DMV CCWConcealed Carry & Defense Training
Show USCCA Classes Show NRA Courses
Training State Requirements Reciprocity Instructors Contact Student Documents VA Permit Guide MD Permit Guide UT Permit Guide Show USCCA Classes Show NRA Courses

RANGE SAFETY · STRICTLY ENFORCED

DMV CCW Range Rules

These rules apply to every student, every session, with no exceptions. They exist because firearms are unforgiving of carelessness. Read them before class — your instructor will not stop to re-explain them on the line.

Zero tolerance

Any violation of the four core firearm safety rules below, any handling of a firearm while impaired, or any act of genuine horseplay on the range will result in immediate dismissal from class without refund. This is non-negotiable and applies regardless of experience level.

Non-Negotiable

The four core rules

Every other rule on this page exists to reinforce these four. Know them before you ever pick up a firearm.

01

Treat every firearm as if it is loaded

Every time. Even the one you just personally checked. Even the one your instructor handed you. No exceptions, no assumptions.

02

Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy

Muzzle discipline is constant, not situational. This includes when drawing, holstering, loading, unloading, and handing a firearm to someone else.

03

Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target and you are ready to fire

Your finger stays indexed along the frame — not inside the trigger guard — at every other moment, including while moving, loading, and clearing malfunctions.

04

Know your target and what is beyond it

You are responsible for every round you fire, including where it ends up if it misses or passes through. If you are not certain what's downrange, you do not fire.

In the Classroom

Class rules

Pre-class

  • Download, fill in, and complete the documents required for the state(s) your training covers and the application(s) you intend to submit, including your registration and liability waiver.
  • Inform your instructor of any allergies, and make sure you bring any required medication with you.
  • Discuss any special accommodations you need well in advance of class.
  • Food and drink availability depends on where the class is held — please ask in advance.
  • Refunds and re-booking follow the policy of the platform you booked through — USCCA or NRA.

In the classroom

  • Do not bring firearms into the classroom without prior approval from your instructor.
  • No ammunition in the classroom under any circumstances.
  • Keep it fun — no disruptive or abusive behavior.

On the Line

Range conduct

  • Eye and ear protection is mandatory for the entire time you are on the range — no exceptions for "just one shot."
  • Firearms remain holstered, cased, or on the bench with the action open until your instructor or the Range Safety Officer directs otherwise.
  • Follow every command from your instructor or RSO immediately — "cease fire" means hands off the firearm and step back from the line, without discussion.
  • No alcohol, cannabis, or impairing substances before or during training. If you are taking medication that affects alertness or coordination, tell your instructor before class.
  • No horseplay, no quick-draws, no "just checking if it's empty" games. Firearms are not props.
  • Ammunition stays in its original packaging or a magazine until you're actively loading at the line.
  • Minors on the range must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times and are subject to the same rules as every other participant.
  • Report any malfunction to your instructor immediately — do not attempt to clear it yourself unless specifically directed to.
  • Food and drink are not permitted on the firing line; phone use and photography are dependent on the range being used.

Wrapping Up

At the end of your session

  • Check for spent cartridges in pockets, bags, and gear before you leave the line.
  • Wash your hands and face before eating, drinking, or touching your face — firearms training leaves lead residue behind.
  • Only pack up a firearm at the bench, with your instructor present — never while walking or standing away from the line.
  • Keep eye and ear protection on until you are fully outside the range, not just away from the firing line.
  • Obey the Range Safety Officer whenever you request to leave or re-enter the firing line — wait for their go-ahead, every time.

Before You Arrive

What to have ready

  • A completed registration and liability waiver — bring it filled out, or arrive a few minutes early to complete it in class.
  • Any state-specific documents required for your application — check the Student Documents page for the forms that apply to you.
  • Closed-toe footwear, and no loose-necked shirts (hot brass can land inside a low collar).
  • A valid state-issued ID.
  • Your own firearm, if you have one — ensure it is maintained and transported safely, and that you're aware of any applicable transport laws for your route. You're welcome to bring up to 100 rounds of suitable ammunition (no steel-core, incendiary, tracer, or armor-piercing rounds); let your instructor know in advance if you'll need a loaner firearm or ammunition instead.
  • Training may be held at any number of locally accommodating ranges, and that range's own waiver may also apply — check the Student Documents page for current links.
  • Be aware that most ranges are not readily accessible by public transport — plan your own transportation. We'll always strive to ensure the classroom portion of training is accessible by public transport.

Ready to get on the line? Book your class.

View Training Programs Go to Student Documents

These rules supplement, not replace, instructor and Range Safety Officer direction. If a specific range's own posted rules are stricter than what's listed here, the range's rules govern. Firearms handling carries inherent risk of serious injury or death — see the registration and liability waiver for the full release of liability you'll be asked to sign before training.

NRA & USCCA affiliation. DMVCCW.com / MASC Holdings LLC is an independent training provider. Training courses, materials, and certificates offered under the National Rifle Association (NRA) curriculum or the U.S. Concealed Carry Association (USCCA) curriculum are managed as completely separate educational programs. NRA courses are taught by instructors holding valid, active NRA certifications; any non-NRA training, custom defensive courses, or state-specific CCW courses hosted on this platform are independent offerings and are not NRA-certified courses. USCCA courses are taught by instructors holding valid, active USCCA certifications, and USCCA logos and training materials are used with express permission under active instructor membership status. All corporate logos, trademarks, and brand names (including NRA and USCCA) belong to their respective owners. Use of instructor-specific badges or text credentials indicates personal instructor qualification and does not imply corporate endorsement, partnership, or sponsorship of DMVCCW.com / MASC Holdings LLC by either organization.