Arizona is a permitless-carry state: since 2010, adults 21 and older who can legally own a firearm can carry concealed without a permit. So why do thousands of Arizonans still get a Concealed Weapons Permit (CCW) every year? Because the permit does things permitless carry can't.
Why get a CCW permit if Arizona doesn't require one?
- Carry when you travel. Arizona's permit is honored in about 37 other states. Permitless carry only covers you inside Arizona. Reciprocity changes, so check the AZ DPS reciprocity list before every trip.
- Faster gun purchases. ATF accepts a valid Arizona CCW permit as an alternative to the NICS background check when you buy from a dealer. You still fill out a Form 4473, but you usually skip the wait for a NICS response.
- Carry at 19 or 20 if you serve. Active-duty military and veterans can get an Arizona permit at 19.
- You know the law. The required class covers Arizona carry law and use of force: things every person who carries should know, permit or not.
Who can apply?
- Age 21 or older (19 or older for active-duty military and veterans)
- Legally allowed to own a firearm under state and federal law
- Complete an approved firearms safety training course
- Submit fingerprints and the AZ DPS application
- Pay the $60 state fee to AZ DPS
The permit is valid for five years and can be renewed.
How it works at Guns 2 Ammo
- Book a seat in our Arizona CCW Certification class. It's a 4-hour classroom course on select Saturdays at 11:30 AM. $85 per seat, or $76.50 for range members.
- Bring a valid government photo ID and something to take notes with. No firearm and no live fire are needed.
- Learn Arizona law with our NRA-certified instructors, including a retired Mesa Police Department firearms instructor: A.R.S. §13-3112, where you can and can't carry, and the use-of-force rules.
- We complete your DPS application and take your fingerprints in class. No separate fingerprint appointment.
- Leave with your certificate the same day, then mail your application with the $60 DPS fee.
Total cost
| CCW class at Guns 2 Ammo | $85 ($76.50 for members) |
| AZ DPS permit fee (paid when you mail the application) | $60 |
| Fingerprints | Included, done in class |
Common questions
Do I have to be an Arizona resident? No. Arizona issues permits to non-residents who meet the same requirements.
Do I need to own a gun first? No. The class is classroom-only. If you're new to handguns, take Basic Handgun first and shoot with a coach before you choose a carry gun.
How long until the permit arrives? DPS processes applications after it receives them by mail. Ask in class for the current timing.
What's the next step after the permit? Carrying well takes practice. See Arizona Carry Basics: What Every Gun Owner Should Know and How to Choose a Concealed Carry Holster.
Classes that help
From first shot to permit in hand, in this order.
- Arizona CCW Certification · $85
4-hour classroom course. Arizona carry law and use of force; DPS application and fingerprints done in class. Select Saturdays at 11:30 AM. - Basic Handgun · $95
2 hours, 1-6 students. Grip, stance, sights and trigger, then 50 rounds with one-on-one coaching. Handgun provided. Wednesday evenings at 5:45 PM. - Defensive Pistol · $295
Advanced, coming soon: stress-fire drills, low light, malfunction clearance and force-on-force scenarios. Prerequisite: CCW. Join the interest list.
See upcoming class dates Full course catalog
Taught by NRA-certified instructors. Range members save 10% on every course.
Questions? Call us at (602) 715-2677 or stop by 6030 E Main St, Suite 103, Mesa, AZ 85205.
General information current as of October 2026, not legal advice. Laws change; check the current statute or ask an attorney about your situation.