Spartan Training Division
Colorado SB25-003 Firearms Safety Course
New requirements in effect as of August 1, 2026
View SB25-003 Class Schedule
Questions? Contact Spartan Defense at 719-917-1776.
Colorado SB25-003 established new requirements for certain purchases and transfers of firearms classified as Specified Semiautomatic Firearms .
Spartan Defense provides firearms safety training to help eligible Colorado residents understand and complete the required training.
Colorado Specified Semiautomatic Firearms Working Document
View State Draft PDF
Review the State of Colorado's current draft working document regarding firearms classified as Specified Semiautomatic Firearms.
| Course Detail | Requirement / Information | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Course Options | 4-Hour or 12-Hour | The applicable course depends on qualifying hunter education. |
| Course Fee | To Be Announced | State, county, eligibility-card, and range fees may be separate. |
| Written Examination | Required | Students must meet all applicable completion requirements. |
| Effective Date | August 1, 2026 | Requirements apply to all covered purchases or transfers. |
| Class Schedule | Available Now | Class dates are posted on the event calendar. |
Course Overview
This course addresses firearms safety and other required topics associated with Colorado's SB25-003 training standards.
Students receive instruction designed to ensure proper understanding of safe firearm handling, storage, legal responsibilities, and the complete process required prior to purchasing or receiving a covered firearm.
Purchase Process
Anyone purchasing an affected firearm must complete the following steps before the transaction can be finalized:
1
Customer Application
Customer Application through the Firearms Safety System (FSS)
Access FSS Application Portal →2
3
Sheriff Review and Eligibility Card Issuance
Submit the Specified Semiautomatic Firearms (SSF) application and 3rd party background check to the appropriate county sheriff's department.
El Paso County Application →4
5
Purchase & FFL Verification
Purchase firearm (select firearms only – most handguns, lever actions, bolt guns, and pump shotguns are exempt)
Curriculum Highlights
Review the training modules covered in each course tier to understand how they align with your requirements.
4-Hour Safety Course
- State Legal Framework: Detailed review of Colorado's SB25-003, firearm purchase procedures, transport laws, and legal liabilities.
- FSS Navigation: Step-by-step guidance on how to navigate the state's Firearms Safety System application.
- Safe Storage & Handling: Best practices for secure home storage, lock choices, and preventing unauthorized access.
- Written Examination: Required state-mandated test to evaluate understanding of the course content with a passing score of 90% or higher.
12-Hour Extended Course
- Convenient Two-Day Schedule: The 12-hour course is divided into two separate 6-hour classroom sessions, making it easier to fit into your work and family schedule.
- All 4-Hour Core Content: Includes the complete overview of Colorado firearm laws, safe storage protocols, and the FSS application system.
- Firearm Mechanics & Safety: Comprehensive breakdown of semiautomatic actions, cycles of operation, maintenance, and the universal rules of firearm safety.
- Shooting Fundamentals: Instruction covering grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control, loading and unloading procedures, malfunction recognition, and responsible firearm handling.
- Written Examination: Required state-mandated test to evaluate understanding of the course content with a passing score of 90% or higher.
Disclaimer: This page provides general educational
information and is not legal advice. Course availability, state
approval, firearm classifications, fees, agency procedures, and
eligibility requirements may change. Students and customers should
confirm current requirements before registering for a class or
attempting a firearm purchase or transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Click a question below to view the answer.
What firearms are affected by SB25-003?
The law applies to firearms that meet Colorado's definition of a Specified Semiautomatic Firearm .
Semiautomatic RiflesThe law covers many semiautomatic rifles that accept detachable magazines, including certain AR-15-pattern, AK-pattern, and other rifles.
Semiautomatic ShotgunsThe law covers certain semiautomatic shotguns that accept detachable magazines.
Semiautomatic PistolsThe law covers certain gas-operated semiautomatic pistols that accept detachable magazines.
Important: Customers should consult the current
official state guidance to determine whether a particular firearm
is included. Classifications and published guidance may be
updated.
Does my CHP apply?
No. Having a Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) does not exempt you from the SB25-003 training requirements or permit process.
Applicants must still register for and complete the appropriate 4-hour basic course (if holding a qualifying Hunter Education certificate) or 12-hour extended course based on their individual eligibility.
Note: Always confirm your eligibility status and course selection requirements prior to signing up for a class.
What is required to purchase a covered firearm?
A person purchasing or receiving an affected firearm must complete several required steps before the transaction can be finalized.
- Apply for the applicable firearms eligibility credential through the appropriate county sheriff's office.
- Pay required state, county, training, and other applicable fees.
- Complete the applicable state-approved firearms safety course.
- Pass the required written examination.
- Return to the firearm dealer to complete the Colorado background check and firearm transfer.
Processing times may vary. Customers should begin the process
early and confirm current requirements with the appropriate
government agency.
What is the difference between the 4-hour and 12-hour courses?
4-Hour Basic Course
The shorter course is intended for students who possess qualifying Colorado Parks and Wildlife Hunter Education certification and satisfy the applicable eligibility requirements.
12-Hour Extended CourseThe extended course is intended for students who do not possess qualifying Hunter Education certification or who are otherwise required to complete the longer course.
Students should confirm which course applies to them before
registering.