Rhode Island Concealed Carry Training Requirements

Training Requirements for Rhode Island Concealed Carry

Pistol/Revolver Safety Certificate ("Blue Card")

While not equivalent to a concealed carry permit, the pistol/revolver safety certificate (colloquially known as the "blue card") is a foundational firearms qualification in Rhode Island:

• Issuing Authority: Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM)
• Eligibility: Lawful residents of Rhode Island who are at least 21 years old
• Examination: Applicants must pass the state's requisite handgun safety exam
• Passing Score: A score of 80 points or higher is required to pass
• Purpose: Required for purchasing a handgun and, as of January 1, 2023, for purchasing any ammunition
• Reference: RI DEM Handgun Safety Certification

"A 'blue card' is the colloquial term for the pistol/revolver safety certificate. Blue cards are issued by the RI Department of Environmental Management." - RI Attorney General Guidance (AG 2022-02)

Concealed Carry Permit vs. Blue Card

The Rhode Island Attorney General's office has clarified that the pistol/revolver safety certificate is not the equivalent of a concealed carry permit. However, concealed carry permit holders are exempt from the blue card and hunter education card requirements for purchasing ammunition.

"No, the pistol/revolver safety certificate is not the equivalent of a concealed carry permit, but concealed carry permit holders do not need a blue card or hunter education card to purchase ammunition." - RI Attorney General Guidance (AG 2022-02)

Concealed Carry Permit Training

Rhode Island issues concealed carry permits through two authorities:

• Local Police Department: Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-11, local licensing authorities may issue permits to suitable persons demonstrating a proper reason for carrying
• Attorney General: Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-18, the Attorney General may issue permits; expedited applications are available for retired law enforcement (no showing of need required)

Applicants for a concealed carry permit are generally required to demonstrate competence with firearms, which typically includes completion of a qualifying firearms safety or training course. Specific training course requirements may vary by issuing authority.

Age Requirements

As of June 21, 2022 (House Bill 7457aa / Senate Bill 2637A, signed by Governor Daniel J. McKee):

• Minimum age to purchase firearms: 21 years old
• Minimum age to purchase ammunition: 21 years old (effective January 1, 2023, must also possess a blue card or hunter education card)
• Statutory Reference: R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-26

Exemptions from Age and Training Requirements

The following individuals are exempt from the age restrictions and ammunition purchase requirements:

• Full-time members of the state police or municipal police departments
• State marshals
• Correctional officers
• Active-duty members of the United States armed forces, organized reserves, or National Guard

Note: Retired law enforcement officers are not exempt from these requirements, though they may apply for an expedited concealed carry permit through the Attorney General's office.

Hunter Education Card Alternative

A hunter education course card issued by the RI Department of Environmental Management may serve as an alternative to the blue card for handgun and ammunition purchases.

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Sources: Rhode Island Attorney General Firearms Safety Guidance (AG 2022-02), R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-26. Note: Applicants should consult the Rhode Island Attorney General's Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) and their local police department for the most current and specific training requirements for concealed carry permit applications.