OCSD CCW Renewal

Frequently Asked Questions:

Below you will find answers to the most common questions regarding the renewal process:

How can I obtain a Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) license?

Contact your county sheriff's office or, if you are a resident of an incorporated city, your city police department, for information on obtaining a CCW license. They can answer your questions and provide you with a copy of their CCW license policy statement and the CCW license application. If you live within an incorporated city, you may apply to the police department or the county sheriff's office for a CCW license. However, only residents of a city may apply to a city police department for a CCW license.
(Pen. Code, §§ 26150-26225.)

May I carry a concealed firearm in California?

Generally you may not carry a concealed firearm on your person in public unless you have a valid Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) license. CCW licenses are issued only by a California county sheriff to residents of the county, or the chief of police to residents of the city. California law does not honor or recognize CCW licenses issued outside this state. 
(Pen. Code, §§ 25400-25700, 26150-26225.)

I live in another state and have a permit to carry a concealed handgun that was issued in my home state. Does my permit allow me to carry a concealed handgun while in California?

No. CCW licenses/permits issued in other states are not valid in California.
(Pen. Code, §§ 25400-25700.)

What is the principle document that I need to review for a CCW in Orange County?

You will need to review and be knowledgeable of all documents, forms, and penal codes identified in the Orange County Sheriff's Department website as well as any associated information and penal code on the California Department of Justice website in the Firearms Bureau.