How to Get a Concealed Carry in Long Beach

Obtaining a concealed carry permit in Long Beach, California, is a significant responsibility that grants lawful access to carrying a hidden firearm for personal protection. Unlike states with “shall issue” policies, California operates under a “may issue” framework, meaning local law enforcement agencies—such as the Long Beach Police Department—have broad discretion in approving or denying applications. This makes the process more rigorous, nuanced, and highly dependent on demonstrating “good cause” beyond general self-defense. For residents of Long Beach seeking to legally carry a concealed weapon, understanding the full scope of requirements, documentation, training, and local procedures is essential. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to navigate the concealed carry application process in Long Beach, including best practices, tools, real-world examples, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Confirm Eligibility Under California Law

Before beginning the application process, you must verify that you meet all state-mandated eligibility criteria. California Penal Code § 26150 outlines the baseline qualifications for a concealed carry weapon (CCW) license. To be eligible, you must:

• Be at least 21 years of age
• Be a legal resident of the United States
• Be a resident of Long Beach or have a primary place of employment or business in the city
• Not have been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors (including domestic violence, assault, or drug offenses)
• Not be subject to a restraining order or protective order
• Not have been involuntarily committed to a mental health facility under Welfare and Institutions Code § 5150
• Not be addicted to narcotics or any controlled substance
• Not have been found by a court to be a danger to yourself or others

Failure to meet any of these criteria will result in an automatic denial. Even minor infractions, such as a past misdemeanor for public intoxication or a dismissed but recorded domestic disturbance, can trigger additional scrutiny. It is strongly recommended that applicants review their criminal history through the California Department of Justice (DOJ) background check portal prior to applying.

2. Complete a State-Approved Firearms Safety Course

California law requires all CCW applicants to complete a certified firearms safety training course. The course must be at least 16 hours in duration and cover:

• Safe handling and storage of firearms
• California firearms laws and regulations
• Use of force and legal responsibilities
• Conflict de-escalation techniques
• Live-fire shooting proficiency (minimum 30 rounds fired under supervision)

Approved instructors and courses must be certified by the California Department of Justice. You can search for approved providers on the DOJ’s website or through local ranges such as Long Beach Gun Club, Desert Shield Training, or Southern California Firearms Academy. Upon completion, you will receive a certificate that must be submitted with your application. Keep in mind: the certificate is valid for two years, so ensure your course was completed within this window.

3. Gather Required Documentation

Prepare the following documents in advance to avoid delays:

• Valid California driver’s license or state-issued ID
• Proof of Long Beach residency (utility bill, lease agreement, or property tax statement dated within the last 60 days)
• Proof of employment or business in Long Beach (pay stub, business license, or employer letter if you do not reside in the city)
• Original firearms safety course certificate
• Two recent passport-style photographs (2x2 inches, white background)
• Completed CCW application form (available at the Long Beach Police Department’s Firearms Unit)

Do not submit photocopies of documents unless explicitly requested. The Long Beach Police Department requires original or certified copies for verification. If you are applying based on employment, ensure your employer’s letter includes your job title, company name, address in Long Beach, and signature from a supervisor.

4. Submit Your Application in Person

Applications for concealed carry permits in Long Beach must be submitted in person at the Long Beach Police Department’s Firearms Unit, located at 100 West Broadway, Long Beach, CA 90802. Walk-in hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., but appointments are strongly encouraged. You can schedule an appointment by calling (562) 570-7370 or visiting the department’s official website.

At the time of submission, you will be fingerprinted on-site using the Live Scan system. The fingerprinting fee is approximately $49 and is non-refundable. You will also be required to pay a non-refundable application fee, which as of 2024 is $100 for initial applications. Additional fees may apply for renewal or re-issuance.

During your appointment, a background investigator will conduct an initial review of your documents and may ask clarifying questions about your reasons for seeking a concealed carry permit. Be prepared to articulate your need clearly and calmly.

5. Demonstrate “Good Cause”

This is the most critical and subjective component of the Long Beach CCW process. California law requires applicants to show “good cause” for carrying a concealed firearm. The term is not defined in statute, leaving interpretation to the discretion of the issuing authority—in this case, the Chief of Police or their designee.

General self-defense claims, such as “I feel unsafe walking to my car” or “There are crime rates in my neighborhood,” are typically insufficient. The Long Beach Police Department has historically granted permits based on documented, specific threats or circumstances, such as:

• Being the target of credible, documented threats (e.g., restraining orders, police reports, or stalking incidents)
• Working in a high-risk occupation (e.g., jewelry store employee, pawn shop operator, taxi driver in high-crime zones, or security personnel)
• Transporting large sums of cash or valuables as part of your job
• Having a history of being attacked or robbed
• Residing in an area with documented, elevated violent crime rates and having received prior threats

Applicants who work in high-risk professions should provide letters from employers verifying the nature of their duties and the associated risks. Those claiming personal threat should submit police reports, court documents, or correspondence from law enforcement indicating the threat was taken seriously. The more specific, documented, and verifiable your evidence, the higher your chances of approval.

6. Undergo a Background Investigation

After submission, your application enters a 45–90 day review period. During this time, a background investigator from the Long Beach Police Department will:

• Verify all submitted documents
• Conduct interviews with references you provide (usually two personal references)
• Review your criminal history, mental health records, and any prior interactions with law enforcement
• Check for outstanding warrants or pending charges
• Visit your residence to verify residency and assess home security measures

The investigator may also contact your employer, neighbors, or landlords. It is critical that your references are reliable, law-abiding individuals who can vouch for your character and responsibility. Avoid listing friends or family members with criminal records or who are known to be unreliable.

7. Receive Notification and Complete Training

If your application is conditionally approved, you will be notified by mail or phone. At this stage, you may be required to attend a mandatory firearms proficiency test administered by the Long Beach Police Department. This test typically includes:

• Firing 20 rounds from 3 yards, 7 yards, and 10 yards at a standard B-27 target
• Demonstrating safe weapon handling, including drawing from concealment, reloading, and clearing malfunctions
• Answering questions about California’s use-of-force laws

You must achieve a minimum score of 70% to pass. If you fail, you may be given one opportunity to retake the test after additional training.

8. Receive Your Permit and Understand Restrictions

Upon successful completion of all steps, you will be issued a concealed carry permit valid for two years. The permit will specify the make, model, and serial number of the firearm(s) you are authorized to carry. You may carry only the firearm(s) listed on your permit. Adding or replacing a firearm requires a formal amendment request.

Permit holders must also comply with all California restrictions on concealed carry, including prohibitions on carrying in:

• Schools and school grounds
• Government buildings (courthouses, city halls, DMVs)
• Bars and establishments where alcohol is the primary business
• Public events with over 1,000 attendees
• Any place where firearms are prohibited by federal law
• Any private property where the owner has posted a “No Firearms” sign

Failure to comply with these restrictions can result in immediate revocation of your permit and criminal charges.

Best Practices

1. Be Honest and Transparent

Attempting to conceal information, misrepresent your background, or provide false references will result in immediate denial and possible criminal prosecution for falsifying a government document. The Long Beach Police Department maintains detailed records and cross-references all data. Even minor discrepancies can trigger an investigation.

2. Prepare for the Interview

Your application interview is not a formality—it is a critical evaluation. Practice answering questions such as:

• Why do you need to carry a concealed firearm?
• Have you ever been involved in a violent incident?
• How do you plan to store your firearm at home?
• Have you ever had a firearm stolen or lost?

Answer confidently, calmly, and factually. Avoid emotional language. Focus on documented risk factors, not fear or anxiety.

3. Maintain a Clean Record

Even after obtaining your permit, your conduct matters. Any arrest, traffic violation involving drugs or alcohol, or domestic dispute can trigger a review of your permit. The Long Beach Police Department may conduct random compliance checks. Keep your firearm securely stored, never carry while intoxicated, and always comply with officer instructions during traffic stops or encounters.

4. Renew Early

Permits expire exactly two years from the date of issuance. Apply for renewal at least 90 days before expiration. Late applications may be denied. Renewal requires updated fingerprints, a new background check, and proof of continued residency or employment in Long Beach. You are not required to retake the safety course unless your certificate has expired.

5. Stay Informed on Legal Changes

California firearms laws are subject to frequent legislative changes. Subscribe to updates from the California Department of Justice or join local gun rights organizations such as the California Gun Rights Foundation. Court rulings, such as those from the U.S. Supreme Court in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen (2022), have impacted how “good cause” is interpreted nationwide. While California has resisted full liberalization, staying informed ensures you are prepared for potential procedural shifts.

6. Document Everything

Keep copies of every document you submit, every email correspondence, every receipt, and every appointment confirmation. If your application is denied, you have the right to request a written explanation. Having a complete record strengthens any appeal or future reapplication.

Tools and Resources

Official Resources

• California Department of Justice – Firearms Bureau: oag.ca.gov/firearms – Access approved training providers, application forms, and legal statutes
• Long Beach Police Department – Firearms Unit: longbeach.gov/police – Application details, contact information, and appointment scheduling
• California Penal Code § 26150–26215 – Full legal text governing concealed carry permits

Training Providers

Approved training courses in the Long Beach area include:

• Long Beach Gun Club – Offers 16-hour CCW courses with live-fire range time
• Desert Shield Training – Specializes in defensive tactics and legal education
• Southern California Firearms Academy – Certified by DOJ and offers weekend intensive courses
• Firearms Academy of California – Provides mobile training for groups and individuals

Always verify instructor certification on the DOJ website before enrolling.

Legal and Advocacy Support

While you cannot hire an attorney to “guarantee” approval, legal counsel can help you:

• Review your application for completeness
• Prepare documentation for “good cause” claims
• Advise on appeal procedures if denied

Reputable firms include:

• California Gun Law Center – Specializes in CCW denials and appeals
• Second Amendment Foundation Legal Team – Offers pro bono resources for qualified applicants

Practice and Equipment

Regular practice is essential for safety and proficiency. Recommended tools include:

• Steel targets with timers for speed and accuracy drills
• Trigger pull trainers (e.g., SIRT pistol) for dry-fire practice
• Concealed carry holsters (IWB or OWB) compatible with your chosen firearm
• App-based training tools like “The Range” or “Gunsmith” for legal scenario review

Practice at approved ranges such as the Long Beach Shooting Range or Signal Hill Gun Club. Never practice in public or residential areas.

Real Examples

Example 1: Successful Application – Security Guard

John, 34, works as a security guard at a high-end jewelry store in Downtown Long Beach. His employer requires him to carry a firearm while on duty and provides a letter verifying his responsibilities and the high-risk nature of his job. John completed a DOJ-approved course, submitted his employment letter, pay stubs, and a copy of his store’s security protocol. He was interviewed by a detective who reviewed his training certificate and verified his employment. After passing the range test, John received his permit within 67 days. He is authorized to carry a Glock 19 with a serial number listed on his permit.

Example 2: Denied Application – General Self-Defense Claim

Maria, 28, lives in a neighborhood with increased thefts. She applied for a CCW permit citing “fear for my safety” and included a police report about a car break-in. The Long Beach Police Department denied her application, stating that “generalized concerns about neighborhood crime do not constitute good cause under California law.” Maria was advised to pursue alternative safety measures, such as home security systems or self-defense classes. She later reapplied after being threatened by a former partner and obtaining a restraining order, which was granted. Her second application was approved.

Example 3: Renewal with Additional Firearm

Robert, 52, renewed his permit after two years. He requested to add a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield to his existing permit, which listed a Springfield XD. He submitted a new range qualification form, proof of ownership, and a completed amendment form. The department approved the addition after verifying his continued compliance and safety training. He now carries both firearms legally, but only the ones listed on his permit.

Example 4: Revocation Due to Violation

After three years of compliance, a permit holder was caught carrying a concealed firearm into a Long Beach city council meeting. The permit was immediately revoked, and he was charged with a misdemeanor under Penal Code § 171b. He lost his right to reapply for five years. This underscores the importance of understanding where you can and cannot carry, even with a valid permit.

FAQs

Can I carry a concealed firearm in Long Beach without a permit?

No. California prohibits carrying a concealed firearm in public without a valid CCW permit. Even if your firearm is legally owned and stored at home, carrying it concealed outside your residence without a permit is a felony under Penal Code § 25400.

How long does the process take?

The entire process typically takes 45 to 90 days, depending on the volume of applications and complexity of the background investigation. Some applicants experience delays due to incomplete documentation or requests for additional information.

Can I apply if I don’t live in Long Beach?

Yes, but only if you can prove that your primary place of employment or business is in Long Beach. Residency is not required if you are employed in the city. You must provide documentation such as a current pay stub, business license, or employer letter.

What if my application is denied?

You have the right to request a written explanation of the denial. You may reapply after addressing the stated deficiencies. If you believe the denial was arbitrary or discriminatory, you may file a petition for writ of mandate in Superior Court, though legal representation is strongly advised.

Can I carry in other California cities with a Long Beach permit?

Yes. A CCW permit issued by Long Beach is valid statewide. However, local ordinances still apply. For example, Los Angeles and San Francisco may have additional restrictions on where you can carry, even with a valid permit. Always check local laws before carrying in another jurisdiction.

Do I need to retake the safety course every time I renew?

No. As long as your original certificate is still valid (within two years of issuance), you do not need to retake the course. However, if your certificate has expired, you must complete a new 16-hour course.

Can I carry a concealed firearm while drinking?

Never. It is illegal to carry a concealed firearm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, even with a permit. Violation is a misdemeanor and can lead to immediate revocation of your permit.

Is there a limit to how many firearms I can carry?

You may carry only the firearms listed on your permit. You may list up to three firearms on your initial application. Additional firearms require a formal amendment request and proof of proficiency with each new weapon.

Can I carry a concealed firearm in my car?

Yes, but only if the firearm is in a locked container or the vehicle’s trunk. The firearm must be unloaded. Carrying a loaded firearm in a vehicle without a CCW permit is illegal, even if it’s concealed in a glove compartment or center console.

Can I appeal a denial based on “good cause”?

Yes. You may request a formal review by the Chief of Police. You may also submit additional evidence, such as new police reports, threat documentation, or employer letters. If the denial is upheld, you may seek judicial review through a writ of mandate in Los Angeles County Superior Court.

Conclusion

Obtaining a concealed carry permit in Long Beach is not a simple or guaranteed process. It demands thorough preparation, meticulous documentation, and a clear, legally defensible reason for needing to carry a concealed firearm. Unlike states with permissive carry laws, California places the burden of proof squarely on the applicant. Success requires more than a desire for personal protection—it requires evidence, discipline, and a deep understanding of the law.

By following this guide—completing certified training, gathering verifiable documentation, demonstrating specific good cause, and maintaining strict compliance—you significantly increase your chances of approval. Remember, a concealed carry permit is not a right; it is a privilege granted by the state under strict conditions. With that privilege comes immense responsibility: to carry safely, to act lawfully, and to respect the boundaries that protect public safety.

Whether you are a security professional, a resident facing documented threats, or someone committed to personal preparedness, the path to a concealed carry permit in Long Beach is demanding—but achievable with diligence and integrity. Stay informed, stay lawful, and carry responsibly.