Is there a chance a class will get cancelled?
Unfortunately, yes. While it doesn't happen very often, if only one or two people register it doesn't make financial sense for me to hold a public class where I pay around $70 for a room and another $10 per person in range fees for a class I'm charging $100 for.
How long is the class?
I usually plan on 8am-4pm.
What documentation do I need to apply?
https://statepatrol.nebraska.gov/applyorrenew.aspx
The documents you'll need are listed at the link above. The newest requirement is that the names on all of your documents must match. That means if your name has changed (marriage, divorce...for example) then you need certified documentation for the name change. It would be a lot easier if you have a current/expired passport if that name matches your drivers license.
The documents you'll need are listed at the link above. The newest requirement is that the names on all of your documents must match. That means if your name has changed (marriage, divorce...for example) then you need certified documentation for the name change. It would be a lot easier if you have a current/expired passport if that name matches your drivers license.
What holster do you recommend?
Well there are lots of good holsters on the market, and many more that are custom made by private, small manufacturers in the Omaha and Lincoln areas. Here is a good article on selection criteria.
Why would anyone need to carry a gun?!
There are so many answers to this question... because it is my right... because when seconds count, the police are minutes away... because it is my responsibility to be my family's first line of defense... because I'm getting older and out of shape and fighting "fair" isn't an option anymore... but here's what I told a friend when he asked me why. Because I want to come home to my family every day.
People that choose to protect themselves aren't vigilantes. They are responsible, law-abiding citizens who want to go home to their families every day. Guns aren't the problem. Criminal activity is the problem. Statistics show that the more responsible citizens carry guns, the less crime there is. Go ahead and research... it's true. In what world is it okay for only the police and the nut-jobs to have guns? Not in mine.
People that choose to protect themselves aren't vigilantes. They are responsible, law-abiding citizens who want to go home to their families every day. Guns aren't the problem. Criminal activity is the problem. Statistics show that the more responsible citizens carry guns, the less crime there is. Go ahead and research... it's true. In what world is it okay for only the police and the nut-jobs to have guns? Not in mine.
Nebraska State Patrol- FAQs
Click here to find the Nebraska State Patrol's FAQs page
I don't have a pistol, can I take the class?
You bet! I have several you can borrow. You provide the ammunition, I'll let you use my pistol. Take the class! Then buy a pistol from Jeff at J&Ds Essentials because he will save you some cash and you can spend it on ammo to go practice :)
Are you willing to travel?
For a group, sure. We'd have to discuss how far, and scheduling, but I'd travel. I do have family in the Kearney area, so that would be pretty convenient for me if you live out in central Nebraska.
What is the process of getting a permit?
This question came through my Facebook page, and I take for granted that people know how it works, so I'm putting it in writing.
- First, the law requires that permit applicants take a class which includes basic handgun information, safe storage of guns and ammunition, basic marksmanship fundamentals, and covers the state and federal laws pertaining to firearms. You also must pass a range qualification test. The classroom session includes a 30 question, multiple-choice test.
- Next, after successfully completing both the classroom test and range qualification with at least 70% proficiency, you are awarded a completion certificate. Since I am a notary, we also complete the application in class and notarize it.
- You take your certificate, application, certified copy of your birth certificate, drivers license, and proof of residency to one of the State Patrol offices where they take the applications (along with cash/check for $100). If you've ever changed your name (marriage, divorce, adoption...) then you'll need to bring certified documentation of the name change with you to the State Patrol. Remember to schedule an appointment for your fingerprinting with the NSP.
- While at the office, you are fingerprinted and photographed. The State Patrol will then submit your information to the FBI for a background check.
- If you pass the background check, you will get your permit within 45 calendar days.
If I get a Nebraska CHP, what states honor my permit?
Great question. I'm going to refer you to the website, www.handgunlaw.us. If you click on Nebraska, it will pop up with a map of all the states that honor the NE permit.
What do I need to bring to the CHP class?
- An open mind and safe gun handling skills
- A cased or bagged handgun (left in your vehicle for class)
- Eye and ear protection
- 100 rounds of ammo (minimum)
- A cover garment (jacket, untucked shirt) so you can draw from concealment
- Sunscreen and insect repellant, depending on the weather and time of year.
- Thin gloves during the winter.
- Boots if it's been raining. Or shoes you don't mind getting muddy.
- A hat with a brim is handy... to keep brass out of the top of your prescription glasses.
I'm new to handguns, should I take the CHP class?
Probably not right away. While the Concealed Handgun Permit class is *kind of* a beginner level class, you should be familiar with your handgun before taking the CHP class. Please consider one of the other sessions first. However, if you're comfortable with your firearm, and have safe handling skills... don't be shy!
Do I have to register my handgun?
No.* Nebraska does not have a registration law.
*Except Omaha/Lincoln. If you live, work, travel, or breath near Omaha and don't have a concealed carry permit, you are required by city ordinance to register your concealable handguns if you are stopping in Omaha. Federal law says that if you leave from a location that allows handguns, and your destination also allows handguns, then you can transport your handgun from one place to the other. Omaha's ordinance is very broadly worded, however, so get a CHP and don't be subjected to their ordinances! Ok, so that's not quite accurate. But if you are transporting (and stopping) in Omaha city limits, you really need to look into their ordinances. Lincoln has a very quiet registration. If you buy a handgun from an FFL in city limits, it gets registered.
*Except Omaha/Lincoln. If you live, work, travel, or breath near Omaha and don't have a concealed carry permit, you are required by city ordinance to register your concealable handguns if you are stopping in Omaha. Federal law says that if you leave from a location that allows handguns, and your destination also allows handguns, then you can transport your handgun from one place to the other. Omaha's ordinance is very broadly worded, however, so get a CHP and don't be subjected to their ordinances! Ok, so that's not quite accurate. But if you are transporting (and stopping) in Omaha city limits, you really need to look into their ordinances. Lincoln has a very quiet registration. If you buy a handgun from an FFL in city limits, it gets registered.
How old do I have to be to carry a concealed handgun?
21
However, you can take the class before turning 21. The training is good for 3 years from the date printed on the certificate.
However, you can take the class before turning 21. The training is good for 3 years from the date printed on the certificate.
Can I Open-Carry in Nebraska?
Yes.* In every area that I know of open-carry is legal. Now, having said that, you are probably going to get lots of attention. If that's your goal, okay. Depending on where you are, you may get to visit with local police and you'd better know your stuff. *Omaha is a different beast. To open carry there, you need an OC permit. A former official in Omaha publicly said that holding a CHP was good enough for the Open Carry permit, but the new person hasn't come out and said that directly. You *may* still need to get an OC permit. You'll need to call the city to see. It also appears that Blair, NE bans the open carry of loaded firearms anywhere in the city.
What would disqualify me from getting a CHP?
Several things may disqualify a person from getting a CHP. You can find the application here. Download and read it over. Generally speaking, if you are a convicted felon, have a restraining order against you, or have any firearms related convictions, you may be disqualified. If you've qualified for a purchase permit with your County Sheriff, you'll most likely qualify for a Concealed Handgun Permit. Please note I am NOT a lawyer, and I will answer your questions to the best of my ability, but my advice should not be mistaken for legal counsel. The most common issue my students have reported is having been ticketed for a loaded shotgun in a vehicle. That's a no-no.
Are there places I cannot carry?
Yes, there is a lengthy list of places in which CHP holders are prohibited from carrying. Generally speaking, you may not carry in any government building (local, state, or federal), police station or prison, any hospital, any school, at any athletic event, banks, church (unless the church has formed an armed security force and you are a part of that force), and any private business that has been posted as no-carry. There are others, but those are the main ones.