People can legally carry in Kern County, but only with a concealed carry weapons (CCW) permit. Here’s how to get a CCW permit in Kern County.
To get a CCW in Kern County, individuals must complete an online application and provide a “Good Cause” for their permit. After approval, they must pass an online training course.
What Is a CCW Permit?
A CCW permit allows citizens to legally carry a firearm in California. Without a CCW, it is illegal to carry a firearm in public.
Why Get a CCW Permit?
A CCW Permit can allow an individual to defend themself. A CCW permit requires the completion of a safety course, which provides useful information on the proper ways to carry and utilize a firearm.
How to Apply for a CCW in Kern County
Related: How to Get a CCW Permit in California
1. Open the application
Kern Country uses an online application to apply for a CCW.
2. Complete the application
Before filling out the application, carefully read the instructions. When answering the questions, remain truthful, brief, and concise. The exclusion of any personal information is likely to result in a denial of the application.
The Kern County Sheriff will permit up to 10 handguns on one permit. California requires the qualification of each gun on a CCW permit (even if the guns are identical).
List all arrests even if there were no filed charges (include citations and misdemeanors).
3. Fill out the “Good Cause” statement
In Kern County, an applicant must provide a “good cause” to receive a permit. Do not copy another person’s good cause. Instead, draw from personal experience and circumstances to draft a statement.
Do not cite avoidable circumstances in a statement, as it mitigates the necessity of the firearm.
Some questions to consider when drafting the “Good Cause” statement are…
- Do you work in a remote area?
- Do you hire and fire employees?
- Do you carry expensive equipment for your employment?
- Do you have a physical disability preventing you from defending yourself?
- Do you have a restraining order?
- Have you been threatened (and filed a police report)?
- Do you hunt, fish, camp, etc?
Related: What is “Good Cause” for a CCW Permit in California?
4. Wait for approval
After submitting the online application, wait to hear from the Kern County Sheriff regarding CCW approval.
5. Take a CCW class
After receiving approval from Kern County an applicant must take a Concealed Carry Weapons class. The class will discuss responsible firearm usage.
Reasons for a Denial of a CCW in Kern County
1. Arrest record
If an applicant does not list an arrest, they are lying by omission. Remember, an arrest may be a citation for a misdemeanor charge.
2. Employer support
If work is the primary reason listed for the use of the weapon, an employer must have a letter attached to the application. If self-employed, attaching a Business License may help approval.
3. Good cause
In Kern County, an applicant must provide a “Good Cause” statement with their application for a CCW. Failure to list a “Good Cause” may result in the denial of the application.
4. Incomplete application
Any missing or incorrect information will likely result in the denial or delay of a CCW application in Kern County.
FAQs About Getting a CCW in Kern County
Can I carry an unloaded firearm without a CCW?
No, whether the firearm is loaded or unloaded, it is illegal to carry one in public.
Can I carry a concealed firearm in public without a CCW?
No, whether concealed or not, it is illegal to carry a firearm without a CCW permit.
Is the Second Amendment a “Good Cause”? In Kern County”
No, self-defense and the Second Amendment are not considered a “Good Cause” for receiving a CCW permit in Kern County.
Do I need to take the class before filling out my CCW application in Kern County?
No, Kern Country does not require, or recommend, an individual to take the class before submitting the online application for a CCW permit.
How long is a CCW class in Kern County?
California requires a CCW class to be at least 16 hours long. The class will end with a 20 question multiple-choice test. Students cannot get more than 5 questions wrong to pass the class.
Will Kern County refund my application cost if they deny my permit?
Yes, Kern County will refund the application cost if they deny an applicant a CCW permit.
How long will it take to hear back from Kern County after I submit my CCW application?
The Sheriff will usually take between 5-15 weeks to contact an applicant about the status of their CCW.
How long does a CCW last in Kern County?
A CCW permit will be valid for 2 years in Kern County.
How do I renew my CCW permit in Kern County?
Individuals must take a four-hour class to renew their CCW permit in Kern County within 60 days of expiration. The renewal class covers updates on the law, self-defense, and the moral implications of carrying a firearm.
Can you carry a firearm across state lines?
A US citizen may transport a firearm across state lines if they have a permit to possess the weapon in both states.
Related: CCW Permit in California: Where Can I Carry?
For additional questions, contact the Kern County’s Sheriff department at
(661) 391 7690
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If you or a loved one would like to know more about how to get a CCW permit in Kern County, get your free consultation with one of our attorneys today