In review of the statute discrepancy, the LSP has rescinded the amended reciprocal agreement with Florida. They expect the issue to be addressed in the upcoming legislative session. Florida permits will continued to be honored in Louisiana. I will post any updates here in the future.

Act 4 of the First Extraordinary Session of the 1996 Legislature amended and re-enacted R.S. 40:1379.3 providing for the issuance of statewide concealed handgun permits by the Deputy Secretary of the Department of Public Safety & Corrections (DPS). Obtaining a CHP in Louisiana requires a 9 hour certification course which covers:

• One hour of instruction on handgun nomenclature and safe handling procedures of a revolver and semi-automatic pistol;
• One hour of instruction on ammunition knowledge and fundamentals of pistol shooting;
• Three hours of instruction on the use of deadly force and conflict resolution which will include a review of R.S. 14:18 through 14:22 and which may include a review of any other laws relating to the use of deadly force;
• One hour of instruction on handgun shooting positions;
• One hour of instruction on child access prevention; and
• Two hours of actual live range fire and proper handgun cleaning procedures
  • Live range fire shall include 12 rounds each at 6 feet, 10 feet, and 15 feet for a total of 36 rounds;
  • Each applicant or permittee must perform at least one safe reload of the handgun at each distance;
  • Each applicant or permittee must score 100% hits within the silhouette portion of a NRA B-27 type silhouette target with a least 36 rounds

After completion of the required course, the applicant then sends in the application and required fees & documents. After passing the criminal and medical background check, the applicant will then be issued a permit.

A Louisiana CHP is valid for up to 4 years. When nearing expiration, the permit holder must take a re-certification class to apply for a renewal.