Stay legal, stay informed. Up-to-date for 2026.
Colorado's firearm laws have undergone massive changes in the last year. Ignorance of the law is not a defense. We cover everything you need to know to stay compliant as a gun owner in the Centennial State.
Key Legal Updates You Must Know
Concealed Carry Changes Effective July 1, 2025
The old 4-hour classes are no longer valid. State law now mandates an 8-hour in-person training requirement, including a written exam (80% pass rate required) and a live-fire qualification (50 rounds with 70% accuracy). Our classes are fully compliant with these new standards.
Mandatory Waiting Periods
There is now a 3-day waiting period for all firearm purchases. You cannot take your firearm home the same day you buy it. This applies to both private sales and purchases from licensed dealers.
Age Restrictions
You must be 21 years or older to purchase any firearm (handguns or rifles) in Colorado. This is an increase from the previous minimum age of 18 for long guns.
Background Check Expansion
Background checks are now required for all firearm transfers, including private sales between individuals. The only exceptions are transfers between immediate family members and certain temporary transfers for sporting purposes.
Extreme Risk Protection Orders
Family members or law enforcement can petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed to pose a risk to themselves or others. These orders can be issued without prior notice to the individual in emergency situations.
Critical AlertUpcoming Semiautomatic Ban (SB25-003)
Be aware that the manufacture and sale of many semiautomatic firearms will be prohibited starting August 1, 2026. If you plan to purchase a standard AR-15 or similar platform, you must do so before this deadline.
00 Days 00 Hours 00 Minutes 00 SecondsFrequently Asked Questions
What firearms are affected by the upcoming ban?The SB25-003 legislation primarily targets semiautomatic rifles with detachable magazines and certain features such as pistol grips, folding stocks, and flash suppressors. This includes most AR-15 and AK-style platforms, as well as some other semiautomatic rifles. The law also affects certain semiautomatic pistols with magazine capacities over 15 rounds.
Can I still own my existing firearms after the ban takes effect?Yes, the law is not retroactive. Firearms legally owned before the ban takes effect on August 1, 2026, can continue to be owned. However, there will be registration requirements for certain firearms, and transfers of these firearms will be prohibited except in limited circumstances (such as inheritance or transfers to immediate family members).
What are the requirements for the new 8-hour concealed carry class?The new law requires a minimum of 8 hours of in-person instruction, including both classroom and range time. Students must pass a written exam with at least 80% accuracy and complete a live-fire qualification shooting 50 rounds with at least 70% accuracy on a standard target. The course must also cover Colorado's specific gun laws, use of force, and de-escalation techniques.
Are there any exceptions to the 3-day waiting period?The waiting period applies to all firearm purchases with limited exceptions. Law enforcement officers, active military personnel, and those with concealed carry permits may be exempt from the waiting period in some circumstances. Additionally, the waiting period may be waived for firearm transfers between immediate family members.
Stay Informed and Compliant
Join our legal update seminar to get detailed information on Colorado's changing gun laws and how they affect you. Our experts will break down complex legislation into practical guidance for responsible gun owners.
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