SB 25-003: 4-Hour vs. 12-Hour Course — Which One Do You Need?

Colorado's SB 25-003 created new firearm safety training requirements — but not everyone needs the same course. The law established two distinct options: a 4-hour Basic course and a 12-hour Extended course. Choosing the wrong one wastes your time and money. Choosing the right one keeps you compliant.

Here's a straightforward breakdown of both options and how to determine which one applies to you.

What Is SB 25-003?

Senate Bill 25-003 is Colorado legislation that established mandatory firearm safety training requirements for certain gun owners. The law created a state-approved curriculum covering safe storage, safe handling, and the legal responsibilities that come with owning a firearm in Colorado.

The bill created two course lengths to accommodate different situations — not because one is "better" than the other, but because different circumstances call for different levels of training under the law.

The 4-Hour Basic Course

Cost at PG Firearms Training: $125

The 4-hour Basic SB 25-003 course is designed for individuals who already have documented firearms training or experience that satisfies part of the law's requirements.

This course covers:

• Colorado firearm safety laws and SB 25-003 requirements
• Safe storage practices and legal obligations
• Safe handling fundamentals
• Hands-on firearm handling exercise

The 4-hour course is the right choice if you already hold — or have previously held — a Colorado Concealed Handgun Permit, have completed prior qualifying firearms training, or otherwise meet the criteria that allow you to satisfy part of the requirement through existing credentials.

If you're unsure whether your prior training qualifies, contact us before registering. Our instructors can help you determine the right course for your situation.

The 12-Hour Extended Course

Cost at PG Firearms Training: $199

The 12-hour Extended SB 25-003 course is for individuals who do not have prior qualifying firearms training or credentials that satisfy part of the law's requirements.

This course covers everything in the 4-hour course, plus:

• Expanded classroom instruction on Colorado firearm laws
• In-depth safe storage and handling techniques
• Additional hands-on firearm training and qualification
• Comprehensive review of responsible ownership obligations

The 12-hour course provides a thorough foundation for gun owners who are newer to firearms or who do not have prior documented training that meets the law's criteria.

How to Choose the Right Course

The simplest way to determine which course you need:

1. Do you currently hold a valid Colorado CHP? The 4-hour course likely applies to you.
2. Have you completed prior qualifying firearms training? The 4-hour course may apply. Contact us to confirm.
3. No prior qualifying training or credentials? The 12-hour course is the right choice.

When in doubt, reach out before you register. Our instructors will help you make the right call — not just sign you up for the more expensive option.

What Both Courses Have in Common

Regardless of which course you take, both options at PG Firearms Training are:

• Taught by active law enforcement firearms instructors with real-world experience
• Conducted in person with classroom and hands-on firearm handling components
• Designed to meet Colorado's SB 25-003 requirements
• Small-group format for individual attention

We've been providing professional firearms instruction since 2009. Our approach is the same for every course: quality instruction over quantity of students.

Ready to Register?

Both SB 25-003 course options are available through our upcoming class schedule. View available dates, confirm which course applies to your situation, and register directly through our booking system.

View SB 25-003 Course Details and Register at /colorado-sb25003-class

If you have questions about which course is right for you, visit our Contact page before registering. We're happy to help you make the right choice.