Colorado's New Firearms Safety Course Requirement
Effective August 1, 2026
Required for the purchase of qualifying semi-automatic firearms in Colorado

✓ State-Approved Curriculum

✓ Colorado Verified Instructor

✓ Small Class Sizes

✓ Convenient Denver Metro Area Location

✓ Official Course Completion Submitted Through Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW)

Who is Required To Take This Training?

Beginning August 1, 2026, Colorado law requires individuals purchasing certain semi-automatic firearms (SSF) to complete a state-approved firearms safety course before purchase.

In The Hunt Training offers state-approved firearms safety courses (4 hour / 12 hour) taught by a verified Colorado instructor in a professional, safety-focused environment.

What Firearms Safety Course Do You Need?

If you're unsure whether this law applies to you, review the information below or join our Interest List for future course announcements and updates.

4-Hour Basic Firearms Safety Course

For individuals who have completed a CPW-approved Hunter Education course. You must have your Hunter Education credentials verified in CPW’s records system. Out-of-state Hunter Education cards must be verified at a CPW office.

Course Includes:

4 hours of classroom instruction
State-approved curriculum
Required written & practical examination
Official Course Completion Submitted By Instructor Through CPW

Course Price: $120

Join Interest List

12-Hour Extended Firearms Safety Course

For individuals who do not qualify for the abbreviated course option.

Course Includes:

12 hours of classroom instruction over two days
State-approved curriculum
Required written & practical examination
Official Course Completion Submitted By Instructor Through CPW

Course Price: $250

Join Interest List

What to Expect

You will need to have an eligibility card before you can take this class. You can get one from your county sheriff's department.
This will be a classroom setting. No live fire will be conducted.
You will not need a firearm to attend. Training aids will be provided for demonstrations and practical exam.
NO LIVE AMMO is allowed in the classroom
Periodic breaks will be given throughout training
You will be required to take a written exam (passing with 90% or better)
You will take a practical hands-on exam

Meet Your Instructor

Chris Kelley is a professional firearms instructor, Colorado CHP Instructor, Colorado Verified Firearms Safety Instructor, and former law enforcement officer committed to helping students build the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to become safer and more capable firearm owners.

Learn More About Your Instructor

Official Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find info on Senate Bill 25-003?

- View details about the bill Here.

What is the list of Semi-Automatic Firearms in SB25-003?

- View the updated list of SSFs Here.

What are the steps to be able to purchase certain Semi-Automatic Firearms (SSFs) in Colorado?

- Steps to be able to purchase a specified semi-automatic firearm - Customer Journey

If I have my concealed handgun permit does that count for the firearms safety program?

- No, you need to go through the state-approved Firearms Safety Program

Does my concealed carry permit background check work for the Firearms Safety Program?

- No, you will need to get your own named-based background check. You can get one Here.

If I have Hunter's Safety from another state does that work for the 4 hour course?

- All out-of-state courses must be CPW-certified; if you took a course outside of Colorado, you must bring your hunter education card or record to a CPW office to verify your credentials.

How do I see if my Hunter's Safety is approved by CPW?

- Please use this link for more information on Approved Hunter's Safety Programs.

Do I receive a certificate?

- No. Students who successfully complete the course will have their completion submitted through Colorado's official CPW reporting system as required by state law.

Is live ammunition allowed in class?

- No. Live ammunition is prohibited during the course.

Will we be doing any Live Fire training?

- No there will be no live fire training