Montana Concealed Carry Training Requirements

Training Requirements

Montana requires applicants for a Concealed Weapon Permit (CWP) to provide written documentation of firearms training as one of the basic criteria for permit issuance.

Accepted Proof of Training

Pursuant to MCA § 45-8-321, applicants must present one of the following forms of documented firearms training:

• DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) - military service members and veterans
• Hunter Safety/Education Course - state-approved hunter education certificate
• Handgun Safety Course - completed through a qualified instructor or training program
• Law Enforcement Certificate - for current or former law enforcement officers

Training Costs

• The applicant is responsible for all costs associated with completing a handgun safety course
• Training costs are separate from the permit application fee ($50.00 initial / $25.00 renewal)

Key Details

• There is no state-mandated minimum hour requirement specified in statute for the training course
• Montana does not require a live-fire qualification component at the state level
• Training must be documented in writing and presented at the time of application
• County sheriff's offices may maintain lists of approved local training classes and instructors (e.g., Lewis & Clark County publishes a Training Classes and Instructors list)

Renewal Training Requirements

• Standard renewals (within 6 months of expiration): No additional training documentation required - applicants need only the completed renewal application and current permit
• Expired permits (more than 6 months past expiration): Treated as a new application - applicant must submit a full application and show proof of training via expired permit, hunter education certificate, military documentation, or law enforcement certificate

Permitless Carry Note

Following the passage of HB 102 (effective February 18, 2021), Montana allows permitless concealed carry for eligible individuals in most areas of the state. A CWP remains valuable for reciprocity with other states that honor Montana permits. Training requirements apply only to those seeking a formal CWP, not to permitless carry.

Governing Statute

• MCA § 45-8-321 - Carrying concealed weapons; permit provisions and eligibility criteria

Note: Specific training course content, curriculum standards, and instructor certification requirements are determined at the county level by the issuing sheriff's office. Applicants should contact their county sheriff for approved training options.