Physical ID
Bring your current driver’s license. Digital versions are not accepted.
Live-fire qualification
Qualification instructions for students and instructors.
After your online course, schedule an in-person live-fire qualification. Non-Residents can qualify with a certified instructor near you; Riverside residents qualify with Riverside CCW Training. The same course of fire is used for initial and renewal students.
Course of fire
15, 10, and 7 yards
- 15 yards: draw from concealment and fire the string as directed. Recover, reload, reholster.
- 10 yards: repeat the string. Recover, reload, reholster.
- 7 yards: repeat the string.
- This is the Sheriff’s 15-, 10-, and 7-yard course of fire. It is repeated for each firearm you plan to list on your permit.
Qualification requirements
The Riverside County course of fire uses six rounds at each of 15, 10, and 7 yards — 18 rounds total. The course is untimed, and you get two chances to pass. Review these requirements with your qualifying instructor before you book.
Required equipment
What to bring
Firearms
In safe working order. Qualify with each firearm you want listed on your permit.
Holster and belt
A concealment holster of Kydex or quality leather that covers the trigger guard and keeps retention. No pocket holsters, belly bands, SERPA, clip-only, or sticky holsters. A sturdy carry belt is recommended. Ask before qualification day—no exceptions are made on the range.
Ammunition
Factory-new only. No steel-core, incendiary, or armor-piercing rounds. Hollow points are acceptable but not required. Ammunition is not provided.
Eye and ear protection
Bring your own. Hearing protection must still let you hear range commands; electronic protection is encouraged.
Clothing
Closed-toe shoes. No clothing that interferes with a safe draw. A hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes are recommended.
All equipment is inspected by the instructor or range master, who has the final say. Ask before qualification day if you are unsure about your gear.
For instructors
Suggested on-range format
- 01
Introduction
Instructor and student introductions, safety briefing with all firearms unloaded, range commands, and the course of fire.
- 02
Gear check
Firearms, ammunition, holster, belt, clothing, and protective equipment are inspected. Empty-gun draw demonstration for new students.
- 03
Prep
Load only 6 rounds per magazine, move to the 15-yard line, load, and safely reholster.
- 04
Firing
Draw and fire 6 rounds on command at each station, then reload and move to the next.
- 05
After action
Unload and show clear, debrief, then the instructor completes the online qualification form.
Qualification paperwork
After you pass, your instructor emails support@RiversideCCWOnline.com with your name to request access to the online qualification form, then records the firearms you qualified with. You and the instructor each receive a copy to keep; you upload it with your application. Students do not request form access.
Questions: support@RiversideCCWOnline.com
Out-of-state Non-Resident
For applicants who live outside California. Step order can vary—follow the requests and deadlines in your own application.
- 1
Complete the Non-Resident online course
Choose the Non-Resident initial or renewal course and receive your certificate of completion—no classroom travel needed for the online portion.
- 2
Qualify in person near you
Complete the live-fire qualification with a certified instructor near you. We can help you locate and schedule one, or you can qualify in California with Riverside CCW Training.
- 3
Submit your Sheriff application
Apply through the county’s online portal, upload your certificates and required documents when requested, and pay Sheriff fees directly to the county.
- 4
Interview and fingerprints
Non-Resident initial applicants may choose a virtual interview or arrange an in-person interview with the Sheriff, subject to available appointments. Submit fingerprints as instructed.
- 5
Permit decision
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office reviews your application and issues the permit.
Choose your course
Start with where you live.
Then choose initial or renewal.
$195normally $325
Riverside County Approved Course
Out-of-state Non-Resident
Initial course
Promotional online course tuition. Live-fire qualification and Sheriff fees are separate.
View course$195normally $325
Riverside County Approved Course
Riverside resident
Initial course
Promotional online course tuition. Live-fire qualification and Sheriff fees are separate.
View course$125normally $200
Riverside County Approved Course
Out-of-state Non-Resident
Renewal course
Promotional online course tuition. Live-fire qualification and Sheriff fees are separate.
View course$125normally $200
Riverside County Approved Course
Riverside resident
Renewal course
Promotional online course tuition. Live-fire qualification and Sheriff fees are separate.
View course