Louisiana Concealed Handgun Permit Course
Overview
This course is designed to meet the handgun-competency training requirement for an initial Louisiana concealed handgun permit application. It combines classroom instruction (USCCA Concealed Carry & Home Defense Fundamentals curriculum) with a live-fire qualification on the range. Students who complete the course receive a certificate of completion to submit with their permit application.
Louisiana training requirements
Louisiana law (La. R.S. 40:1379.3(D)) requires every permit applicant to demonstrate competence with a handgun. The State Police rule for approved courses (LAC 55:I.1311) requires at least nine hours of instruction:
1 hour — handgun nomenclature and safe handling of revolvers and semi-automatic pistols
1 hour — ammunition knowledge and fundamentals of pistol shooting
1 hour — handgun shooting positions
3 hours — use of deadly force and conflict resolution, including a review of La. R.S. 14:18 through 14:22
1 hour — child access prevention
2 hours — live range fire and proper handgun cleaning
The live-fire qualification requires 36 rounds — 12 rounds each at 6, 10, and 15 feet — with at least one safe reload at each distance and 100 percent hits within the silhouette of an NRA B-27 type target. Training must be completed within the twelve months before you apply.
The permit application itself is submitted to the Louisiana State Police; State Police set the eligibility rules and fees. Completing this course does not by itself grant a permit.
Why get a permit now that Louisiana has permitless carry?
Since July 4, 2024, Louisiana law allows a person 18 or older who is not prohibited from possessing a firearm to carry a concealed handgun in Louisiana without a permit. A Louisiana permit still matters for several reasons:
Carrying in other states. Many states honor a Louisiana permit; permitless carry status does not travel with you. The Louisiana State Police publish the current reciprocity list.
Training. The permit course covers Louisiana use-of-force law, firearm-free locations, and safe handling — the same rules apply whether or not you hold a permit.
Lifetime option. Louisiana offers five-year and lifetime permits (lifetime holders must complete refresher training every five years).
Restricted locations (such as schools, courthouses, and polling places) apply to both permit holders and permitless carriers.
Who it's for
First-time permit applicants
New and experienced shooters who want structured training in Louisiana law and safe handling
Anyone who wants a permit for carrying in reciprocal states
What you'll learn
Developing a personal and home protection plan
Self-defense firearms basics and handgun selection
Shooting fundamentals and handgun operation
Gear and equipment
The legal use of force under Louisiana law
Violent encounters and the aftermath, including physiological reactions
Child access prevention and safe storage
Live-fire qualification to the Louisiana standard
What to bring
Handgun (or use one of the instructor's — see below)
Minimum of 36 rounds of ammunition for the pistol you plan to qualify with
Extra magazines
Close-toed shoes
Provided: loaner handgun/revolver, eye and ear protection, speed loader, lunch, pen and notebook, targets. Don't own a pistol yet? Instructor pistols are available to try.
Duration: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM — 7 hours classroom + 2 hours range