Routt County is reminding residents of new legislation passed by the Colorado State Legislature that requires concealed handgun holders to take a “refresher” handgun training class.

Starting July 1, current concealed handgun permit holders can renew permits up to 120 days before their current permits expire, according to a news release.

Permit holders who retired from law enforcement or the military in the last 10 years, or who participate in organized shooting competitions, are exempt from the refresher training class.

All new applicants must take the training course after July 1 to obtain a concealed handgun permit.

Current firearms instructors are also required to comply with the new requirements, according to the release.

• Handgun training classes must be conducted by a verified instructor.
• Firearm instructors must be verified through the sheriff’s office in the jurisdiction where the majority of their training is conducted.
• Verification is valid statewide.
• Verified instructors must be listed on the local sheriff’s website.
• New training requirements include a written test with a minimum score of 80% and live-fire training and test with a minimum score of 70% accuracy for both new and renewal applicants.
• Classes are to be held in-person by the verified instructor. No portion of the class shall be on the internet.
• New applicant training class must be a minimum total of eight hours and the renewal applicant “refresher” class must be a minimum of two hours.
• Training certificates signed by a verified instructor will be valid one year for new applicants and six months for renewal applicants.

For more information, visit Co.Routt.Co.Us.