NRA Basic Pistol Course

Connecticut Firearms Training, LLC delivers the NRA Basic Pistol Course required by Connecticut law before applying for a pistol permit. This isn't optional—the state demands completion of this specific course before you can submit your permit application.

The NRA Basic Pistol Course includes:

• •Minimum 48 rounds of live fire on a real semi-automatic pistol or revolver (computer simulations, dry-fire, plastic bullets, and air guns don't count)
• •Classroom instruction covering firearms safety and operation
• •Live-fire training at their 12-port shooting range on-site
• •Notary service and fingerprinting available for your permit application

William Reed - Senior Instructor Ex-Army with deployments in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm with the 101st Airborne. Served as range safety officer and firearms instructor at Fort Jackson, SC, teaching U.S. Army basic trainees. 25+ years teaching civilians, military, police academy students, and everyone in between. Holds multiple NRA certifications: - Certified NRA Firearms Instructor - NRA Chief Range Safety Officer - NRA Personal Protection in the Home Instructor - NRA Personal Protection Outside the Home Instructor - NRA Rifle Instructor - NRA Shotgun Instructor - Utah CCW Pistol Permit Instructor

Brent - Certified Instructor NRA Firearms Instructor and Range Safety Officer with years of shooting experience. Prior professional martial artist and combat trainer with four years Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (Purple Belt), boxing, and wrestling. Has trained law enforcement, military, and civilian personnel.

Before you can even apply for a pistol permit:

• •You must be 21+ and a legal U.S. resident
• •Complete the NRA Basic Pistol Course (no shortcuts)
• •Pass background check, criminal history review, and fingerprinting
• •Provide proof of legal residency (birth certificate, U.S. Passport)
• •Pay $70 for a 5-year pistol permit

The state has 8 weeks to approve or deny. Certain criminal convictions, mental health holds, restraining orders, and illegal residency status disqualify you.

• •Not approved: NRA Home Firearms Safety Course, First Steps Pistol Orientation Program, or any online-only courses.

If you want to buy and transport firearms but aren't ready to carry, Connecticut offers an Eligibility Certificate ($35, 5-year term). You still need the NRA Basic Pistol Course—it's mandatory either way.

Register online at their website or call (203) 748-4867 to enroll in the next available class.