How to Get an LAPD CCW License in 2026

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

LAPD issues concealed carry licenses to City of Los Angeles residents, and its process has a few rules that catch people off guard. The biggest one: you take your training after LAPD approves you, and you have 90 days to finish it. Here's how the process works in 2026, based on LAPD's published requirements.

Who is eligible

• You're at least 21 and a City of Los Angeles resident, with proof of residency.
• You own at least one concealable firearm.
• You aren't a "disqualified person" under Penal Code 26202. LAPD notes that unlawful or reckless use, display or brandishing of a firearm can disqualify you even without an arrest or conviction.

"Good cause" is no longer required.

Step 1: Email the CCW Unit

New applicants email LAPD's CCW Unit with their name, Los Angeles address, phone number and firearm details. If you appear eligible, LAPD sends a link to its Permitium portal, where you complete the application and upload documents.

Step 2: Application, fees and Live Scan

As of October 2026, LAPD lists these fees for a new license: $268 plus Permitium fees, with $53 due at application and $215 due on approval. Live Scan is paid separately to the vendor.

LAPD accepts only its own Live Scan form (BCIA 8016), and the details on it must be exact: the applicant type, license type, mail code and your driver license or ID number. An error means a second scan, another fee and a delay. Our CCW Prep session covers the form line by line.

Step 3: Approval, then training within 90 days

When LAPD approves your application, it sends an approval notice. Training must be completed within 90 days of that letter or the application is withdrawn. It must come from a provider on LAPD's authorized training list and include:

• A 16-hour initial course (8 hours for renewals) covering safety, handling, shooting technique and lawful use of force.
• Live fire with each firearm you list, to LAPD's shooting proficiency standards.

You can list up to three firearms, each registered or DROS'd to you. Registered assault weapons aren't allowed. Every gun must appear on your training certificate.

Step 4: Upload your certificate and get your license

Upload your signed training certificate to Permitium. LAPD says processing takes two to four weeks and Permitium doesn't send a confirmation. Approved, trained applicants receive their cards by mail on the 1st and 15th of each month.

LAPD renewals in 2026

• Start 90 days before your license expires. Renewal is $25 plus Permitium fees, with no interview.
• Since January 1, 2026, if your license lapses more than 90 days, you must file a new application.
• As of September 1, 2026, renewals require a new Live Scan with an LAPD ATI number.
• Your 8-hour renewal training must be completed before expiration and dated no more than six months before it.

More detail is in our 2026 CCW renewal guide. Ready to book? See our LAPD CCW classes.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to live in the City of Los Angeles?

Yes, for a new LAPD license you must be a City of Los Angeles resident. Residents of other LA County cities usually apply to their city police department or the Sheriff.

When should I take my CCW class for LAPD?

After you receive LAPD's approval notice. Training must be completed within 90 days of that letter, from a provider on LAPD's authorized list.

How many guns can I list?

Up to three, each registered or DROS'd to you, and each must be on your training certificate.

How long is an LAPD CCW valid?

LAPD says licenses issued after January 1, 2027 are valid for three years.

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.