunition. In addition, students also are required to read this guide to become familiar with Ohio’s laws regarding self-defense and concealed carry.
• The applicant also must complete an examination that tests his or her competency. The test will include a written section on the ability to name and explain the rules for the safe handling of a handgun and proper storage practices for handguns and ammunition.
• The exam will also include an in-person physical demonstration of competency on handgun usage and rules for safe handling and storage of a handgun as well as a physical demonstration of the attitude necessary to shoot a handgun in a safe manner.

LIVE FIRE

• Students are required to spend two hours on a shooting range learning how to shoot a pistol safely under the guidance of certified instructors.

FEES

• *Payment must be in the form of cash or money orders. Please bring exact change. No personal checks will be accepted.*
• Initial License Fee | $67.00 for Ohio residents for more than five years, if less than five years the fee is $77.00
• One Passport Size Photo Fee | $5.00
• License Renewal Fee | $50.00 for Ohio residents for more than five years, if less than five years the fee is $60.00
• Replacement License Fee | $15.00
• Temporary Emergency License Fee | $37.00 for Ohio residents for more than five years, if less than five years the fee is $61.00

DOCUMENTATION + APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

• A certificate of completion of a firearms safety course (this class fulfills this requirement.)
• Completed application.
• A color passport sized photo taken within 30 days of application.
• Valid Driver’s License or State I.D.
• An original or photocopy of a certificate of competency of a firearms safety, training, re-qualification or firearms safety instructor course.
• Applicants must submit to having fingerprints electronically scanned or inked and rolled onto a card.
• Applicants must pass a criminal background check.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.