Proof of Competency

Handgun Competency Requirement


Applicants may complete the proof of competency requirement by the following:
  • Completing any hunter education or hunter safety course approved by the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries or a similar agency of another state
  • Completing any National Rifle Association firearms safety or training course
  • Completing any firearms safety, training course, or class available to the general public offered by a law-enforcement agency, junior college, college, private or public institution, organization, or firearms training school utilizing instructors certified by the National Rifle Association or the Department of Criminal Justice Services
  • Completing any law-enforcement firearms safety, training course, or class offered for security guards, investigators, special deputies, or any division or subdivision of law enforcement or security enforcement
  • Presenting evidence of equivalent experience with firearms through participation in organized shooting competition, current military service, or proof of an honorable discharge from any branch of the armed services
  • Obtaining or previously having held a license to carry a firearm in this commonwealth or a locality thereof, unless such license has been revoked for cause
  • Completing any firearms training, safety course, or class (including electronic, video, or on-line courses) conducted by a state-certified or National Rifle Association certified firearms instructor
  • Completing any governmental, police agency firearms training course and qualifying to carry a firearm in the course of normal police duties
  • Completing any other firearms training that the court deems adequate

Proof of Completion


One of the following must be provided as proof of completion:
  • Affidavit from the instructor, school, club, organization, or group that conducted or taught such course or class attesting to the completion of the course or class by the applicant
  • Copy of any document which shows completion of the course or class or evidences participation in firearms competition
  • Photocopy of a certificate of completion of any of the courses or classes