In Colorado, instructors verified by sheriff’s offices are individuals or organizations that have undergone evaluation and approval by local law enforcement agencies to provide specific training. This could include concealed carry weapons (CCW) courses, self-defense, or safety training. Being verified by a sheriff's office demonstrates that the instructor meets the required standards for competency, curriculum, and credibility.

Why This is Important:

Credibility and Trust:
Verification by a sheriff's office reassures participants that the instructor is knowledgeable, experienced, and authorized to teach. It adds legitimacy to their qualifications.

Compliance with Legal Standards:
Many courses, particularly CCW classes, must comply with state and local laws. A sheriff-verified instructor ensures the curriculum aligns with those requirements.

Safety Assurance:
Training under a sheriff-verified instructor means that proper safety protocols are in place, reducing the risk of accidents during the course.

Reputation Building:
Instructors verified by law enforcement are often seen as more reputable, which can attract more students and boost the standing of the business offering such training.

Legal Recognition:
Certain certifications, like CCW permits, will require training from a sheriff-approved instructor for the permit to be legally valid.

Community Confidence:
Sheriff's offices play a central role in public safety. When they endorse an instructor, it can instill confidence in the community about the quality and reliability of the training provided.

How to Find a Verified Instructor:

1. Contact Your County Sheriff's OfficeVisit in Person: Stop by your local sheriff's office to inquire about verified firearms instructors or concealed carry permit (CCW) classes.
   Call or Email: Many sheriff’s offices have public contact numbers and email addresses for general inquiries.
   
2. Check the Sheriff’s Office Website
   Most county sheriff’s offices have a dedicated section on their websites for firearms-related services. Look for a list of recommended or approved instructors, often under sections like “Concealed Carry Permits” or “Firearm Training.”
3. Ask About Requirements
   Some sheriff’s offices maintain a list of instructors who meet the state’s training requirements for concealed carry or other certifications. Verify whether the training program aligns with the specific type of instruction you need (e.g., CCW training, general firearm safety, or advanced shooting skills).
4. Attend an Information Session
   Many sheriff’s offices host or promote firearms safety classes and may partner with verified instructors. These sessions are a good opportunity to connect with trusted trainers directly.
5. Verify the Instructor
   Ensure the recommended instructor is certified by recognized organizations (e.g., NRA, USCCA) and has a strong reputation. You can also ask the sheriff’s office whether the instructor is licensed or vetted for compliance with state laws.

In 2024, Colorado enacted House Bill 24-1174, introducing significant changes to the requirements for obtaining and renewing a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP). These changes, effective July 1, 2025, aim to enhance the training and verification processes associated with concealed carry permits.

Key Provisions of the New Law:

1. Enhanced Training Requirements for New Applicants:

• In-Person Instruction: Applicants must complete an initial concealed handgun training class in person, taught by an instructor verified by a county sheriff.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: The training must cover topics including firearm and ammunition safety, secure storage, shooting fundamentals, relevant federal and state laws, use of deadly force for self-defense, interaction with law enforcement, and conflict resolution.
• Duration: A minimum of 8 hours of instruction is required, encompassing both a live-fire exercise and a written exam.
• Competency Assessment: Applicants must achieve passing scores on both the written exam and live-fire exercise to complete the training successfully.

1. Renewal Requirements:

• Demonstration of Competence: To renew a CHP, applicants must demonstrate handgun competence. This can be achieved through various means, such as participation in organized shooting competitions, current military service, peace officer certification, verified instructor status, recent honorable discharge with pistol qualifications, or completion of a refresher training class.
• Refresher Training Class: If opting for a refresher class, it must be conducted in person by a verified instructor, include updates on firearm-related laws, and require passing scores on both a live-fire exercise and a written exam. The class must provide at least 2 hours of instruction.

1. Instructor Verification by County Sheriffs:

• Verification Process: County sheriffs are responsible for verifying firearms instructors operating within their jurisdictions. To be verified, instructors must hold a valid CHP and be certified by a recognized entity, such as a law enforcement agency, college, university, nationally recognized organization, or firearms training school.
• Deceptive Trade Practice: It is considered a deceptive trade practice for an individual to claim verified instructor status without proper verification from a county sheriff.

Implications for Colorado Counties:

• Administrative Responsibilities: County sheriffs must establish and manage processes for verifying firearms instructors, ensuring they meet the criteria outlined in the law.
• Resource Allocation: Counties may need to allocate resources to handle the increased administrative workload associated with instructor verification and the enforcement of enhanced training requirements.
• Public Awareness: Counties are responsible for informing residents about the new requirements to ensure compliance and facilitate a smooth transition when the law takes effect on July 1, 2025.

These measures are designed to promote responsible firearm ownership and ensure that individuals carrying concealed handguns in Colorado are adequately trained and knowledgeable about safety practices and legal obligations.