Colorado SB25-003 Guide: SSF Training, Eligibility Cards, and What Gun Owners Need to Know

What Is Colorado SB25-003?

Colorado Senate Bill 25-003 is a state law that creates new eligibility and mandatory firearms safety training requirements for purchasing or transferring certain specified semiautomatic firearms (SSFs) in Colorado.

Gun rights and firearm safety are not partisan issues. Shoot Indoors believes responsible firearm ownership starts with clear education, safe training, and approachable instruction. This guide is designed to help Colorado residents understand SB25-003 without political spin or legal confusion.

Beginning August 1, 2026, many Colorado buyers will need to:

1. 1Apply for a Firearms Safety Course Eligibility Card through the state system.
2. 2Complete required background check steps through the county sheriff's process.
3. 3Enroll with a verified firearms safety instructor approved by the state.
4. 4Complete the required Basic or Extended firearms safety course in person.
5. 5Pass the exam and practical requirement to receive course completion.
6. 6Have your eligibility verified by the FFL at the time of purchase or transfer.

Step-by-Step: The SB25-003 Process

Based on current state guidance, here is how the process is expected to work. Steps and details may be updated as Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Department of Revenue finalize implementation.

Does Hunter Education Count?

Hunter Education may affect which course path you qualify for — but Hunter Education by itself does not satisfy the SB25-003 firearms safety course requirement.

• Completing Hunter Education may qualify you for the shorter Basic (4-hour) course path.
• Even with Hunter Education, you must still complete an SB25-003 approved course taught by a verified instructor.
• Hunter Education does not substitute for or replace the required SB25-003 course and exam.
• The instructor will verify which course path applies through the state system when you enroll.

Draft SSF Firearm List: Models Colorado Says May Be Covered

The Colorado Department of Revenue is required to publish guidance identifying firearm models that may fall under SB25-003. Colorado has released draft guidance listing specific firearms that may be covered.

⚠️ Data note: This table is populated from the Colorado Department of Revenue's draft SSF guidance document (Version 05/15/2026). Entries reflect models and series as listed in that document. The DOR's guidance document is subject to change. Verify the status of any specific firearm through official state sources, your FFL, and/or qualified legal counsel before relying on this list. Frames, receivers, and weapons parts kits for listed SSFs are also included in the SSF definition under Colorado law.

Where to Verify — Official State Resources

Always confirm current requirements through official Colorado state sources. These links go to government and agency websites.