How To Prepare For The
North Carolina Concealed Carry Handgun Course
There are two main parts to the NC Concealed Carry Handgun Course:
- Classroom
- Range Qualification
Most of the time is dedicated to the classroom.
There will be a written exam that covers course material on North Carolina laws governing the use of firearms, concealed handguns and use of deadly force.
The range qualification will require that each student fire 10 shots at a target from each distance of 3, 5 and 7 yards, for a total of 30 shots. At least 21 of the shots fired must hit the target. (The instructor will explain what constitutes “hit the target”). During the range time, the student will also be evaluated on handgun safety, which is covered in the classroom.
Preparing for the Written Exam:
The exam will be only on North Carolina Laws governing the use of firearms, concealed handguns and the use of deadly force. Usually, the standardized test with 20 questions consisting of 16 true/false and 4 multiple choice questions is used.
These documents cover the exam questions:
(Links to these and other documents may be found on this site, NC/US Firearms Laws.)
Weapons on campus or other educational property
Carrying weapons into assemblies and establishments where alcoholic beverages are sold and consumed
Weapons on certain State property and in courthouses
Weapons at parades, etc., prohibited
Storage of firearms to protect minors
Permit to carry concealed handgun; scope of permit
Home, workplace, and motor vehicle protection; presumption of fear of death or serious bodily harm.
Use of force in defense of person; relief from criminal or civil liability [stand your ground]
Justification for defensive force not available
Preparing for the range qualification:
The marksmanship skill needed to pass the range part of the course is minimal. If you are already an experienced shooter, you’ll do well. If you’re not, take a basic pistol course or get someone who is knowledgeable and experienced to help. In any case remember to practice the basic handgun safety rules:
Treat all guns as loaded
Point the muzzle in a safe direction at all times
Keep finger outside the trigger guard until ready to fire
Be sure of the target and surroundings, particularly what’s behind it