DC Concealed Pistol Training
Basic - DC concealed-pistol (CPL) training courses are usually an upper-beginner/intermediate level — not for brand-new shooters, but not full tactical/advanced either.
Duration: 16 hours of classroom instructions, 2 hours range time
$350.00
Fee
Date | Availability |
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There are no upcoming classes scheduled for this course.
Description
This practical, instructor-led DC Concealed Pistol Training course prepares eligible civilians to responsibly possess and carry a concealed handgun in the District of Columbia. The course combines classroom instruction on DC law, safe storage/transport, use-of-force considerations, and after-action responsibilities with hands-on firearm safety, manipulations, and a supervised live-fire qualification.
Topics Covered
1. DC Firearm Laws
Overview of DC Code Title 7 (Firearms Registration, Carrying Laws), prohibited places, transportation rules, etc.
2. Federal Firearm Laws:
Key federal regulations that apply to possession, transfer, and carrying of firearms.
3. Use of Force / Deadly Force Law
Legal justification for using force or deadly force; DC's self-defense laws; knowing when use is authorized.
4. Firearm Safety Rules
The Four Universal Firearm Safety Rules; safe handling, storage, and transport.
5. Safe Storage & Child Access Prevention
DC legal requirements and practical methods for storing firearms securely.
6. Situational Awareness & Conflict Avoidance
Principles of avoiding danger, de-escalation, and threat recognition before use of force is necessary.
7. Concealed Carry Best Practices
Drawing from concealment, Holster selection, clothing considerations, printing awareness, retention, and carrying safely in public.
8. Post-Incident Procedures
What to do after a defensive shooting: calling 911, interacting with law enforcement, legal representation, preserving evidence.
9. Firearm Mechanics
Parts of a handgun, ammunition types, cycle of operation, function checks.
10. Malfunction Recognition & Clearing
Types of malfunctions (e.g., stovepipes, misfeeds), immediate action drills (Tap-Rack), safe resolution.
11. Defensive Shooting Fundamentals
Grip, stance, sight picture, trigger control, recoil management — from a defensive context.
12. Concealed Carry Mindset & Legal Responsibility
Mental preparation, moral/ethical considerations, responsibility of carrying a deadly weapon, DC Law on Self-Defense
Expectations and Outcomes
By the end of this course students will be able to:
Demonstrate the four universal firearm safety rules and apply them in classroom and range environments.
Describe DC (and federal) legal requirements affecting concealed carry, transport, and use of force in general terms and know where to get authoritative legal advice.
Safely load, unload, perform basic immediate actions, and conduct a safe holster draw in dry practice.
Show consistent fundamentals of handgun marksmanship (grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control).
Successfully complete the live-fire qualification and demonstrate safe behavior on the firing line.
Explain safe storage, carrying choices, de-escalation principles, and required post-incident procedures
Types
Basic, Intermediate, Concealed Carry Training
Requirements
Serviceable registered handgun in the District
Holster that covers the trigger guard and secures the firearm (rigid, retention recommended).
Minimum 3 magazines (or as required by provider).
Eye and ear protection (ANSI-rated), hat for sun, closed-toe shoes.
Ammunition as required by the instructor (bring more than the minimum requested).
Notebook and pen.
Private lesson with a certified instructor: 1–2 hours of 1-on-1 instruction on your firearm. Gives you immediate feedback and ensures you're safe to train in a group.
Maryland Wear and CarryCovers similar handgun safety topics. Useful if already taken, but not required or sufficient alone for DC
NRA Basic Pistol: Covers safety, handgun parts, loading, sight alignment, and shooting fundamentals. Builds the core skills needed to pass the CPL course.