I’ve Never Shot a Gun Before. Should I Still Get My CCW?

If you’ve been thinking about getting your Nevada CCW but you’ve never—or barely ever—shot a gun, you may have a lot of questions.

Am I ready?

What if I’m nervous?

What if everyone else in the class knows more than I do?

What if I don’t even own a gun yet?

These are completely reasonable questions.

And the answer is simple:

You don’t need to already be an experienced shooter to start learning.

You do, however, need to take firearm ownership, safety, training, and the responsibilities that come with carrying a firearm seriously.

A concealed firearm permit isn’t a substitute for training. It’s one part of a much bigger responsibility.

For women who are considering a CCW in Las Vegas, the first step isn’t buying the perfect gun or becoming an expert at the range.

It’s learning.

What Is a CCW?

CCW stands for Concealed Carry Weapon. In Nevada, the permit allows an eligible person to carry a concealed firearm in accordance with Nevada law.

For Clark County residents, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) handles concealed firearm permits.

For a new application, LVMPD currently requires completion of a Nevada-certified firearms training course before submitting the application. The initial course is 8 hours and must include a live-fire qualification.

That means taking a CCW class isn’t simply about sitting in a classroom for eight hours.

You are learning about firearm safety, handling, laws and responsibilities, and demonstrating firearm proficiency.

I’ve Never Shot a Gun Before. Can I Still Take a CCW Class?

Yes, you can begin learning even if you’re inexperienced.

In fact, learning proper fundamentals from the beginning can be a much better starting point than developing habits on your own and trying to correct them later.

A good class should give you an environment where you can ask questions.

And women often have a LOT of questions.

That’s okay.

You should be able to ask:

• How do I safely handle a handgun?
• How do I know if a firearm is loaded?
• How do I safely store it?
• What does carrying concealed actually involve?
• What should I consider when choosing a firearm?
• What happens if I have to use it?
• What are the legal responsibilities?
• What should I practice after class?

There is no prize for pretending you already know everything.

What Gun Should a Woman Carry for Self-Defense?

This is one of the most common questions I hear.

And there isn’t one universal answer.

The firearm that works for one woman may not be the right choice for another.

Instead of choosing a firearm based solely on its size, color, popularity, or what someone on social media recommends, consider factors such as:

1. Can you safely handle it?

You should be able to operate the firearm safely and understand its controls.

2. Can you comfortably manage it?

Different firearms have different sizes, weights, controls, and recoil characteristics.

3. Can you operate it consistently?

A firearm is not useful to you if you don’t know how to safely operate it.

4. Can you practice with it?

Training and practice matter.

5. Can you store it securely?

Responsible ownership includes secure storage when the firearm is not under your direct control.

6. Does it fit your actual lifestyle?

How you dress, where you go, your comfort level, and how you intend to carry all matter.

Don’t buy a gun because someone tells you it’s “the perfect women’s gun.”

Learn first. Handle different options safely. Get qualified instruction. Then make an informed decision.

Do You Need to Own a Gun Before Taking a CCW Class?

Not necessarily.

If you are considering purchasing a firearm specifically for concealed carry, taking a class can actually help you understand what you’re getting into before making a purchase.

This is one reason I encourage women not to rush out and buy the first handgun someone recommends.

Your firearm is a serious piece of equipment.

You want something you can safely operate, maintain, store, and train with.

5 Things Women Should Know Before Taking a CCW Class

1. You Don’t Have to Be a “Gun Person”

You don’t need camouflage.

You don’t need to know every firearm manufacturer.

You don’t need to spend your weekends at the shooting range.

You don’t need to walk into class acting like you’ve been shooting since birth.

You simply need to be willing to learn.

2. Being Nervous Is Normal

If you’re nervous around firearms, that doesn’t automatically mean you shouldn’t learn.

Sometimes nervousness comes from unfamiliarity.

Education and supervised practice can help you replace uncertainty with knowledge.

The goal isn’t to make you reckless.

The goal is to make you educated, safe, and responsible.

3. Your CCW Class Is More Than Shooting

The live-fire portion is important, but it isn’t the entire purpose of your training.

The required course includes firearms safety and proficiency requirements, including safe handling and live-fire qualification.

You should leave class understanding that carrying a firearm comes with significant responsibility.

4. Your Training Shouldn’t End When Class Does

Getting your permit doesn’t magically make you proficient.

Think of your CCW class as a foundation.

Continued education, safe handling, appropriate practice, and staying current with applicable laws are all part of responsible firearm ownership.

5. You Should Understand the Laws

This is a big one.

Firearm laws can change, and there are federal, state, and local rules that may apply.

LVMPD specifically reminds applicants that they are responsible for understanding and complying with applicable federal, state, and local laws related to possession and concealed carry.

Your CCW class is an opportunity to learn—not an excuse to stop learning.

How Do You Get a CCW in Las Vegas?

For a Clark County resident applying for a new Nevada concealed firearm permit, the process generally starts with completing an approved Nevada CCW course.

LVMPD currently lists the following basic sequence:

Step 1: Complete an approved CCW course

The initial course is currently 8 hours and includes live-fire qualification.

Step 2: Complete your CCW application

LVMPD offers an online application option.

You will need the required identification and your completed Nevada firearms safety/proficiency certification.

Step 3: Submit the required fees

LVMPD currently lists a $60 new application fee and $39 FBI background-check fee, for a total of $99.

Step 4: Complete fingerprinting and the required appointment

LVMPD’s current process includes an in-person appointment where fingerprints and photographs are taken.

Step 5: Wait for processing

LVMPD states that Nevada law requires the application to be processed within 120 days.

Always check LVMPD’s current requirements before submitting your application because fees, procedures, and requirements can change.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a CCW in Nevada?

There are several costs to consider.

Your training course has its own fee, and LVMPD currently lists $99 in application and FBI background-check fees for a new permit.

You should also consider costs associated with:

• Firearm
• Ammunition
• Secure storage
• Practice
• Appropriate carry equipment
• Additional training

The permit itself is only one part of becoming a responsible concealed carrier.

What Should I Bring to a CCW Class?

Your instructor should give you specific instructions before class.

Depending on the course, you may need items such as:

• Government-issued identification
• Firearm, if instructed to bring one
• Appropriate ammunition
• Eye and ear protection
• Comfortable clothing
• Closed-toe shoes
• Water and food for a full day of training

Always follow the specific instructions from your instructor regarding firearms and ammunition.

What Happens During a Women’s CCW Class?

At Defense in Heels, we don’t expect you to walk through the door already knowing everything.

Our goal is to create a space where women can learn without feeling embarrassed to ask questions.

We cover the knowledge and skills required for the course while emphasizing safe, responsible firearm handling and practical education.

You’ll have an opportunity to learn, ask questions, practice appropriate skills, and complete the required qualification.

And yes—there will probably be a few moments where you think:

“Okay, I was WAY overthinking this.”

That’s normal.

Why Take a Women’s CCW Class?

Women sometimes have a different set of concerns when they are learning about concealed carry.

You may have questions about:

• Concealment with women’s clothing
• Carrying while wearing dresses
• Handbags and purses
• Different body types
• Comfort
• Firearm selection
• Storage around children
• Transportation
• Traveling
• Situational awareness
• What happens after you use a firearm
• Building confidence without becoming careless

Those questions deserve to be taken seriously.

A women-focused environment can make it easier to ask the questions you actually have.

CCW Doesn’t Mean You Have to Carry Everywhere

Getting a permit doesn’t mean you have to carry a firearm every moment of every day.

It means you’ve taken steps to become educated about concealed firearm ownership and the legal responsibilities associated with it.

Your personal decisions about whether, when, and how you carry should be based on your training, applicable law, circumstances, and comfort level.

What Happens After You Get Your CCW?

Your training doesn’t stop when you receive your permit.

In fact, that’s when your responsibility really begins.

Continue learning.

Practice appropriately.

Maintain your equipment.

Review applicable laws.

Learn about safe storage.

And consider continuing education beyond the minimum required course.

A permit isn’t a magic card that makes someone proficient.

Training is a process.

Ready to Start Your CCW Journey?

Maybe you’ve been thinking about getting your CCW for months.

Maybe you bought a handgun but still don’t feel completely comfortable with it.

Maybe you’ve never touched a firearm and don’t know where to begin.

You don’t have to know everything before you start.

You just need to start with the right education.

Defense in Heels Women’s CCW Classes

We teach women in Las Vegas how to approach firearms with knowledge, safety, confidence, and responsibility.

Whether you’re experienced or you’re starting from scratch, my goal is for you to leave class with a stronger understanding of what it means to responsibly own and carry a firearm.

Ready to take the next step?

[VIEW UPCOMING WOMEN’S CCW CLASSES →]

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can a woman with no shooting experience get a CCW?

A person does not need to be an experienced shooter before beginning the required training. However, applicants must meet the applicable eligibility requirements and successfully complete the required Nevada-certified training and firearms qualification.

How long is a Nevada CCW class?

For a new Clark County CCW application, LVMPD currently requires an 8-hour course that includes live-fire qualification.

How old do you have to be to get a CCW in Nevada?

LVMPD currently states that applicants must generally be 21 or older, with an exception for qualifying military applicants age 18 or older.

Do I have to own a gun before taking a CCW class?

Not necessarily. Ask your instructor about the specific equipment requirements for the class you are considering.

How much does a Nevada CCW cost?

The Defense in Heels CCW class is $149. LVMPD currently lists $60 for a new application and $39 for the FBI background check, totaling $99 in those two fees. Training and firearm-related costs are separate.

Where do I apply for a CCW in Las Vegas?

Clark County residents apply through LVMPD. LVMPD provides both application information and an online application process.

Is a CCW the same thing as firearm training?

No. A permit and training are different things. Responsible firearm ownership should involve continued education and practice beyond the minimum requirements for obtaining a permit.

Ready to learn?

[See Upcoming Women’s CCW Classes →]

Information about Nevada CCW requirements can change. This article is for general educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with LVMPD and applicable Nevada and federal law.