New York State now requires all applicants for a Concealed Carry (CCW) license to complete an approved 18-hour training course, including 16 hours of classroom instruction and 2 hours of live-fire training. This course fully satisfies the requirements of NYS Penal Law §400.00(19), and all BVAC instructors are authorized under Penal Law §265.00(19) to deliver the training, testing, and live-fire qualifications.

At BVAC, students learn in a structured, safety-focused environment with professional instructors, hands-on skill development, and realistic Glock Simunition training (non-lethal training rounds). Whether you’re applying for your first permit or updating your training, this course provides the essential skills and knowledge required by New York State.

What’s Included in the NYS CCW Course

Firearm Safety & Safe Handling

Learn the fundamentals every responsible firearm owner must know, including:

• Proper loading and unloading

• Safe holstering and securing your firearm

• Clearing malfunctions

• Safe storage practices in compliance with NY law

• Transporting firearms legally and safely

These skills create the foundation for confident, responsible handgun ownership.

Use of Force, NYS Law, and Legal Responsibilities

Understanding the law is just as important as understanding the firearm.

You’ll learn:

• Where concealed firearms can and cannot be carried

• Sensitive and restricted locations under NYS law

• Duty to retreat and legal considerations

• What legally qualifies as self-defense

• What happens after a defensive incident—law enforcement response, legal review, and reporting

• Civil vs. criminal liability

Our instructors break down complex laws into practical, real-world guidance.

Threat Awareness, Risk Avoidance & De-escalation

The safest fight is the one you never have to engage in.

Training covers:

• Situational awareness strategies

• Identifying potential threats early

• Avoiding high-risk encounters

• Communication and de-escalation skills

• How stress and adrenaline affect decision-making

These principles help students prevent dangerous situations before they escalate.

Live-Fire Skills & Qualification

Students complete 2 hours of live-fire training using Glock Simunition pistols at our facility.

Training includes:

• Range safety and commands

• Shooting fundamentals (grip, stance, sight alignment, trigger control)

• Accuracy drills and skill refinement

• Basic defensive shooting concepts

• Instructor evaluation and coaching

Live-fire proficiency is documented for your permit application.

Written Exam & Passing Requirements

New York State requires:

• A minimum written exam score of 80%

• Successful demonstration of live-fire proficiency

BVAC prepares you thoroughly, ensuring you understand firearm safety, NYS law, and responsible carry practices.

Who Should Take This Course

This course is ideal for:

• First-time New York State Concealed Carry applicants

• Current permit holders needing updated or compliant training under the NYS CCIA requirements

• Responsible firearm owners who want professional, safety-focused instruction

No prior firearms experience is required—our instructors coach you at your skill level.

Documentation You’ll Receive

Upon successful completion, students will receive:

• Official verification of completed NYS 18-Hour Concealed Carry Training

• Certificates required for inclusion in your CCW license application

These documents meet all state-mandated submission requirements.

Train with BVAC – Professional, Safe, NYS-Compliant Instruction

BVAC Rescue Response Training Center has decades of experience training the public, first responders, and community members in safety, emergency response, and firearms handling. Our CCW instructors are certified, insured, and authorized under New York State law to deliver both the classroom and live-fire components of the course.

Frequently Asked Questions