General Eligibility 

Applicants must: 

• be a resident of this state or a United States citizen; 
• be 21 years of age or older; or at least 19 years of age with evidence of current military service or proof of honorable discharge or general discharge; under honorable conditions from the United States Armed Forces, United States Armed Forces Reserve, or a state National Guard; All Veterans must provide DD-214. 
• not be under indictment for a felony offense; 
• not be convicted of a felony offense, unless the conviction has been expunged, set aside, vacated, or pardoned, or the individual right to possess firearms has been restored, and must not be a prohibited possessor under state or federal law; 
• not suffer from mental illness, and/or been adjudicated mentally incompetent, or committed to a mental institution; 
• not be unlawfully present in the United States; 
• complete a firearms safety training program pursuant to A.R.S. § 13-3112(N). 

Please note: Persons who were born outside of the United States or one of its territories, must send a copy of proof of citizenship or alien status, and provide an Alien Registration Number, if available.  Any of the following documents are acceptable: 

• Certificate of Naturalization 
• Resident Alien Card
• Record of Birth Abroad to U.S. citizens 
• Record of Birth Abroad to Armed Forces Personnel
• U.S. Passport 

Applications containing errors or incomplete information will be returned to the applicant for correction. 

Please allow 75 days for the Department's CWPU to process your application.  If you have not received your permit or notification after 75 days, please contact the CWPU. 

 Email A CWPU Team Member

Once you have received your permit, please inspect it for any errors.  If you find an error, return the permit along with a completed copy of a "Profile Change Request Form" available under the Applications and Forms tab. 

It is state and federally mandated to deny a concealed weapons permit to any applicant who is considered a prohibited possessor under the following:

State Prohibitions

A.R.S. § 13-3101(7) "Prohibited possessor" means any person: 

1. Who has been found to constitute a danger to self or others or to have a persistent or acute disability or grave disability pursuant to a court order under section 36-540, and whose right to possess a firearm has not been restored pursuant to section 13-925. 
2. Who has been convicted within or without this state of a felony or who has been adjudicated delinquent for a felony and whose civil right to possess or carry a firearm has not been restored. 
3. Who is at the time of possession serving a term of imprisonment in any correctional facility or detention facility.  
4. Who is at the time of possession serving a term of probation pursuant to a conviction for domestic violence offense as defined in section 13-3601 or a felony offense, parole, community supervision, work furlough, home arrest or release on any other basis or who is serving a term of probation or parole pursuant to the interstate compact under title 31, chapter 2, article 4.1. 
5. Who is an undocumented alien or a nonimmigrant alien traveling with or without documentation in this state for business or pleasure or who is studying in this state and who maintains a foreign residence abroad.  This subdivision does not apply to: 
   1. Nonimmigrant aliens who possess a valid hunting license or permit that is lawfully issued by a state in the United States. 
   2. Nonimmigrant aliens who enter the United States to participate in a competitive target shooting event or to display firearms at a sports or hunting trade show that is sponsored by a national, state, or local firearms trade organization devoted to the competitive use or other sporting use of firearms. 
   3. Certain diplomats. 
   4. Officials of foreign governments or distinguished foreign visitors who are designated by the United States Department of State. 
   5. Persons who have received a waiver from the United States Attorney General. 
6. Who have been found incompetent pursuant to rule 11, Arizona Rules of Criminal Procedure, and who subsequently has not been found competent. 
7. Who is found guilty except insane. 

Federal Prohibitions

18 U.S.C. § 922(g) states, "it shall be unlawful for any person - 

1. Who has been convicted in any court of, a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year; 
2. Who is a fugitive from justice; 
3. Who is an unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance (as defined in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802)); 
4. Who has been adjudicated as a mental defective or who has been committed to a mental institution; 
5. Who, being an alien - 
   1. is illegally or unlawfully in the United States; or 
   2. except as provided in subsection (y)(2), has been admitted to the United States under a nonimmigrant visa (as that term is defined in section 101(a)(26) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(26)); 
6. Who has been discharged from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions; 
7. Who, having been a citizen of the United States, has renounced his citizenship; 
8. Who is subject to a court order that - 
   1. was issued after a hearing of which such person received actual notice, and at which such person had an opportunity to participate; 
   2. restrains such person from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner of such person or child of such intimate partner or person, or engaging in other conduct that would place an intimate partner in a reasonable fear of bodily injury to the partner or child;
   3. and, 
      1. includes a finding that such person represents a credible threat to the physical safety of such intimate partner or child; or 
      2. by its terms explicably prohibits the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force against such intimate partner or child that would reasonably be expected to cause bodily injury; or 
9. Who has been convicted in any court of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence

to ship or transport in interstate or foreign commerce, or possess in or affecting commerce, any firearm or ammunition; or to receive any firearm or ammunition which has been shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce. 

Overview 

The Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004 was unanimously passed by the United States Senate on July 7, 2004, and authorizes qualified active and retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms, exempting them from certain local and state restrictions. 

In accordance with Arizona Revised Statute (A.R.S.) § 13-3112(T), the Arizona Department of Public Safety's (AZDPS) Concealed Weapons Permit Unit (CWPU) is responsible for the issuance of LEOSA certificates of firearms proficiency to qualified applicants who meet the requirements set forth in 18 United States Code (U.S.C.) sections 926B and 926C.  

Arizona Certificate of Firearms Proficiency

Retirement or separated officers must complete a qualifications exam with the firearm they intend to carry, including a judgmental shooting evaluation, to be eligible for a Certificate of Firearms Proficiency. 

Qualifications must be administered by an Arizona Peace Officer Standard and Training (AZPOST) Board certified firearms instructor or a National Rifle Association (NRA) instructor approved by the Department's CWPU.  Active-duty officers may carry a firearm with law enforcement credentials without this certificate.   

Application and Documentation for a Certificate of Firearms Proficiency

To apply for a Certificate of Firearms Proficiency, applicants must submit the following: 

1. A completed LEOSA application signed by the qualifying instructor. 
2. A copy of the applicant's photo identification credentials issued by their agency. 
3. A letter from the employing agency, on official letterhead, detailing the applicant's name, badge number, employment dates, and separation status (honorable, in good standing, etc.).  The letter must also provide contact information for an agency representative who can verify the provided information is accurate. 
4. The application fee is payable via cashier's check, certified check, money order, or credit card (if applying online or in person).  Checks should be made payable to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.  Personal and business checks are not accepted. 
5. If born outside of the United States, or one of its territories, you must submit one of the following: 
   1. A record of birth abroad to an American citizen; 
   2. A record of birth to Armed Forces personnel; 
   3. A United States Passport; or 
   4. A Certificate of Naturalization. 

LEOSA certificates are valid for one (1) year from the application date.  Renewing a certificate follows a similar process with the exception that agency letters and photocopies of the photo ID are not required, unless the certificate has expired.  

Documents

Download the LEOSA Sample Letter 

Read the NRA's letter to instructors and training counselors regarding the use of the NRA's name, titles, and trademarks for online firearms training courses. 

LEOSA Eligibility

Due to the language of the federal law, each state is required to follow state police officer firearms certification requirements.  In Arizona, the AZPOST rules apply.  

LEOSA instructors must meet the following prerequisites: 

• Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training (AZPOST) Board rules. 
• Applicants must be active, retired, or reserve AZPOST-certified firearms instructors or a qualified NRA instructor. 
• All instructors must be approved by the AZDPS Concealed Weapons Permit Unit (CWPU).  

Additional details and applications are available under the Applications and Fees tab.  

For information on shooting requirements, please visit the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training (AZPOST) Board website.  The AZPOST offers comprehensive guidelines and requirements for firearms qualifications.  This resource is designated to help both current and retired law enforcement officers understand the specific qualifications necessary for carrying firearms under LEOSA.  

   Find a LEOSA Instructor Here   

Frequently Asked Questions

I want to apply for an Arizona Concealed Weapons Permit.  What should I do? 

Begin by reviewing the Arizona concealed carry law A.R.S. § 13-3112, as well as A.R.S. § 13-3101, 18 U.S.C. § 922(d) and (g), and A.R.S. § 13-3102 (Misconduct Involving Weapons) for complete eligibility criteria. 

How do I apply for a permit? 

We recommend you apply online by visiting the Public Services Portal.  Downloadable applications and instructions can be found under the Application and Fees tab. 

May I deliver my application to the CWPU? 

Yes.  Applications can be delivered to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, Public Services Center, located at 2222 W. Encanto Boulevard in Phoenix, AZ.  Our office is open between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding state and federal holidays.  

Where can I get my fingerprints taken? 

There are two options for fingerprinting: 

1. Electronic fingerprints can be obtained by visiting a FieldPrint kiosk.  After you've submitted your permit application online, you will be required to schedule an appointment to have your fingerprints taken.  Once the fingerprints have been submitted, the CWPU will process your permit application.  
2. You may contact your local police department, sheriff's office, or a third-party fingerprint provider.  Per state law, you must submit two (2) fingerprint cards with your application and all boxes on the fingerprint card must be completed.  DO NOT bend or fold your fingerprint cards as it may alter your prints and result in a fingerprint rejection.  

My application for a permit was not approved due to information found within my criminal history.  What do I do now? 

Applicants who are denied a permit will receive a denial letter from the CWPU.  If you have official court documentation showing your charge(s) were dismissed and/or your rights to possess a firearm have been restored, submit the documentation to the CWPU within the timeframe given within the denial letter.  

If you do not have official court documents, you must contact the respective court or prosecutor's office that decided on your case and obtain official documentation.  All documents should be shared with the CWPU for review and processing.  

If you have reason to believe the information on your criminal history record is inaccurate, you may request a review of your record by contacting the AZDPS Central State Repository Section at (602) 223-2222.  

Can I pay my application fee with a personal check? 

We do not accept personal or business checks.  Acceptable forms of payment include money orders, cashier's checks, or credit card (if paying in person or online).  Checks shall be made payable to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.  

Is the application fee refundable if I do not qualify or am denied for a CCW permit? 

We do not offer refunds if you do not qualify or are denied.  

I've received my permit, but it contains an error.  How should I report this? 

Please complete a Permit Card or Profile Change Request form and a replacement form will be generated and mailed to you.  Downloadable forms can also be found under the Application and Fees tab. 

My permit has been lost or stolen.  How do I receive a replacement permit? 

Please complete a Permit Card or Profile Change Request form and a replacement form will be generated and mailed to you.  Downloadable forms can also be found under the Application and Fees tab.  

I have not received my permit.  How do I report this? 

Please visit the Contact Us tab to reach a CWPU representative. 

Can my spouse/family member/friend inquire about the status of my permit? 

Pursuant to A.R.S. § 13-3112(J), the CWPU cannot share permit information with anyone other than the applicant/permit holder. 

I am moving to Arizona.  Is my concealed weapon permit from my former state of residence transferable? 

While the out-of-state permit is not transferable, you may be able to use it as proof of firearms competence when applying for an Arizona permit.  Please contact the CWPU for additional information. 

I do not live in Arizona.  Can I still apply for an Arizona concealed weapons permit? 

Yes! Please visit the General Eligibility and Laws tab for additional information.   

Reciprocity and Recognition Agreements

Arizona and any political subdivision of Arizona shall recognize a concealed weapon, firearm or handgun permit or license that is issued by another state, or a political subdivision of another if both of the following exist: 

1. The permit or license is recognized as valid in the issuing state; 
2. The permit or license holder is all of the following: 
   1. Legally present in this state, 
   2. Not legally prohibited from possessing a firearm in this state. 

For the purpose of establishing mutual permit or license recognition with other states, the Arizona Department of Public Safety shall enter into a written agreement if another state requires a written agreement.  Arizona concealed weapons permit holders wishing to carry their permit while visiting another state are responsible for contacting that state to ensure reciprocity.  

Reciprocal Agreements - As of May 28, 2024	Written Agreement with Arizona	Recognizes Arizona without Written Agreement	Does NOT Recognize Arizona Permits
Alabama	-	​​	-
Alaska	​​	-	-
Arkansas	​​	-	-
California	-	-	​​
Colorado	-	​​	-
Connecticut	-	-	​​
Delaware	-	​​	-
Florida	-	​​	-
Georgia	-	​​	-
Hawaii	-	-	​​
Idaho	​​	-	-
Illinois	-	-	​​
Indiana	-	​​	-
Iowa	-	​​	-
Kansas	-	​​	-
Kentucky	-	​​	-
Louisiana	-	​​	-
Maine	-	​​	-
Maryland	-	-	​​
Massachusetts	-	-	​​
Michigan	-	​​	-
Minnesota	-	-	​​
Mississippi	-	​​	-
Missouri	-	​​	-
Montana	-	​​	-
Nebraska	-	​​	-
Nevada	-	​​	-
New Hampshire	-	​​	-
New Jersey	-	-	​​
New Mexico	-	​​	-
New York	-	-	​​
North Carolina	-	​​	-
North Dakota	-	​​	-
Ohio	​​	-	-
Oklahoma	-	​​	-
Oregon	-	-	​​
Pennsylvania	​​	-	-
Rhode Island	-	-	​​
South Carolina	-	​​	-
South Dakota	​​	-	-
Tennessee	-	​​	-
Texas	​​	-	-
Utah	-	​​	-
Vermont	-	-	​​
Virginia	-	​​	-
Washington	-	-	​​
West Virginia	​​	-	-
Wisconsin	-	​​	-
Wyoming	-	​​	-

Please note: It is the responsibility of each permit holder to be aware of the CCW requirements and law of all reciprocating/recognizing states.  An Arizona concealed weapons permit does not supersede any other state laws or CCW requirements.  If you are an Arizona permit holder traveling to another state and wish to carry a concealed weapon, contact that state directly to confirm their recognition status before carrying concealed weapons. 

Expired Concealed Weapons Permit

• To renew a concealed weapons permit, the permit holder shall complete a CCW Renewal Application which can be found under the "Applications and Fees" tab, at least 60 days prior to permit expiration, or immediately following the receipt of the "Notice of Renewal" letter from the CWPU which is sent 60 days prior to expiration.  
• Renewal applications received 61 days after expiration will be returned to the permit holder and a new CCW Application will be required to be submitted along with the corresponding fee of $60.00. 
• If an expired permit issued by the CWPU is presented as proof that the individual has demonstrated competence with a firearm, the 'permit' presented must be in good standing to be eligible as proof.  Revoked or suspended permits will not be considered. 

Payment Information

The application fee is payable via cashier's check, certified check, money order, or credit card (if applying online or in person).  Checks should be made payable to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.  Personal and business checks are not accepted. 

Self-Surrendered Permits 

Persons who are no longer interested in maintaining a concealed weapons permit may self-surrender their permit. 

Please note: Once a permit is surrendered, it may not be reinstated.  If, after surrendering a permit you wish to obtain a concealed weapons permit, you will be required to apply for a new concealed weapons permit.  

To self-surrender: 

1. Complete the CCW Self-Surrender form which can be located below or under the "Applications and Fees" tab. 
2. Attach the permit card to the form in the designated area. 
3. Mail the completed form and permit card to the address listed on the form.  

Contact Us

Please contact us using any of the methods listed below: 

Visit the Public Services Portal for Assistance with all of your Concealed Weapons Permit Needs

  Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.  We are closed on all state and federal holidays. 

  Email: [email protected]

  Phone: 

Metro Phoenix: (602) 256-6280
Outside Metro Phoenix (In Arizona): (800) 256-6280

  Mail:
Concealed Weapons Permit Unit
P.O. Box 6488 | Mail Drop 3170
Phoenix, AZ 85005

  Physical Address:
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Public Services Center
2222 W. Encanto Boulevard
Phoenix, AZ 85009