Colorado Specified Semiautomatic Firearm FAQ

The Colorado Specified Semiautomatic Firearm (SSF) program begins August 1, 2026, and has already created questions, confusion, and rumors.

This page answers common questions about the new program, possible training paths, testing requirements, Hunter Education exemptions, and the purchase process as it is currently understood.

Information may change as Colorado Parks and Wildlife and state agencies continue implementation.

For a complete overview, see our main article:

Colorado Specified Semiautomatic Firearm Program: What Changes August 1, 2026?

Official updates and implementation information are available from
Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Students should verify current requirements because procedures may continue to change.

Colorado Specified Semiautomatic Firearm FAQ

 

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Do I need training if I already own one?

Current guidance indicates people who already legally possess qualifying firearms before August 1, 2026 are not affected by the new program.

Even if training is not required, additional firearms safety training may still be valuable for owners with limited experience.

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Do all semiautomatic firearms require the course?

No.

Only firearms meeting the legal definition of a Specified Semiautomatic Firearm (SSF) are included.

Many firearms remain exempt.

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Will my Glock require the course?

Many traditional recoil-operated handguns may be exempt under current guidance.

Always verify official state lists and classifications when released because implementation details may change.

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Are AR rifles included?

Many detachable magazine semiautomatic rifles are expected to fall under the program.

AR pattern rifles, AK pattern rifles, AKM pattern rifles, and similar platforms may be included.

Always verify official guidance for specific models and configurations.

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What if I already have Hunter Education?

Current implementation indicates Hunter Education holders are expected to qualify for the shorter 4-hour firearms safety pathway.

Final procedures should always be verified before registering.

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Will my Hunter Education card replace the SSF course?

No.

Current guidance indicates Hunter Education may reduce required training time but does not completely replace the process.

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What if I do NOT have Hunter Education?

You may need the extended 12-hour firearms safety course.

Current guidance indicates this training must be completed over multiple days.

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Will I have to shoot?

Current understanding suggests there is no live-fire qualification requirement.

Students should still consider additional training to develop safe handling skills and proper gun operation.

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Do I need permission before taking class?

Current information indicates applicants may first need eligibility approval through their local sheriff before attending training.

Implementation details may continue to change.

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Can I take the class before sheriff approval?

Current understanding suggests students may need eligibility approval before attending training.

Always verify procedures before registering.

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Will there be a written test?

Yes.

Current guidance indicates students must successfully complete testing as part of the course.

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What score do I need?

Current guidance indicates students must obtain a minimum passing score of 90%.

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Can any instructor teach this class?

No.

Only instructors approved and certified for the program may participate.

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Will my Colorado concealed carry permit count?

At this time the concealed handgun permit system appears separate from the SSF program.

Possessing a concealed carry permit does not automatically replace SSF requirements.

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Will there be fees?

Expect administrative fees associated with eligibility review, background checks, and processing.

Training costs may also apply.

Final details may change.

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Is this a ban?

No.

The program establishes training and purchase requirements for certain future purchases and transfers involving qualifying firearms.

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Which firearms appear exempt?

Examples currently expected to remain outside the program include:

• Many hunting shotguns
• Most rimfire firearms
• Bolt-action firearms
• Pump-action firearms
• Lever-action firearms
• Slide-action firearms
• Certain recoil-operated handguns
• Antique firearms

Always verify final state guidance.

Certain exemptions and firearm descriptions are contained in Colorado statute language.

See:
Colorado Department of Revenue

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Where do I get official updates?

Official program information can be found at:

 

Colorado Parks and Wildlife SSF Program

 

Because implementation continues to evolve, always confirm current requirements before beginning the process.

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