[Note: Jerry Stratton ([j--r--y] at [teetot.acusd.edu]) put this here. He is not
affiliated with the San Diego Sheriff's Department in any way.]

*Point Blank Answers*
to your questions about Concealed Weapons Licenses

As a service to San Diego residents, this brochure answers
    some of the questions you have regarding Concealed
    Weapons Licenses; who is eligible, how much it costs,
    how to apply, etc.
    
Every year my department processes over 2,000 concealed
    weapons applications to private citizens like yourself.
    If you plan to apply for a Concealed Weapons License,
    please take a moment to read the information in this
    brochure.
    
It may have just the answers you need.
    
Jim Roache, Sheriff
    
Q:  Who needs a Concealed Weapons License?
    
A.  Anyone who wishes to carry a concealed pistol, revolver
    or any other firearm capable of being concealed upon a
    person or in a vehicle.
    
Q.  How do I apply?
    
A.  Interviews are conducted Monday through Friday from 8
    a.m. to 4 p.m. in the License Division of the Sheriff's
    Department, 9621 Ridgehaven Court, San Diego, CA 92123.
    
Q.  What do I have to bring with me?
    
A.  Verification of current legal residence within San
    Diego County and three letters of character reference
    from _local_ residents, none of whom may be related to
    you.
    
    Letters must contain the address and day-time telephone
    number of each reference as well as a statement that
    they are aware the letter will be used as part of your
    application for a Concealed Weapons License. It will be
    determined at the time of your interview what
    additional items will be required.
    
Q.  I only intend to carry the weapon in connection with
    business. Do I still need these documents?
    
A.  Yes. IF YOU ARE SELF-EMPLOYED, in addition to your
    verification of residence and letters of character
    reference, we require copies of:
    
     (1)  Your current business license or most recent business
         tax return;
         
     (2)  Fictitious Name filing and/or corporate papers (if
         applicable);
         
     (3)  If your business is a partnership, a letter of
         authorization signed by all partners. If you don't own the
         business and your employer wants you to carry a gun, you
         will need to provide a letter of authorization on company
         letterhead, signed by your employer, outlining your duties
         and the reason you need to be armed.
         
Q.  How soon will I get my license?
    
A.  Normal processing time is 8-10 weeks after range
    testing, fingerprinting and acceptance of your
    application.
    
Q.  Why so long?
    
A.  This 8-10 week period is to allow for an extensive
    criminal history investigation at the local and state
    level which is conducted on all applicants.
    
Q.  How long is the license valid?
    
A.  One year.
    
Q.  What is the basis for deciding whether or not you will
    issue me a license?
    
A.  Three criteria must be met (as required by state law):
    
     (1)  Good moral character
         
     (2)  Residence in San Diego County
         
(3)  Good cause must exist
Q.  What constitutes "good cause"?
    
A.  Good cause justification will be evaluated based upon
    individual merits and prudent judgement. What is a good
    cause for one applicant may not be a good cause for
    another due to varying circumstances.
    
Q.  I have a Concealed Weapons License from Fresno. Can I
    get it renewed here or have it transferred?
    
A.  No. Concealed Weapons Licenses issued in one county may
    not be renewed in or transferred to another county.
    
Q.  I am a private security guard. Do I need any additional
    documents?
    
A.  If you work in uniform and carry your weapon exposed,
    you do not need a Concealed Weapons License; however,
    you _must_ carry a valid Firearms Qualification Permit
    and Guard Registration Card issued by the State Office
    of Consumer Affairs.
    
    If you work in plain clothes and your weapon is not
    exposed, you _will_ need a Concealed Weapons License
    _in addition_ to the above registration cards from the
    state.
    
Q.  Will there be any restrictions on my license?
    
A.  The California Penal Code authorizes the Sheriff to
    apply any reasonable restrictions or conditions
    considered necessary.
    
Q.  Is there a fee?
    
A.  Yes. Fees are paid when you submit your application.
    For information on the current fee and the application
    process, contact the License Division at the number
    below.
    
NOTE: Further information is available from the License
      Division of the San Diego County Sheriff's Department,
      9621 Ridgehaven Court, San Diego, CA 92123
      (619) 974-2020