Frequently Asked Questions

• Fill out the application and submit the required fees.
• You will be given a date for an interview with the CCW coordinator.
• Appear on time (maybe a little early) for you interview.
• You will be interviewed (approximately 30 to 40 minutes).
• You will be fingerprinted (prints go to California Department of Justice and the FBI).  Prints are checked against both California and Federal arrest records.
• After the interview, arrange for and attend 16 hours of CCW training and a range qualification from a Humboldt County Approved trainer. (We do not accept training from out of county trainers).
• Wait for your fingerprint clearances and background to be completed (time will be dependent on CCW applicant load), approximately 1 month.
• You will receive a notification that your permit is ready. 
• Pay the remaining fees due.
• Go to the Sheriff’s Office and pick up your permit.

The interview will be fairly relaxed and will last 30 to 40 minutes in most cases. Your application will be reviewed, in your presence, and clarifying questions will be asked. You will sign your application. You will be asked questions about yourself and your life experiences. Your guns will be inspected to verify the serial numbers, and those numbers will be checked for registration and status. The general restrictions on the CCW license will be discussed and your photo will be taken.

The firearms you list on your application (six (6) maximum).

Your permit allows you to carry concealed in all unrestricted areas. Restricted areas include, but are not limited to:

• Any place where firearms are prohibited.
• Schools
• Federal and state facilities
• Private business that don’t wish to have firearms on the premises
• Professional sporting events
• Concerts

• Federal and state laws pertaining to firearms.
• Local ordinances pertaining to firearms.
• Rules and restrictions imposed by private business and persons when on their property.

• Keep your hands on the steering wheel and visible to the officer.
• Let the officer know that you are a CCW licensee and carrying concealed.
• Follow directions given by the officer. 
• After the contact is over you will be released and sent on your way.

You can apply for a duplicate for a fee of $14.00.

The permit, in most instances is good for two (2) years.

Approximately 2 months prior to expiration, submit an online renewal application and fees. The application and permit will be processed and you will be notified when it is ready to pick up.

If you fail to meet the requirements of Penal Code 26150, become a disqualified person under Penal Code 26202, or violate any provision of Penal Code 26200, the Sheriff’s Office will immediately suspend your permit. Furthermore, if you are arrested for any criminal offense and do not promptly report the arrest to the Sheriff’s Office CCW Division, your permit will be revoked. Licensees must report any arrests by calling the CCW Coordinator at (707) 268-3619, and messages can be left outside business hours. Additionally, any use of marijuana by a licensee will result in the immediate suspension of the permit.

If you are a security guard, you can obtain an open carry permit through the State of California. Otherwise, open carry permits are not issued by Sheriff Honsal in Humboldt County.

Should you have further questions feel free to contact the CCW Coordinator at (707) 445-7251.