CCW Applications and General Information

Before applying for a concealed carry license, please read through the information offered on this site. It will assist you in the accurate and successful completion of your CCW application.

If you are ready to apply for a new CCW, renew an existing CCW, modify an existing CCW, or request a duplicate license.

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CCW REQUIREMENTS

CCW INITIAL APPLICATION PROCESS

CCW RENEWAL APPLICATION PROCESS

CCW MODIFICATIONS

REQUESTING A DUPLICATE LICENSE

TERMS OF LICENSE

APPLICABLE WEAPON LAWS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

OUT-OF STATE CCW APPLICATION INFORMATION

MENDOCINO COUNTY SHERIFF APPROVED CCW VENDORS

PROCEDURE TO BECOME AN APPROVED CCW INSTRUCTOR

Retired Deputy LEOSA Qualification Information

Introduction

The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office is dedicated in providing the residents of Mendocino County with relevant and timely information regarding the services the department offers.

This site is designed to give general information and specifics on requirements regarding the application process for a carry concealed weapon (CCW) license issued by the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office for those citizens who reside within Mendocino County.

Before applying for a concealed carry license, please read through the information offered on this site. It will assist you in the accurate, timely, and successful completion of your CCW application.

The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office does not recommend individual CCW instructors. It is the responsibility of each applicant to research and evaluate the prospective instructors offered to determine their suitability.

The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office approved instructor list only consists of individuals and entities who have met the minimum statutory requirements for firearms training and who agree to instruct the minimum concealed weapons course training content pursuant to Penal Code Section 26165. The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office does not endorse the training styles, methodologies, facilities, or techniques used by instructors to meet the minimum course requirements.

Vendor opinions, advice, statements, services, offers, or other information expressed are not those of the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office, but are those of the respective vendors.

Any compliments or complaints about the CCW vendor course curriculum, conduct, methodologies or other content should be directed to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office at:

951 Low Gap Road
Ukiah, CA 95482

707-234-2041

ccw@mendocinosheriff.org

If you are ready to apply for a new CCW, renew an existing CCW, modify an existing CCW, or request a duplicate license.


CCW REQUIREMENTS

California law requires carry concealed weapon license applicants to satisfy specific criteria prior to being considered for issuance of a license. The requirements are as follows: (26150 PC)

  • Residency: All applicants must provide proof that they are a resident of the County of Mendocino. Non-residents will be referred to the appropriate licensing agency.
  • Training: The applicant must complete and show proof of successful completion from a Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office approved Concealed Carry Course containing modules on safety, the law, and the applicant’s ability to handle a firearm safely. The course shall be a minimum of 16 hours for the initial application, and 8 hours for renewals. The training certificate will be valid for six months from the date of issue.
  • Good Character: Applicants must not be a disqualified person to receive such a license, as determined in accordance with the standards set forth in Penal Code section 26202 .

State and local laws do not prohibit an adult from having a concealed weapon in their home or place of business.

*** DISCLAIMER *** Per the Supreme Court’s ruling in New York Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, requiring an applicant to establish ‘good cause’ to get a carry permit is unconstitutional. To comply with the ruling, we will no longer enforce this requirement or require applicants to demonstrate good cause to qualify for a license to carry a firearm.


CCW INITIAL APPLICATION PROCESS

Total $302.00
$93.00 paid to the California Department of Justice
$205.00 paid to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office
$4.00 paid to Permitium

In order to apply for a CCW license, you must: (26150 PC)

  • Be a full-time resident of Mendocino County.
  • Be at least 21 years of age.
  • Completely and accurately fill out a NEW concealed carry weapon license application that will include substantial personal information. Much of the information in the application may be subject to public access under the Public Records Act.
  • Be free of criminal convictions that would disqualify you from carrying a concealed weapon. Fingerprints will be required, and a complete criminal background check will be conducted.
  • No alcohol or drug conviction within five years of application. 26202(a)(7) PC
  • Not be a disqualified person as per 26202 PC
  • Pay all associated application fees. These fees are set by statute and will not be refunded if the application is denied.
  • Any firearm you would like listed on your CCW must be recorded in your name through the California Department Of Justice. Please make sure this is taken care of BEFORE you apply for a CCW. (26162 PC) By creating a no cost CFARS account through the California Department Of Justice you will be able to check the registration status of your firearms to ensure the firearm is registered to you before submitting your CCW application. Link: https://cfars.doj.ca.gov/cfars-home-guest
  • AR Pistols and similar handguns are not permitted
  • The handgun, magazines, and ammunition must comply with applicable CA State and Federal laws
  • Be free of any medical and psychological conditions that might make you unsuitable for carrying a concealed weapon. Applicant may be required to submit to a psychological assessment (26202(1) PC / 26190(e)(2) PC)
  • Complete a 16-hour department approved Firearms Safety Course.

Applications for a NEW carry concealed weapons license must be completed online at Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office Online Concealed Weapon Permit Application (permitium.com).

When completing your application be prepared to scan and attach a copy of the following documents to your application:

  • Proof of completion of a 16-hour Firearms Safety Course and qualification with all weapons that you intend to place on the CCW license.
  • A color copy of your current California Driver’s License or Identification Card.
    • If you have a “Federal Limits Apply” drivers license or identification card, you must also supply one of the following;
      • Valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card
      • Certified copy of U.S. birth certificate
      • U.S. Certificate or Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a U.S. Citizen
      • Certified copy of birth certificate from U.S. Territory
      • Certificate of Naturalization or U.S. Citizenship
      • Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card
  • A current photograph that is not the photograph on your driver’s license or ID.
  • Two (2) proofs of residency. Accepted Proofs of residency are any one of the following combinations;
    • (2) Utility Bills (PG&E, Water/Sewer, Trash Collection, or Internet/Cable), or
    • (1) Utility Bill and (1) Auto and/or Home Insurance policy declaration, or Voter Registration, or
    • (1) Current rental agreement and (1) Auto/Home Insurance policy declaration, or Voter Registration.

If your application is incomplete, you will be notified and provided direction on what steps must be taken to complete your application. If your application is not corrected within 30-days from the notification, your application will be automatically withdrawn.

Note: The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office requires all applicants applying for an initial CCW license to submit to an interview. You will be prompted during the application process to select an interview date. When selecting your interview date, ensure the chosen interview location falls within the area convenient to you (Ukiah, Willits, or Fort Bragg).


CCW RENEWAL APPLICATION PROCESS

Total $162.00
$93.00 paid to the California Department of Justice
$40.00 paid for fingerprint rolling (Live Scan)
$25.00 paid to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office
$4.00 paid to Permitium

Important Notice for CCW Renewal Applicants

Effective September 1, 2026, California law requires new fingerprints for all concealed carry weapon (CCW) renewals. Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 26185, any CCW renewal applications submitted to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) on or after September 1, 2026, must include fingerprints captured through Live Scan.

In order to renew your CCW license, you must:

  • Be a resident of Mendocino County per 21650 PC.
  • Possess a current CCW license issued by the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office.
  • Complete a department approved 8-hour Updated Firearms Safety Course within six months of application submission.
  • Completely and accurately fill-out a RENEW concealed carry weapon license application.
  • Be free of criminal convictions that would disqualify you from carrying a concealed weapon. Fingerprints will be required beginning September 2026, and a background check will be conducted. 26150(a)(1) / 26202 PC
  • Any firearm you would like listed on your CCW must be recorded in your name through the California Department Of Justice.  Please make sure this is taken care of BEFORE you apply for a CCW. (26162 PC) By creating a no cost CFARS account through the California Department Of Justice you will be able to check the registration status of your firearms to ensure the firearm is registered to you before submitting your CCW application. Link:  https://cfars.doj.ca.gov/cfars-home-guest
  • AR Pistols and similar handguns are not permitted
  • The handgun, magazines, and ammunition must comply with applicable CA State and Federal laws

Applications for a RENEW carry concealed weapons license must be completed online at Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office Online Concealed Weapon Permit Application (permitium.com).

When completing your application be prepared to scan and attach a copy of the following documents to your application:

  • Proof of completion of an 8-hour Updated Firearms Safety Course and qualification with all weapons that you intend to place on the CCW license, by one of our approved CCW training venders.
  • A color copy of your current California Driver’s License or Identification Card.
    • If you have a “Federal Limits Apply” drivers license or identification card, you must also supply one of the following;
      • Valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card
      • Certified copy of U.S. birth certificate
      • U.S. Certificate or Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a U.S. Citizen
      • Certified copy of birth certificate from U.S. Territory
      • Certificate of Naturalization or U.S. Citizenship
      • Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card
  • A current photograph that is not the photograph on your driver’s license or ID.
  • Two (2) proofs of residency. Accepted Proofs of residency are any one of the following combinations;
    • (2) Utility Bills (PG&E, Water/Sewer, Trash Collection, or Internet/Cable), or
    • (1) Utility Bill and (1) Auto and/or Home Insurance policy declaration, or Voter Registration, or
    • (1) Current rental agreement and (1) Auto/Home Insurance policy declaration, or Voter Registration.

If your application is incomplete, you will be notified and provided direction on what steps must be taken to complete your application. If your application is not corrected within 30-days from the notification, your application will be automatically withdrawn.

NOTE: You are required to renew your license every two years. If your license has been expired for more than 90 days, you will not qualify for the Renewal Process, you will need to complete the Initial Application Process. Do not apply for a renewal license until 90-days or less of the expiration date on your previous/current CCW license.


CCW MODIFICATIONS

Total: $14.00
$10.00 paid to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office
$4.00 paid to Permitium

In order to make a change to your CCW license you must;

  • Completely and accurately fill-out a MODIFY an existing concealed carry weapon license application.

Applications for a MODIFY an existing carry concealed weapons license must be completed online at Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office Online Concealed Weapon Permit Application (permitium.com).

When completing your application be prepared to scan and attach a copy of the following documents to your application (when applicable):

  • When adding a weapon, proof of completion of training and qualification with the weapon(s) through a department-approved CCW Vendor must be submitted. Verify ALL weapons are listed on the new modification, and the applicant is the recorded owner of the firearm with the DOJ. 26150(a)(5) PC
  • For a change of address, two (2) proofs of residency must be submitted. Accepted Proofs of residency are any one of the following combinations;
    • (2) Utility Bills (PG&E, Water/Sewer, Trash Collection, or Internet/Cable), or
    • (1) Utility Bill and (1) Auto and/or Home Insurance policy declaration, or Voter Registration, or
    • (1) Current rental agreement and (1) Auto/Home Insurance policy declaration, or Voter Registration.

NOTE: Your CCW license is only valid for the weapons listed thereon. You have 10 days to notify the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office of any change in your place of residence.


REQUESTING A DUPLICATE LICENSE

Total: $14.00
$10.00 paid to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office
$4.00 paid to Permitium

In order to request a duplicate of your CCW license you must;

  • Completely and accurately fill-out a REQUEST A DUPLICATE of an existing concealed carry weapon license application.

Applications for a REQUEST A DUPLICATE carry concealed weapons license must be completed online at Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office Online Concealed Weapon Permit Application (permitium.com).

NOTE: An amendment to a concealed carry license does not extend the original expiration date of the license and an application to amend a concealed carry license does not constitute an application for renewal of the license.


TERMS OF LICENSE

Terms of the License: The licensee agrees to abide by the following terms when carrying a concealed weapon. Failure to do so shall result in the immediate suspension of the CCW license. Any violation of any of the restrictions and conditions may result in the immediate revocation of the license. 26200 PC

  • The license will not be valid outside the state of California. However, some states may recognize a California CCW or do not require a CCW. You are responsible for checking with any law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the area(s) you intend to travel to determine those CCW requirements.
  • The licensee is personally responsible for knowing and complying with the law and any liability they may incur. The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office will not accept any liability for your actions.
  • The license will be subject to any and all reasonable restrictions or conditions the Sheriff has deemed warranted, including restrictions as to the time, place, manner and circumstances under which the person may carry the concealed firearm.
  • The license shall bear the expiration date, type of weapon, restrictions and other pertinent information clearly visible. Each license shall be numbered and clearly identify the licensee.
  • The license or licensed weapon shall be subjected to inspection at any time by the Sheriff or any law enforcement officer.
  • The CCW firearms shall be registered to the licensee through the DOJ.
  • The license will be valid for a period not to exceed two years from the date of issuance.
  • The licensee shall notify this department in writing within ten days of any change of place of residency. If the licensee moves out of the county of issuance, the license shall expire ninety (90) days after the licensee has moved. The licensee will email Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office, ccw@mendocinosheriff.org, with any change of residency.
  • Should the licensee display or utilize the concealed weapon for which the permit has been issued, or become named in restraining order, or have ANY other law enforcement contact of any type; the licensee will notify this agency by calling 707-463-4086 and by email within five (5) calendar days from the initial date of the incident and outline the circumstances. The email title must be titled “CCW Incident Reporting”.

License Restrictions: The Sheriff may place special restrictions limiting time, place, and circumstances under which any license shall be valid. These general restrictions prohibit any licensee from doing any of the following: 26200 PC

  • Consuming, and/or being under the influence of any alcohol, any medication or drug while armed.
  • Falsely representing themselves as a peace officer, or taking any law enforcement action in crimes to which they are not directly involved.
  • Permit is not valid for private security employment.
  • Unjustified or unreasonable displaying of a weapon or the license.
  • Interfering with any law enforcement officer’s duties, or refusing to surrender their license or concealed weapon for inspection upon demand of any peace officer, or failing to notify any peace officer that they are armed during a law enforcement contact.

Expectations of Conduct: Licensee agrees to conduct themselves in an ethical manner at all times. Licensee must not engage in criminal, dishonest, disgraceful conduct, or any other conduct deemed by the Sheriff to violate the Sheriff’s reasonable expectations of sound judgment and good moral conduct.


APPLICABLE WEAPON LAWS

All applicants applying for a CCW license and all CCW license holders should be familiar with information found in the following California Penal Code sections.
§171b – Firearm within State or Local Public Building
§171d – Firearm within Governors’ Residence
§171.5 – Firearm within Airport
§171.7 – Firearm within Public Transit Facility
§626.9 – Firearm within “Gun Free Safety Zone Act of 1995”
§25100 – Criminal Storage of Firearm
§25610 – Firearm Transportation
§25850 – Loaded Firearm in Public
§25140 – Firearm in Unattended Vehicle
§25612 – Firearm in Unattended Vehicle
§26200 – Restrictions or Conditions


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A CCW license is generally valid for a period of two, three, or four years, depending on the type of license issued, before it expires or is renewed.

Beginning January 1, 2027, standard CCW licenses issued pursuant to Penal Code sections 26150 and 26155 will be valid for a period of three years. Judicial CCW licenses are also authorized for a period of three years.

The length of time a CCW license is valid is established by California law, and there is no provision allowing the Sheriff’s Office to extend the expiration date of an individual CCW license.

For questions, please contact the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office at 707-234-2041.

No. A person wishing to renew a current CCW license must reapply with the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office within 90 days of expiration. A renewal reminder may be sent to your listed Permitium email address in your current application.

An applicant needs to provide a state driver’s license or ID card, or government-issued ID card. In addition, applicants will need to provide proof of completion of a departmentally approved Firearms Safety Course (16-hour for initial applicants and 8-hour for renewal) dated within the previous six months, as well as proof of qualification with all firearms that are intended to be added to the CCW. Proof of successful completion of a training course will only be required after determining the applicant is not disqualified for issuance of the permit. 26202 PC

 

An individual applicant’s particular situation might necessitate additional documentation depending upon his or her circumstances. The Sheriff’s Office will inform the applicant which additional documents (If any) will be needed prior to or after interviewing the applicant. At a minimum, additional documents may include a birth certificate or other proof of lawful alien residency in the U.S., utility bills, and military discharge form (DD 214) if applicable.

An applicant must be at least 21 years old before applying for a CCW license from the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office.

No. Normally, a CCW License issued by the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office is not valid outside the state of California. However, some states may recognize a California CCW or do not require a CCW. You must check with the law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the area(s) you intend to travel to determine if a CCW is necessary.

Applicants are only required to pay for a Firearms Safety Course after determining the applicant is not a disqualified person by the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office. However, applicants may choose to complete a Firearms Safety Course prior to the application process. The Firearms Safety Course Certificate is good for six months from the date of issuance.

If you purchased your firearm(s) through a California gun dealer, it is likely the firearm is registered to you, but it is not a guarantee. The best way to ensure your firearm(s) is registered to you is by creating a California Firearms Application Reporting System (CFARS) account through the Department Of Justice at https://cfars.doj.ca.gov/cfars-home-guest This is a no cost account.

Firearms Safety Course certificates are valid for six months from the date of issuance by our vendor.

If your CCW has expired for more than 90 days and your completed application has not been submitted, you will be required to complete a New Initial Application.

Beginning September 1, 2026, all new and renewal CCW applicants will be required to be fingerprinted to comply with the state requirements. We highly recommend starting the renewal process as soon as possible (90 days prior to expiration of your current license) starting September 1, 2026 to avoid any possible delays caused by the new state requirement. 26185(b)(2) PC

The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office adheres to both California and Federal laws regarding the issuance of CCW permits and the restrictions that apply to applicants. While California legalized the responsible adult use of marijuana through Proposition 64 in 2016 and medicinal use under the Compassionate Use Act of 1996 (Proposition 215), marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under Federal law. According to federal statute 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3), individuals who use or are addicted to any controlled substance, including marijuana, are considered prohibited persons, and are therefore restricted from obtaining a CCW permit.

As a result of this federal regulation, the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office is unable to grant a CCW license to individuals who have used marijuana in the year preceding their application. All applicants are required to confirm that they have not consumed marijuana for the 365 days prior to applying and must commit to abstaining from marijuana use for the entire duration of their CCW permit.


OUT-OF STATE CCW APPLICATION INFORMATION

NOTICE – PLEASE READ CAREFULLY: Failure to comply with any section of these instructions may result in delays in processing your application. It is your responsibility to know California firearms laws and what you are legally allowed to possess and carry within the State of California.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • The applicant is not a disqualified person to receive the license, as determined in accordance with the standards set forth in Section 26202 and all comparable statutes and provisions of law of the nonresident applicant’s state of residence.
  • The applicant is at least 21 years of age and presents clear evidence of the nonresident’s identity, age, and state of residence. “Clear evidence of the nonresident’s identity, age, and state of residence” means either of the following:
    • A valid driver’s license from their state of residence.
    • A valid out-of-state identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles.
  • The applicant attests, under oath, that the jurisdiction in which they have applied is the primary location in California in which they intend to travel or spend time.
  • The applicant has completed a course of training that meets the criteria set forth in paragraphs (1) to (5), inclusive, of subdivision (a) of Section 26165 and subdivision (d) of Section 26165, as it pertains to the licensing authority to which the application is submitted. If the licensing authority to which the application is submitted has not approved of any online training courses, the applicant may complete an online training course approved by any other licensing authority that issues licenses under this section.
  • The applicant has completed live-fire shooting exercises, as required by paragraph (6) of subdivision (a) of Section 26165, for each pistol, revolver, or other firearm for which the applicant is applying to be licensed to carry in California. The applicant shall inform the licensing authority to which they have applied of the live-fire course the applicant intends to complete, and the licensing authority shall either approve the course or suggest an alternative acceptable course within 75 miles of the applicant’s residence.
  • The applicant has identified on the application the make, model, caliber, and serial number of each pistol, revolver, or other firearm for which the applicant is applying to be licensed to carry in California. Identification of a pistol, revolver, or other firearm that cannot lawfully be carried or possessed in California shall be cause for denial of a license as to that pistol, revolver, or other firearm.

Complete the Online Application:

Submit the State Standard Application online at : https://mendocinoso.permitium.com/ccw/start

Required Documents for Submission:

Along with your application, please provide the following documents:

  • A valid state driver’s license or state-issued ID
    • If you have a “Federal Limits Apply” drivers license or identification card, you must also supply one of the following;
      • Valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card
      • Certified copy of U.S. birth certificate
      • U.S. Certificate or Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a U.S. Citizen
      • Certified copy of birth certificate from U.S. Territory
      • Certificate of Naturalization or U.S. Citizenship
      • Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card
  • A digital passport-style photo (see specific photo requirements below)
  • A signed affidavit confirming your intention to visit Mendocino County within the next 12 months
  • Proof of current address, only if different from the address on your driver’s license(choose one):
    • A current resident CCW from your state/jurisdiction
    • Two (2) consecutive service provider statements dated within the last 90 days. Accepted service providers include:
      • Gas/Electric
      • Water
      • Garbage
      • Home Internet
      • Cable/Satellite
      • Home Phone
      • Credit Card
      • Bank Account

Application Submission and Appointment Scheduling:

After obtaining all necessary documents, complete the online application and schedule your appointment. Interviews are held virtually, and a link will be provided to you prior to your interview date. Ensure you are logged in on time – late arrivals may result in the interview being rescheduled at the investigator’s discretion.

Virtual Interview Requirements:

  • Your camera must be on for the duration of the interview.
  • Your face should be visible, with no masks or filters covering it.
  • Distractions during the interview may result in a warning; repeated distractions may lead to rescheduling.

Initial Application Review:

After your interview, the first review of your application will be completed. You will be notified of the results via email within 90 days of the interview.

  • If Contingently Approved: You will be instructed to complete the fingerprinting with your state’s fingerprint authority.
  • If Denied: A denial email will be sent, outlining the reasons for denial and providing information on your right to appeal.

LIVESCAN, APPLICABLE FEES, AND BACKGROUND CHECK

LiveScan/Fingerprinting Instructions:

After contingent approval, you will be instructed to schedule a fingerprinting appointment. Non-resident applicants may submit their fingerprints on an FBI Form FD-258 fingerprint card.

  • Non-resident applicants should seek out fingerprinting services in their area, such as local law enforcement agencies or local live scan providers in the applicant’s state of residence, as many of them may provide hard card fingerprinting.
  • If a non-resident applicant elects to have the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office conduct their LiveScan fingerprinting, the standard rolling fee will be collected at the time of the LiveScan.
  • Non-resident applicant’s local law enforcement agency will supply the FBI Form FD-258 fingerprint card. The card must be on cardstock to avoid processing issues.
  • The Non-resident applicant will complete each required field on the FBI Form FD-258 by typing or legibly printing using blue or black ink. If the fields are not legible or not complete, it may be rejected.
  • The required fields for FBI Form FD-258 are: Name, Originating Agency Identifier (ORI), Agency Name and Address, Date of Birth, Place of Birth, Sex, Miscellaneous No. (must provide Driver’s License or Identification Number), Signature of Person Fingerprinted, Signature of Official Taking Fingerprints, date fingerprinted, reason fingerprinted (list CCW Applicant Type: Standard and the type of license: Concealed Weapon License), and proper completion of fingerprint impression boxes.
  • Once complete, Non-resident applicants must mail the completed FBI Form FD-258 to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office for review. Once received, the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office will ensure it is legible and all required fields have been completed. The fingerprint cards will then be mailed to the California Department of Justice for processing. California DOJ will send the fingerprint results to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office once completed.

Fees:

You will pay your fees online via the Online CCW Application program. The cost covers a percentage of the local administrative fees, fingerprint fees, and the required State fee. The license type and associated fees are listed below:

  • Standard (2-year) License: $302.00 total ($4.00 Permitium administrative fee, $205 agency processing fee, and $93.00 state fingerprint processing fee)

Final Payment:

After completing the application process, the remaining administrative fee is due upon issuance of the CCW license. This amount is the remaining local administrative fees.

Fees are non-refundable. (Fees are reassessed every year and are subject to change as allowed by law)

Background Check:

Upon receipt of your documentation from the California DOJ and FBI, a local criminal history check will be conducted. Your file will then be reviewed by the sheriff.

Notification:

Once all required responses are received, you will be notified via email. If approved, instructions for training will follow. If denied, you will be informed of your right to appeal.

WEAPONS, RANGE QUALIFICATIONS, AND TRAINING

Weapon Listing:

Mendocino County allows CCW holders to list up to three (3) weapons on their permit. The weapon shall be the product of a recognized manufacturer, free from mechanical and other flaws, within tolerances determined by the manufacturer’s specifications, and in good working order.

  • Weapons approved shall be either a revolver or semi-automatic with an ammunition capacity of no more than 10 rounds, as per state law restricting import of “large capacity” magazines into California. (California Penal Code section 32310)
  • Laser sights, night sights, and red dot (RDS) sights are permitted.
  • “AR/AK Pistol” platforms and similar handgun styles are not prohibited.
  • California law prohibits “short-barreled shotguns”, as a result, revolvers chambered to accept shotgun shells are prohibited by law (California Penal Code section 17180).
  • A maximum of three weapons are allowed on a CCW permit. Effective January 1, 2024, you may only legally carry 2 CCW firearms at a time.

Training Requirement:

California law requires all CCW applicants to attend a firearms safety class and qualify with their weapon(s) under the supervision of a qualified range master. Our approved online vendor for out-of-state residents is California Online CCW Califirniaonlineccw.com NONRESIDENT.

Submission of Training Proof:

Do not submit training certificates prior to approval. Training and qualification must be completed and dated within 90 days of receiving approval.

Submission of Documents:

Proof of training and qualification must be submitted via the “Order Tracker” feature on Permitium.

Approved Training Facilities:

Only the approved training facilities listed on our website are recognized for CCW qualification. Training from other facilities will not be accepted—no exceptions. The list of currently approved CCW instructors (including online instruction) for our agency can be found on our website. The in-person firearms qualification shall be conducted by your local law enforcement agency’s certified firearms instructor or a National Rifle Association (NRA)-Law Enforcement Instructor or Basics of Personal Protection Outside the Home Instructor. Basics of Personal Protection Outside the Home Instructors must additionally be both an NRA Certified Pistol Instructor and Personal Protection in the Home Instructor. A copy of the firearms instructor certification shall be included with your submission of documents.

FINAL REVIEW

Final Review by the Sheriff:

After the submission of your training and qualification certificates, the sheriff will conduct a final review.

Approval:

If approved, your CCW license will be generated and signed by the sheriff.

Possible Restrictions:

The sheriff may impose restrictions on the license, such as limitations on time, place, manner, and circumstances under which the licensee may carry a weapon, which will be noted on your CCW permit.

Issuance of License:

Your CCW license will be mailed, via certified letter, to the address on file.

Denial:

If your application is denied after this review, you will be notified in writing and informed of your right to appeal.

Further questions regarding the application process can be sent to Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office by email.

Photo Requirements for Digital Submission

  • Dimensions: At least 600 x 600 pixels, with ample space around your head and shoulders for cropping.
  • Color: Must be a color photo (no black and white).
  • Format: JPEG file format.
  • Size: Between 54 KB and 10 MB.
  • Compression: Use the highest quality camera settings to ensure high resolution. Do not alter or edit the photo.

Acceptable Example: A plain off-white background with no shadows or distractions.

Appeal Process

If your application is denied at any stage, you may appeal the decision through the court system. The necessary information will be provided to you at the time of denial.


MENDOCINO COUNTY SHERIFF APPROVED CCW VENDORS

The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office will only accept certificates of instruction from instructors that the Sheriff has personally approved.

Bigfoot Firearm Training
Telephone: (844) 926-6566
Email: info@bigfootaa.com
Website: www.BigfootFirearmsTraining.com
Instructors: Aaron Ostrom & Cole Greene

David Goodman
Telephone: (707) 485-2481
Email: team@mendoccw.com
Website: www.mendoccw.com
Online Classes Available

Kim Milani
Telephone: (707) 272-4656
Email: kim@milaniccw.com
Website: www.milaniccw.com
Online Classes Available

Bob Nishiyama
Telephone: (415) 519-3647
Email: nish99@prodigy.net
Website:

Edward Davies
Telephone: (707) 357-1581
Email: edsguns@mcn.org
Website: www.redwoodpracticalshooters.com

Marco A. Innocenti
Telephone: (415) 306-2670
Email: marco.innocenti576@gmail.com
Website: www.redwoodpracticalshooters.com

Updated July 2025


PROCEDURE TO BECOME AN APPROVED CCW INSTRUCTOR

Instructors wishing to be added to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office list of Approved CCW Instructors must submit the following for review by the Sheriff:

  • Must provide a list of all relevant training and copies of certificates that qualify you to be an instructor for CCW classes.
  • Acceptable certification include California POST Firearms Instructor or Rangemaster, BSIS, Authorization from a State of California accredited school to teach a firearm training course.
  • Must include certification for any instructors employed by you.
  • Must provide a color copy of a California Driver License for all instructors.
  • Must provide a copy of your business license.
  • May provide any letters of reference.
  • Must provide a detailed syllabus of the material you intend to cover for the 16-hour initial CCW and the 8-hour CCW renewal class. The outline must minimally include: 26155 PC
    • Firearm safety and safe storage
    • Firearm handling
    • Shooting techniques
    • Laws regarding the permissible use of a firearm
    • Range safety plan
    • Mental Health and Mental Health Resources (1 hour)
  • Forward the above information by email for review. The email title must be “To CCW Licensing Unit”.
  • Following review of your submitted information you will be contacted by a Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office representative. If you have been accepted, you will be scheduled for a DOJ live scan appointment.
  • Following your DOJ live scan, the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office will provide you with additional documentation and qualification forms and confirm the contact information you want listed on the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office website as an Approved CCW Instructor.
  • Approved instructors will be placed on a two year list. At the end of the two year period the training provider will be required to resubmit the certification packet for review.
  • Approved training providers are subject to review by the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office at any time.
  • The Department may require approved training providers to submit additional information and materials to verify compliance with minimum standards.
  • Any time the Department determines an approved training provider is out of compliance with minimum standards, the training provider will be removed from the approved list. Training providers who have been removed from the list may reapply.

Retired Deputy LEOSA Qualification Information

The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office conducts LEOSA qualification ranges twice annually, typically in April and October, in Ukiah.

Retired law enforcement officers requiring annual LEOSA qualification should email using the form below for information regarding scheduled dates and times.

Retired deputies of this agency requiring a replacement identification card should contact the Professional Standards Bureau at (707) 463-4411 for further assistance.


Contact us for CCW