Obtaining an Arizona CCW Permit is a straightforward process. Applicants must complete a firearms safety training course, submit their application to AZDPS, submit fingerprints and undergo an FBI background check. Then allow AZDPS up to 75 days to process their application. Follow the steps below to get started.

Step 1: Verify You Meet the Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, make sure you meet Arizona’s minimum eligibility requirements. Applicants must meet the age requirements, be legally eligible to possess a firearm, complete the required firearms safety training, and pass the required FBI background check.

Step 2: Complete a Firearms Safety Training Course

Arizona requires applicants to demonstrate competence with a firearm before applying for a CCW Permit. Applicants may satisfy this requirement by completing a firearms safety training course online, taught by an NRA Certified Instructor. The certificate issued must have the instructor’s active NRA ID Certification # to be valid (cannot be expired). The training course must cover Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) – Title 13, Chapters 4 and 31. The course covers topics including:

• Firearm safety rules
• Arizona firearm laws
• Safe handling and storage
• Concealed carry responsibilities
• There is no live-fire qualification required

Military service members, veterans, and individuals with qualifying firearms certifications may already meet the training requirement. However, civilian firearms safety training is completely different from military training. Military service members and veterans must also learn about Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) – Title 13 –  Chapters 4 and 31. Take our Arizona CCW Certification Course online now.

Step 3: Complete the Arizona CCW Permit Application

Complete the Arizona CCW Permit application online through Permitium or by mail. The online application submission is the quickest and easiest process to apply for your permit. Please carefully review all information before submission.

You will need:

• Submit an AZDPS CCW Permit Application.
• A certificate of completion as proof of firearms safety training.
• Electronic fingerprints or (2) completed ink-rolled physical fingerprint cards on FBI FD-258 cards.
• Copy of a government-issued photo identification (driver’s license)
• Application fee of $60 (paid online with credit/debit card). Mailed applications must include certified funds. 
• If born outside the United States or one of its territories, submit a copy of one of the following: record of birth abroad to an American citizen, record of birth to Armed Service personnel, passport issued by the United States, certificate of naturalization (required if you are a naturalized US citizen).
• If you are a Lawful Permanent Resident, your issued card must be for 10 years (2 year cards are not accepted). You must submit a copy of your driver’s license, and the address listed on the application must match the address on your driver’s license. Also, you must submit a copy of the front and back sides of your green card (two separate files). 
• If you have any felony or domestic violence convictions, the conviction must be expunged, set aside, vacated, or pardoned, or the individual’s right to possess firearms has been restored, and must not be a prohibited possessor under state or federal law. You must provide proper court documentation to apply.
• Incomplete applications may result in processing delays.

Step 4: Obtain Fingerprints

All applicants applying for an Arizona CCW Permit must submit new fingerprints as part of the application process. Fingerprints are used to conduct the required FBI background check. Even if you already have a Fingerprint Clearance Card, you must submit new fingerprints with your application.

• Online Applicants: Electronic fingerprints through Fieldprint for $8-$10. Email instructions from AZDPS will follow after you submit your online application.
• Mailed Applications: Go through a qualified fingerprint technician or third-party fingerprinting provider to obtain ink-rolled fingerprints on FBI FD-258 cards for around $50 (average fee). Be sure to follow AZDPS instructions on physical fingerprint cards to avoid delays. You must mail your application and fingerprint cards to AZDPS. Or, you may drop them off at AZDPS in person for processing. 

Step 5: Wait for Application Processing

Once the AZDPS receives your fingerprints, they will review your application, conduct the required background checks, and verify that all eligibility requirements have been met. Processing times vary depending on application volume and background check results. AZDPS advises applicants to allow up to 75 days for processing. Applications that are incomplete or require additional documents for review may take longer.

You may contact the Concealed Weapons Permit Unit (CWPU) if you have questions regarding your application. If you have not heard back from AZDPS after 60 days, you may contact AZDPS for a status update on your application.

Step 6: Receive Your Arizona CCW Permit

Once approved, AZDPS will mail your Arizona CCW Permit to the address listed on your application. After receiving your permit, review the information on the card for accuracy and carry it with you at all times (in your wallet or purse). 

Congratulations! You are now an Arizona CCW Permit holder and may enjoy the many benefits that come with maintaining an active Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit. 

Step 7: AZ CCW Permit Renewal

Your Arizona CCW Permit is valid for 5 years. You may renew your permit 90 days before the expiration date listed on your permit card. Use our free Renewal Calculator to obtain your 90 day renewal window and 60 day grace period. Bookmark our free Arizona CCW Renewal Calculator so you’ll know exactly when your renewal window opens five years from now.