California CCW Renewal in 2026: What Changed and How to Renew on Time

By Ray Alipanah, California DOJ-certified CCW instructor, POST-certified law enforcement instructor and NRA Training Counselor. Updated October 2026.

Renewing a California CCW used to be routine. In 2026, two changes make timing matter more: new fingerprints are now required with renewals, and at least one agency (LAPD) has stopped accepting late renewals past a set window. Here's what's changed and how to renew without a gap.

The statewide basics

Under Penal Code 26165(d), a renewal requires at least 8 hours of training in a course your licensing agency accepts. The course must meet the same content standards as the initial course, including the mental health component, a written exam and live fire with each firearm on your license.

New in 2026: Live Scan at every renewal

Both the Riverside County Sheriff's Office and LAPD state that starting September 1, 2026, renewal applicants must submit new fingerprints. Budget the Live Scan fee and the time to get it done; it's no longer optional.

Riverside County renewals

• Start about six months before your permit expires.
• Complete the renewal application and the Sheriff's Questionnaire; additional documents may be requested.
• Take an 8-hour renewal course from an approved vendor and requalify with each firearm.

LAPD renewals

• Start 90 days before your license expires. The fee is $25 plus Permitium fees, and there's no interview.
• Your 8-hour training must be completed before expiration and dated no more than six months before it.
• Since January 1, 2026, LAPD won't accept a renewal more than 90 days after expiration; you'll need a new application.
• Proof of residency is one utility bill or a notarized lease; vehicle registrations aren't accepted.
• Licenses issued after January 1, 2027 are valid for three years.

A simple renewal timeline

1. Six months out: check your expiration date and your agency's rules. Riverside applicants start the application.
2. Three months out: LAPD applicants start their renewal. Book your 8-hour class.
3. As soon as your agency allows: complete the new Live Scan.
4. Before expiration: finish training and upload your certificate.

Want help with the paperwork? Our CCW Prep session covers renewals too.

Frequently asked questions

How many hours is a California CCW renewal course?

At least 8 hours, with the same core content as the initial course, a written exam and live fire.

Do I need new fingerprints to renew?

Yes. Starting September 1, 2026, both Riverside County and LAPD require a new Live Scan with every renewal application.

What if my LAPD license already expired?

LAPD accepts renewals up to 90 days after expiration. Since January 1, 2026, after that you must file a new application.

Can I take my renewal class early?

For LAPD, training can't be dated more than six months before your expiration. Check your agency's window before booking.

This article is general information, not legal advice. Agency rules change; always confirm current requirements with your issuing agency. The issuing agency alone decides who receives a license.