PREP ACADEMY · $125
Virginia Concealed Handgun
Permit Class
Eight hours that prepare you to carry, not just to apply: four hours of video you watch ahead of class, then four hours of supervised shooting at our private range near Culpeper, Virginia.
MORE THAN A PERMIT CLASS
Training for the Responsibility of Carrying Concealed
This class is for people who understand that carrying a concealed pistol takes more than sitting through a lecture. You’ll learn the relevant law, pre-assault indicators, how to operate your pistol, and how to draw and shoot from a holster. No “insurance” sales pitch.
Completing it meets the holster-draw prerequisite for every Citizen-Defender Academy class. Join the Academy within a month of class and get a $125 credit toward your membership.
PRACTICAL, HANDS-ON TRAINING
What You'll Learn
You watch four hours of video at home, then spend four hours shooting under supervision on our private range. Here’s what the eight hours cover.
Drawing From a Holster
Learn a safe, consistent draw, then shoot from the holster with an instructor watching every rep.
Operating Your Pistol
Handle, load and shoot your own pistol safely, with coaching that builds real confidence.
Pre-Assault Indicators
Recognize the warning signs that often come before an attack, so you can act early or avoid it.
Video Before Class
Four hours of video you watch at home ahead of time, so class day is spent on the range.
Virginia Law
The laws that apply to carrying a concealed handgun in Virginia, and the responsibilities that come with it.
What to Bring
Pistol, holster and a sturdy belt (loaners available), 200 rounds of FMJ ammunition, and eye and ear protection.
AFTER YOUR PERMIT CLASS
Where to Go Next
A permit is a starting point. Here’s how to keep building your skills with Citizen-Defender.
VA/Utah Permit Class Plus
Want to carry in more states? This $125 class qualifies you for both the Virginia permit and the Utah non-resident permit, recognized in over thirty states. Fingerprints taken on site.
The Citizen-Defender Academy
Ready to keep training? The Academy is a year-long path of Core classes, electives and open range days. Join within a month of your permit class and get a $125 credit toward your membership.
VIRGINIA CONCEALED HANDGUN PERMIT
Virginia Concealed Carry Training FAQs
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Yes. According to Citizen-Defender, all of our classes and private training sessions exceed the training requirements for a Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP).
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No. We welcome students at different experience levels, including beginners. Our training is designed to meet you where you are and help you develop practical skills from your current level.
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Not necessarily. Citizen-Defender has Smith & Wesson, Glock and SIG firearms, holsters and other equipment available for training, giving students an opportunity to try different equipment before deciding what works best for them.
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Citizen-Defender operates a private training and range facility approximately five miles south of Culpeper, Virginia. Check the current class listing for the location of a specific course.
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Yes. Private training is available for students who prefer personalized instruction based on their experience, goals and the skills they want to develop.
WHY CITIZEN-DEFENDER
Citizen-Defender provides practical firearms, self-defense and preparedness training for responsible citizens in Northern Virginia. Our courses emphasize sound judgment, proven skills and hands-on instruction designed for situations you may actually encounter.
Why Train With Citizen-Defender?
Experienced Instruction
Training built on decades of professional experience and continued study.
Private Training Facility
Hands-on instruction at our private training facility near Culpeper, Virginia.
Training for Every Experience Level
Options for first-time students, experienced shooters and those looking to develop more advanced defensive skills.
Find Your Next Training Class
Ready to train? View our upcoming firearms, self-defense and preparedness classes to find available dates, locations and registration information.