Arkansas Concealed Carry Training Class
This class covers mental preparation to carry a gun, avoiding victimization, de-escalation techniques, and developing shooting skills which are invaluable to anyone planning on carrying a gun. A concealed carry license is not required in Arkansas, but if you would like the Enhanced Concealed Carry License, this class includes the training required and is only a 1-day class. There are pros and cons to getting your license, and this class is the best first step for anyone planning to carry concealed or open with or without a license.
We understand you will have many questions on your path to being a responsible concealed carrier. Our instructors help with every step of your journey, from determining if a license is right for you, classroom training, mental preparation to carry a gun, avoiding victimization, de-escalation techniques, developing shooting skills, the shooting qualification, the application process, sourcing the best concealed carry gear, and additional training classes.
This class creates a good foundation for CCW. However, most concealed carry licensees will want additional training to feel comfortable and confident before carrying a gun. Even experienced shooters will need occasional training to keep their skills honed. Independence Firearms and Training offers many classes designed to prepare your mental and shooting skills to be ready to defend yourself, your family, and your friends.
Sign up for your Arkansas Enhanced
Concealed Carry License Today
The Concealed Carry Licenses Offered in Arkansas
Arkansas issues a basic and enhanced concealed carry license. We recommend the enhanced license which allows you to carry in more locations prohibited by the basic license. Our enhanced combo class has an additional 1 1/2 hours of classroom training, and the State Police have a specific required live fire qualification test.
The cost with the state application is the same for both license types. In addition, by taking the combo class, you will be able to apply for the enhanced license from the start. This allows you to carry in more areas, plus it saves time and money if you ever decide to upgrade from a basic to an enhanced license. This class will also provide the training needed to upgrade to an enhanced license.
Benefits of a Concealed Carry License
In states where open carry and/or constitutional carry are legal, many people ask why should I get a concealed carry license? While there are numerous benefits, here are the top reasons you should get a concealed carry license.
Reciprocity – Once you have an Arkansas Concealed Carry License around 3/4 of the other states will have reciprocity with that license allowing you to conceal carry in those states. About half the states have constitutional carry and several that do not will have reciprocity with an Arkansas Concealed Carry License. If you plan to travel outside of Arkansas and carry a gun, it may be the best option to obtain an Arkansas Concealed Carry License.
Ease of Buying Firearms – in Arkansas, if you have a valid Arkansas Concealed Carry License, there is no background check required to purchase guns.
Confidence, Comfort, & Mental Preparedness – the knowledge, advice and training you will receive from a qualified instructor is invaluable. Good instructors will help you prepare mentally for self-defense situations, source the correct gear for your specific carrying situation, and be able to guide you in the right direction on your journey to becoming a responsible gun owner and concealed carrier. Even if you decide a license is not right for you, this training class will help you prepare to conceal carry responsibly. .
Sign-up for an Arkansas Enhanced Concealed Carry Class
We offer the enhanced combo and upgrade concealed carry class once a month on the 3rd Saturday. In addition, any individuals, groups, churches, clubs, or families who prefer to have a private concealed carry class can schedule directly with our office for a private class upon request. Private classes are offered at our range and training facility in Cord, AR or at a location arranged by the students. If we are holding a remote class, the students must provide a setting with a projector or large TV and seating for everyone in the course, along with a range with a berm that is safe to perform the live fire qualification out to 15 yards.
Location:
Independence Firearms and Training Classroom and Range at 305 Circle Dr, Cord, AR 72524
What to Bring for Concealed Carry Training Class:
- Pistol of your choice (with enough magazines to have 20 rounds loaded at the same)
- 50 rounds of ammunition for the Enhanced Class (if you do not plan to apply for a concealed carry license the shooting portion is not required but highly suggested)
- We have ammo for purchase if needed
- Holster and mag pouches are suggested but not required
- Eye and ear protection
- Government Photo ID
- Appropriate clothing (the qualifications will be outside typically in the afternoon)
- Sack Lunch or Country Crossroads does have lunch items & is close to the range
- Snacks and Drinks
*We have a rental plan to take care of the pistol, magazines, ammo, and safety gear if needed.
Weather and the Class
We will have the class regardless of the weather on class day. Most of the day, we are inside the classroom. Dress appropriately for the weather (hot or cold), but there is a covered area to shoot from on the range if there’s rain.
Upcoming Concealed Carry Classes
Concealed Carry Renewal
Concealed carry licenses must be renewed every 5 years. The renewal class consists of the recent legal updates and a live fire proficiency demonstration. We offer concealed carry renewal classes every month and have private or group renewal classes offered upon request. Call our office to schedule your renewal. You can take the renewal class up to 6 months before your license expires.
Application Links and Other Document Downloads
State Police Concealed Handgun Carry Licensing
New and Renewal Online Application
Check the Status of a Current Application
New, Renewal and Transfer Paper Application
Concealed Handgun Carry License Live Scan Operators
How to Obtain Enhanced Concealed Handgun Carry License
Concealed Handgun Carry License (CHCL) Laws (5-73-301 through 327)
Locations Where Possession of a Handgun is Prohibited
FAQ for Arkansas Concealed Carry
Q: Is a Concealed Carry License required in Arkansas?
A: No, we are a constitutional carry state and the license or permit will allow reciprocity additional states while traveling.
Q: Can I get the enhanced concealed carry license without a basic license first?
A: Yes, our 1 day combo class has all the training requirements to apply for the enhanced concealed carry license.
Q: What’s the difference between the basic & enhanced license?
A: The enhanced license allows you to carry in more areas.
Q: How old do I have to be to get a license?
A: 21 years or 18 if currently an enlisted member on active duty in the US armed forces or an officer.
Q: Do I have to be a resident of Arkansas to get a license?
A: Yes, you must be a resident for at least 90 days.
Exceptions:
1) if you have a concealed carry license in another state, you can transfer your license without waiting the 90 days for a basic license.
2) if you are a member of the US armed forces or have a legal partner who is active in the military.
Q: How long is my license good for?
A: Concealed carry licenses are good for 5 years.
Q: How do I renew my license?
A: Take a renewal class from a CHCL Instructor and submit your renewal paperwork to the state police.
Q: How long does it take to get my license?
A: While it might process faster, it can take up to 120 days from the time the state police receive your application, proof of training, fingerprints, and other required documents.