Steps to Obtaining a CCW

Steps to obtaining a CCW: There are some wacky stories in the news today!  A person cannot even go buy some milk without the risk of being shot.  I need to protect myself and my family from these nut jobs running around out there! 

                This is a common scenario that many people are echoing not just throughout the country, but even here in Lake County, Ohio.  One avenue people are taking to feel safer is to obtain a Carrying a Concealed Weapon (CCW) license under R.C. 2923.125.  Ohio House Bill 228, which took effect on March 28, 2019 made some changes to the CCW laws.  The bill included the statement “that it is proper for law-abiding people to protect themselves, their families, and others from intruders and attackers without fear of prosecution or civil action for acting in defense of themselves or others.”

                However, anyone that does desire to carry a concealed weapon must follow all criteria and carry in a manner consistent with the law.  To start, anyone seeking to carry a concealed weapon must obtain a license to carry in such a manner.

                The first step to obtaining a license is to show competency certification.  You can obtain a certificate of completion by taking a firearms safety course offered by a national gun advocacy organization.  Before signing up for just any random course, be certain that the course will provide a proper certificate.  If you are obtaining a license in Lake County Ohio, the Lake County Sheriff will be the one that determines if an organization qualifies to be able to issue a certificate.  There are other ways to show competency as well, for a complete list contact The Fortress Law Office to review all your options.

                Once you are able to demonstrate competency, you can begin the application process.  You must apply with the sheriff in the county where you reside or an adjoining county.  If you live in Willoughby, Ohio, the Lake County Sheriff’s office is located right in downtown Painesville, Ohio.  Be sure to call ahead to find out the hours during which applications are accepted.

There are special considerations if you are a member of the armed forces. For instance, you may still be considered an Ohio resident while on active duty orders.  Additionally, you may not need a CCW license depending on your firearms training and valid military ID.  Be sure to contact Fortress Law for more information regarding your status before carrying a concealed weapon.

As part of the application process, you must pass a federal background check.  There are many criminal offenses that may bar you from obtaining a license. Additionally, you cannot have had a CCW license suspended by another state nor can you be a user of any controlled substance. A dishonorable discharged from the armed forces or an adjudication as a delinquent child for domestic violence will also prevent you from obtaining a license.  For additional items that may prevent you from obtaining a CCW, be sure to contact Fortress Law or visit our office 4124 Erie Street Willoughby, OH 44094.

If you are denied a CCW license, the sheriff must provide the reason for denial in writing.  Depending on the reason for the denial, there may be avenues to appeal the denial.  All licenses expire five years after the issue date. If you wish to maintain your license, you must follow the renewal process.