North Carolina Concealed Carry FAQ

Who is able to get a concealed handgun permit?
To get a NC Concealed Handgun Permit you need to be a US citizen or permanent resident, a resident of North Carolina for at least 30 days and at least 21 years of age. You must also be able to legally own or possess  a firearm according to state and federal law. You must also have a “clean” record since a background check will be done by the FBI when actually applying for the permit itself.​
How does the permit process work?
​First, you must take and pass an approved NC Concealed Carry class from a duly certified instructor. Instinctive Advantage teaches the approved curriculum and your instructor, Our instructors are certified by the NC Department of Justice. When you complete the course, you will receive a certificate indicating that you have passed the written and the range. This certificate is then taken to the Sheriff's Office of the county in which you live. You will fill out the county's application, give them the completed application and your certificate, then they will take your fingerprints and you will pay them $90. If you are former military then you should bring a copy of your DD 214 for proof of your discharge status. You’ll then wait about 90 - 180 days until your permit is ready to pick up.
​How long does it take after applying for a permit to actually get it?
​This is dependent on the current load and the county in which you live. It might come back as soon as 30 days (but not likely) but in the worst of times it can take up to 3 months. You will then receive a letter from your sheriff telling you to either come down and pick up your permit or informing you the reason(s) why you were denied a permit.
How long is the permit good for?
​The NC Concealed Handgun Permit is valid for 5 years. At the end of the 5 years you choose to let it expire or go through the application process (have another background check done) to renew it.
What do I need to bring to the class?
​The biggest items are a good attitude and a willingness to learn! But you will also need a pen or pencil to write with during the class, and eye/ear protection for the range portion. And be well rested since it is a long day!
Do I need to bring my own handgun?
We would strongly suggest you bring your own gun but if you are new to all of this and do not have your own just yet, you can rent one of ours for $20 fee (All Inclusive add-on).
Do I need to bring ammunition as well?
Yes, you should bring at least 50 rounds of ammo for the shooting qualification. If you rent a gun from us then you’ll use our ammo. We DO NOT allow students to bring reloaded ammunition for either their own guns or for use in ours!
​Can I bring my firearm and/or into the classroom?
NO FIREARMS OR AMMUNITION is allowed in the classroom.
What kind of offenses on my record could be used to deny me a permit?There a number of offenses that will be checked for in your FBI background including:
  • any felony
  • violation of court orders
  • any firearm or weapons offense
  • impersonating an officer/fireman/emergency medical technician
  • communicating threats
  • stalking
  • fighting/violence/breach of peace
  • child abuse
  • domestic violence
  • awaiting trial for any of the above crimes
  • DWI/DUI within the last three years
  • dishonorable discharge from the armed forces
If any of these are found on your record then you will likely be denied a concealed handgun permit. NOTE:  this is not a complete list of offenses. You will need to go to the NC DOJ website for the entire list. Or read it directly from the statute itself (NCGS 14-415.12) and read paragraphs (b) and (c).
How long is the permit certificate good for?
​There is nothing in the NC state law that stipulates the length of time the certificate is valid for. This means it is up to the discretion of your sheriff so the time frame in which it will be honored can vary greatly. With this in mind we tell all of our students to take it to their sheriff AS SOON AS POSSIBLE! If you put it off it is VERY likely you will forget all about it or lose your certificate!
​So what must I do to pass the class?
​You’ll need to clear three hurdles, so to speak. The first is to pass the legal examination regarding what was taught in the class regarding the law (use of deadly force, justified self-defense and concealed carry statutes). The second and third hurdles are firearm safety and marksmanship while out on the range. You must safely use your handgun during the qualification and you must show proficiency in using it (loading, firing, unloading and clearing) while target shooting.
Can I share my handgun with someone else?
​Yes. If two or more of you are coming to the class but only have one gun you can share it among you shooting it on alternate rounds during the qualification.
​What is the range portion of the class like?
​Our range is located outdoors on private property so you’ll need to dress accordingly for the weather conditions the day of the class (heat/cold/fluids). The State mandates that you shoot a minimum of 30 rounds at three distances from the target (3/5/7 yards) proving that you can be both safe and proficient with your handgun.

We Would Love to Have You In One Of Our Classes Soon!