California CCW permits must be renewed every two years. Renewal requires a refresher training course, updated Live Scan, and continued demonstration of good moral character. Permit holders have ongoing obligations including change-of-address notification and compliance with firearm listing requirements.
California CCW permits have a limited validity period and must be actively renewed to remain in effect. Penal Code Sections 26200 and 26220[1] govern the renewal process and ongoing obligations of permit holders.
Renewal Timeline
CCW permits in California are valid for two years from the date of issuance under Penal Code Sections 26150 and 26155.[1] You should begin the renewal process at least 90 days before your permit expires to ensure continuous coverage. If your permit lapses, you must reapply as a new applicant.
Renewal Training Requirements
Renewal applicants must complete a minimum of 8 hours of refresher training, which must include a live-fire proficiency qualification. Under SB 2[2], renewal training must cover updated legal standards, including the current sensitive-place restrictions and use-of-force law. This is especially important given the significant changes to enforcement following the Ninth Circuit's September 2024 ruling in May v. Bonta, which made 20 of 26 sensitive places categories enforceable. The training must be completed by a DOJ-certified instructor.
Renewal Background Check
A new Live Scan background check is required at renewal. The DOJ[3] processes the fingerprints and checks for any disqualifying events since the original issuance or last renewal. Any new criminal convictions, restraining orders, or mental health holds may result in denial of renewal.
Notification Obligations
CCW permit holders must promptly notify their issuing authority of:
- Change of residential address within the same jurisdiction
- Change of name
- Loss or theft of the permit
- Any arrest or criminal charge
- Any restraining order or GVRO issued against them
If you move to a different county, your existing permit remains valid until expiration, but you must apply through the new county's issuing authority for renewal.
Firearm Listing Requirements
California CCW permits list the specific firearms the holder is authorized to carry. Most issuing authorities allow up to three firearms on the permit. To add or remove a firearm, you must submit a modification request to your issuing authority. Any firearm listed must be registered to you in the Automated Firearms System (AFS).
Sensitive Places: Current Restrictions
Following the Ninth Circuit's ruling in May v. Bonta[4] (September 2024, mandate issued January 23, 2025), 20 of 26 SB 2 sensitive places categories are now enforceable. Permit holders are prohibited from carrying in government buildings, courthouses, schools, colleges, polling places, airports, law enforcement buildings, nuclear facilities, bars and restaurants serving alcohol, parks, playgrounds, athletic facilities, youth centers, state parks, casinos, stadiums, libraries, amusement parks, zoos, museums, and associated parking areas.
Six categories remain enjoined (carry is still permitted): hospitals, public transit, places of worship, financial institutions, permitted gatherings, and private commercial property (the default "opt-in" requirement is blocked).
Carrying in an enforceable sensitive place is a misdemeanor under Penal Code Section 26230(e) and may result in permit revocation. Monitor the DOJ's website and your issuing authority for updates, as the litigation is ongoing.
Permit Restrictions and Revocation
The issuing authority may impose restrictions on the permit and may revoke it at any time for good cause, including violation of any term or condition. Carrying in a designated sensitive place, carrying while intoxicated, or failing to maintain good moral character are grounds for revocation under Penal Code Section 26195.[5]