Understanding The Wisconsin Concealed Carry Process

By Marissa Velazquez


Wisconsin concealed carry guidelines became effective in November, 2011. If a person becomes licensed, it is lawful for them to have obscured lethal weapons. Not surprisingly, necessary charges must be paid, training must be fulfilled and requirements should be met. The complete process is reasonably simple for men and women who qualify.

In addition to simple handguns, the law applies to other weapons such as stun guns, certain knives and billy clubs. However, it does not apply to items such as machine guns, short-barreled rifles or short-barreled shotguns. There are also a number of regulations that restrict when and where a weapon can be carried in public in a hidden manner.

A license does not universally permit carrying into law enforcement buildings, prisons or courthouses. In addition, areas such as mental health institutions, school grounds and taverns while drinking are not covered by normal CCW permits. Also, business owners, colleges or universities and special event promoters have the exclusive right to prohibit or limit any weapons at their discretion.

In order to meet the requirements to acquire a license, an individual must be a lawful resident of Wisconsin, complete certified firearms training and be at least 21 years old. Formal background checks must also be performed at the point of application. Individuals could be excluded due to conditions of bail, particular prison records or criminal court cases. The circumstances may be dependent on a number of state, Federal or local laws.

Unlike some other states, Wisconsin's training requirements are relatively flexible and widely available. Courses can be offered directly by law enforcement agencies, certified university programs and by certified private companies. The Department of Natural Resources Hunter Education Program is also recognized as being a satisfactory and qualifying form of training.

An authorization that is awarded for a Wisconsin resident is usually valid when brought in to various states. In the same way, some state's licenses are considered to be legitimate here. Even so, Wisconsin's citizens need a certificate furnished in the state. If an individual holds a permit from a specific state, they must typically reside in the state to be considered as a lawful license owner.

Although out-of-state permits do not have any legal capabilities in terms of carrying certification is concerned, some might likely be taken as verification of training. Certainly, they can not be under pending investigation, legal suspension or temporary revocation. Regional law enforcement departments managing the application procedure have the power to fundamentally accept or reject these types of requests.

Generally, application forms are available online, by mail or in person. Typically, specific county offices are designated to provide applications, review requests and provide information. Other agencies, training facilities and certified individuals may possibly supply the necessary paperwork in your specific area.

At the time of this writing, the state requires an initial application fee of $50.00, which also covers the required background check. Of course, any expenses required for Wisconsin concealed carry training programs is additional and can vary substantially. For the most part, it will take several weeks for the entire process to be completed, but the license will be valid for five years, unless suspended or revoked.




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