New Jersey has some of the strictest gun laws in the nation, especially when it comes to CCW training. If you are interested in carrying a concealed firearm, you’ll need to take an approved course at a gun range.
This guide breaks down the entire process by unpacking your next steps, how you can prepare, and what to expect during your qualification.
Getting your CCW doesn’t have to be daunting. Read through this guide before you book your class or head to the shooting range.
Are you ready to start your concealed carry journey? Check out our free resource, How to Obtain My NJ CCW.
Introduction To Concealed Carry in NJ
According to the New Jersey State Police, CCW applicants must complete the Civilian Carry Assessment and Range Evaluation (CCARE) protocol before applying. You can complete CCARE at an outdoor or indoor gun range.
During the mandatory qualification process, you’ll be expected to demonstrate safety proficiency and basic marksmanship skills.
Now here’s a part people really shouldn’t rush past: choosing the right training company matters as much as the qualification itself.
Think of it like this—you wouldn’t hire a “wanna-be” parachute instructor who got certified last weekend and spends all day signing jump cards just to make a few bucks. Your safety and your future are too important for that. Firearms training is the same deal, especially in New Jersey.
It’s very important that you choose a reputable training company with instructors who have impeccable credentials and extraordinary experience—even better if they were State Police Firearms Instructors and have real-world experience testifying in court. In an anti-gun state with gun-hating legislation, your training isn’t just about shooting better—it’s about surviving legally.
Also, pick a company that keeps solid, essential records of your training. Those records, alongside your instructors’ credibility, can become a key part of your defense if you’re ever forced to explain your actions in court. In NJ, that’s not paranoia—that’s preparedness.
Stay away from “fast-food qualifications,” where the goal is to pump people through, sign certificates non-stop, and cash out. That kind of training is like buying a bargain-bin seatbelt: it looks fine until the moment you actually need it. When your freedom is on the line, quality training is not the place to shop cheap.
The process can seem overwhelming, but it’s manageable when broken down into clear steps. First off, verify your eligibility. You must be at least 21 years old and legally allowed to possess a firearm. You’ll also need to pass a background check. If you meet these standards, you will need to pass CCARE and then submit your application online.
It’s also important to stay updated on New Jersey’s firearm statutes. Laws in the state can change frequently. For example, the list of sensitive locations or the rules for transporting firearms can change from year to year. As a gun owner, it’s up to you to know these laws and adapt to any changes.
Your CCW class at a certified gun range will help you grasp the basics of safe handling, marksmanship, and the legal responsibilities of carrying a concealed pistol in New Jersey. The more prepared you are going in, the more confident and successful you’ll be during the qualification—and the more protected you’ll be if that training ever needs to stand behind you in the real world.
Qualification Course Overview
Here’s a breakdown of the Civilian Carry Assessment and Range Evaluation.
Purpose of the Qualification Course
The CCARE protocol ensures CCW holders can demonstrate a baseline level of handgun proficiency and safety competency. It is not designed to teach you advanced tactics or expert marksmanship. It covers the basics.
Who Teaches the Course?
According to New Jersey law, CCARE courses must be taught by certified firearms instructors. Not just any credential is acceptable. NJSP recognizes NRA, USCCA, and state-approved trainers. Active law enforcement officers who are in good standing may also teach CCARE courses.
With that in mind, make sure your course is being taught by certified instructors before signing up. Your instructor will be required to include their certification credentials on your completion certificate. NJSP will verify their credentials as part of your application review.
What the Course Covers
CCARE dives into the following topics:
- Safe gun handling
- Shooting fundamentals
- Range qualification
- Classroom instruction
- Legal use of force standards for New Jersey
Typically, a one-day course will last five to six hours. Of that, about three hours will be spent in the classroom. In the second half of the day, you will transition to the live-fire portion of the CCARE.
While attendees are excited to get on the range and fire some rounds downrange, the classroom portion is just as important. Make sure you are focused and attentive. If you don’t understand a concept your instructor covers, ask questions.
Pay particular attention to your legal obligations as a firearm owner. The instructor should review these topics in detail, but it’s up to you to know your rights and responsibilities.
Mandatory Requirement for Permit
Simply showing up for CCARE is not enough to obtain your CCW permit. You must pass the qualification course with a score of 80% or better and demonstrate your ability to load and unload, handle your weapon safely, and accurately hit your target.
If you cannot pass, your instructor will not sign your certificate. You may have to retake the course, which will delay your journey toward becoming a concealed weapon permit holder.
What To Expect During Training
After you wrap up the classroom portion, you’ll head to the range for live-fire training. As part of the CCARE protocol, you’ll be required to demonstrate the following:
- Safe handling of your weapon
- Proper loading and unloading
- Proper concealed carry draw
- Techniques of good marksmanship
During the live-fire portion, you’ll be using an FBI-type Q target. The course of fire includes 50 rounds per shooter. You will need to place at least 40 shots within the Q target silhouette for a passing score of 80%.
The distances are as follows:
- 3 yards
- 5 yards
- 7 yards
- 10 yards
- 15 yards
At each distance, your instructor will give you a command to fire. You will have to draw your pistol from a concealed holster position and fire five rounds at the target. You will then holster a safe weapon. You will repeat the string of fire twice at each distance, firing 10 rounds per station. You will also be required to show proficiency in changing magazines (reloading the firearm) in a safe manner.
The course is not timed, so focus on proper technique and safety. The goal is to get rounds on target, stay safe, and follow your instructor’s commands at all times.
You may qualify with any NJ-legal handgun and caliber you choose, as long as it’s a real firearm that you can safely draw from a holster and control during the course of fire. (Airsoft/BB guns don’t meet the CCARE live-fire standard).
If you don’t have your own handgun yet, using a rental is fine—the key is that you demonstrate safe handling and meet the scoring requirements with the gun you’re shooting.
Technically, you only have to qualify with one handgun to complete the training requirement. But here’s the smart move: qualify with every handgun you intend to carry. New Jersey requires you to list all handguns you plan to carry in your application, and if you add more later, you must submit the SP-182A “Additional Handguns Intended to be Carried” form to your issuing department.
Preparing for the CCW Class
Before signing up for your CCW class, confirm that you meet the following eligibility requirements, which include being:
- At least 21 years old
- A NJ resident
- Legally permitted to possess a firearm
Prior firearm experience is helpful but not required. You should also expect to learn key NJ gun laws, such as the duty to retreat and how to lawfully transport your firearm. You will also learn about sensitive places, which are locations where you cannot carry a concealed handgun.
How to Mentally and Physically Prepare
There aren’t any prerequisites required before your CCW class, other than lawfully owning a firearm. However, it’s recommended that you do some voluntary prep to get yourself mentally and physically ready.
Options include:
- Watching training videos
- Reading NJ firearm laws
- Visiting the range to practice fundamentals
- Taking a CCW Prep Class – This is the mod recommended one, and you can book one with this link: https://weshoot.life/CCW-PREP
You can also dry-fire practice at home. Dry firing is the process of repeatedly putting your firearm into battery and smoothly squeezing the trigger while the gun is unloaded. Triple-check that your firearm is unloaded by visually and physically inspecting the weapon to verify that there is no ammunition in it before dry-firing.
If you’ve never fired a handgun before and never had any formal training, it would be beneficial to take private lessons. You don’t want to inadvertently adopt bad shooting habits by trying to self-teach.
Book a 2hr private lesson here, it’s a great way to start this process, and see where you are standing. Link: https://weshoot.life/PrivateLessons
What To Bring to the Class
You’ll need the following for your CCW class:
- Your firearm (rental firearms are available)
- At least 50 rounds of ammunition (Ammo at discounted price available at range)
- Eye and ear protection (rentals are available)
- Your OWB (Outside the Waist Band) Holster (Universal holsters are available to rent at the range)
- Your Driver’s License & FID Card
- Notebook and pen (optional)
Pay close attention to the range’s instructions and rules. Some ranges ask you to bring additional ammunition so you can practice.
To speed things up, please complete your waivers online before you arrive. You’ll need to fill out:
- Range Rules & Waiver
- Training Waiver
- Gun Rental Qualification Form (only if you’ll be renting a firearm)
You can access everything here: https://weshootusa.com/waivers/
Safety Procedures and Best Practices
Safety is always the top priority during firearms training. It’s also a key point of the CCARE protocol.
Safety-related procedures you’ll cover in class include:
- Loading/unloading your firearm
- Finger discipline
- Muzzle awareness
- Safe range behavior
- Wearing eye and ear protection
Your instructor will also go over safe carry habits, such as how to draw and holster your handgun from a concealed position. Additionally, they will discuss how to avoid negligent discharges. A negligent discharge occurs when someone inadvertently fires a round from their weapon.
You’ll learn about maintenance and cleaning so you can keep your firearm in good working order. Your instructor will also discuss compliance with NJ firearm storage laws. One of the most important aspects of your class involves situational awareness, which is crucial for individuals who are carrying a concealed firearm.
Are you looking for a great learning environment to practice or take your CCW course? Check out WESHOOT and our indoor gun range.
Application Submission and Approval
Once you complete your class, you’ll need to use the Firearms Application & Registration System to submit your application and CCW course certificate.
You will have to provide the following documents:
- Proof of residency
- Government-issued ID
- SBI Number (5 numbers and a letter, found in your FID Card)
- Qualification certificate
- Four References
- Any additional documents requested
New Jersey has different options for residents, dual residents, and out-of-state residents. Regardless of which category you fall into, expect to wait several weeks to several months for your permit to be approved. Once you receive it, you are legally allowed to carry.
If your permit is denied, you will receive a letter explaining why. Depending on the reason, you may be able to appeal the denial.
Take Your CCW Class at WESHOOT
Before signing up for your CCW class in New Jersey, set yourself up for success. A little preparation will boost your confidence and help you get the most out of the course.
Remember, getting your permit is only the beginning. Be responsible, stay up-to-date on the latest New Jersey gun laws, and engage in continuous training to build your skills. Always prioritize safety so you can exercise your 2nd Amendment rights responsibly.
Start your journey off right with WESHOOT. Our experienced instructors offer private lessons, NJ-approved CCW courses, and ongoing training options.
Contact us to learn more or book your CCW class online today!
FAQ
What Should I Bring to My CCW Class in New Jersey?
Please come prepared with the following essentials:
- Valid Driver’s License and FID Card (you’ll need your SBI Number).
- The firearm(s) you plan to use for qualification, plus at least one additional magazine per firearm (revolvers must bring a speedloader).
- A quality OWB hip holster.
- A sturdy belt that properly supports your holster.
- At least 100 rounds of factory-made ammunition per handgun you plan to qualify with (caliber must match the firearm; FMJ is typically recommended).
- Hearing and eye protection. If you don’t have your own, we have options available to rent or purchase.
- Comfortable range-appropriate clothing — no open-toed shoes. Also bring a cover garment(jacket/hoodie/etc.) so you can practice clearing it during your draw.
- Any medications you may need during class (please plan ahead; class time may run longer than expected).
- A light lunch. Please avoid strong-smelling foods (e.g., tuna sandwiches).
Do I Need Prior Firearm Experience Before Taking a CCW Class in NJ?
Yes. While prior experience is not a legal requirement, we strongly encourage this class only for people who feel comfortable handling a firearm and have at least basic to intermediate shooting skills.
This isn’t just about passing a qualification—it’s about taking on the real responsibility of carrying in New Jersey. If you’re not there yet, that’s totally normal. We offer the right path to get you confident and ready first:
- Private Lessons: Master safe handling, fundamentals, and accuracy at your pace.
Book here: https://weshoot.life/PrivateLessons - CCW Prep Classes: A structured build-up to the CCW qualification and real-world carry skills.
Book here: https://weshoot.life/CCW-PREP
Come in prepared, leave confident, and make sure you’re truly ready for the responsibility.
How Long Does the NJ CCW Qualification Course Take?
The entire NJ CCW qualification course typically lasts five to six hours, depending on the format. This includes both the classroom portion and the live-fire qualification on the range. If you take a hybrid course, the classroom portion is typically completed online, meaning you’ll only spend one to two hours on-site for the live-fire portion.
If you find a class that is less than 4 hrs, please stay away from it, it is impossible to teach the required material and skills in less than 4 hrs. Remember, your training and your instructor could potentially be key elements of your defense if you ever have to go to court.
What Topics Are Covered in a New Jersey CCW Training Class?
The New Jersey CCW course covers use-of-force and basic legal requirements for concealed carry. Your instructor may address other topics, such as the duty to notify law enforcement when you are carrying concealed. It’s important to choose a comprehensive course that is administered by a reputable instructor.
How Can I Prepare for the NJ CCW Qualification Test?
The best way to prepare for your NJ CCW course is to book private lessons with a certified instructor. Some students may feel confident taking the CCW class after just one lesson. Others prefer to take a few lessons so they can practice their marksmanship skills.
To book a 2h Private lesson, use this link: https://weshoot.life/PrivateLessons
To book a CCW Prep course, use this link: https://weshoot.life/CCW-PREP
