FIREARMS SAFETY PROGRAM

Beginning August 1, 2026, Colorado law requires individuals to complete an approved firearms safety course and obtain a Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card before purchasing or receiving certain semiautomatic firearms. This requirement applies to qualifying firearms acquired after the effective date and is part of the lawful purchase and transfer process in Colorado. 

What Is the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card?

• The Firearms Safety eligibility card is a state-issued credential confirming that an individual has successfully completed an approved, in-person firearms safety course that meets Colorado statutory requirements.
• The FSCEC must be issued before a qualifying semiautomatic firearm may be purchased or transferred. Firearms lawfully owned prior to August 1, 2026 are not affected.

Firearms Safety Training Requirement To obtain an FSCEC, applicants must complete an approved firearms training course, which includes:

• In-person instruction only (online-only courses do not qualify)
• Safe firearm handling and operation
• Secure storage and transportation practices
• Legal responsibilities related to firearm ownership
• Successful completion of a final exam
• The course must be completed before a qualifying firearm purchase or transfer can occur.

Course requirements:

• Must be taught in person
• Instructor must be verified by a Sheriff
• Minimum passing score of 90% on the final exam
• Firearms safety courses are valid for 5 years

Why This Matters:

• Effective August 1, 2026, Colorado requires a Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card (FSCEC) prior to the purchase or transfer of specified semiautomatic firearms. This requirement applies regardless of prior ownership or experience and must be completed before a transfer can occur.
• Completing the required training in advance ensures compliance with state law and reduces the likelihood of delays or failed transactions at the point of sale.​

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*If course is not listed on calendar, please contact us directly to schedule.

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FAQs
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1. What is the Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card (FSCEC)?
The Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card (FSCEC) is a state-issued credential confirming that an applicant has completed an approved, in-person firearms safety course required by Colorado law. The card is required before the purchase or transfer of certain specified semiautomatic firearms and is recorded in the state’s Firearms Safety System database.
2. When does the FSCEC requirement take effect?
The FSCEC requirement takes effect on August 1, 2026. Any qualifying firearm purchase or transfer occurring on or after that date must comply with the FSCEC requirement, regardless of when the firearm was manufactured or how long the applicant has owned firearms previously.
3. Who is required to obtain an FSCEC?
Any individual who intends to purchase or receive a specified semiautomatic firearm in Colorado after August 1, 2026 must obtain an FSCEC prior to the transfer. This applies to first-time buyers and experienced firearm owners alike, provided the firearm meets the statutory definition.
4. Does the FSCEC requirement apply to firearms I already own?
No. The FSCEC requirement applies only to future purchases and transfers. Firearms lawfully owned prior to August 1, 2026 may continue to be possessed without obtaining an FSCEC, provided all other laws are followed.
5. What types of firearms require an FSCEC?
The requirement generally applies to semiautomatic rifles, semiautomatic shotguns, and gas-operated semiautomatic handguns that use detachable magazines. The determination is based on how the firearm operates and its magazine configuration, not its appearance or accessories.
6. Are any firearms exempt from the FSCEC requirement?
Yes. Manually operated firearms (such as bolt-action, pump-action, or lever-action firearms), most rimfire firearms, firearms with permanently affixed magazines within legal limits, and certain antique or curio and relic firearms are not subject to the FSCEC requirement.
7. Can the FSCEC requirement be satisfied with an online firearms course?
No. Colorado law requires that the firearms safety course be completed in person with the instructor physically present. Online-only or virtual instruction does not qualify for FSCEC issuance.
8. Does a Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) replace the FSCEC requirement?
No. A Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit does not automatically satisfy the FSCEC requirement. The FSCEC is a separate credential tied specifically to the purchase or transfer of specified semiautomatic firearms, while the CHP relates to lawful concealed carry of a handgun.
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