Any tips on getting your CCW? As far as what to put on the application why you need it, Im planning on getting one this yr.
Look up your state on
Concealed Carry - Resources, Maps, Forums, Articles - USA Carry
It varies by state and even by county usually. In general, you probably need to go to a county office or local sheriff to hand in your application and payment in person, not by mail. You usually need two forms of government ID and the names of several personal character references that are not immediate family members. Some states fingerprint you, some don't. Some places like NYC have their own gun laws even more strict than most of the rest of the state at large.
If your state has a "shall issue" time period (in PA it is 45 days I think), they have to approve/reject your app in that time or you automatically get a permit. In non "shall issue" states like NY your ass can be waiting months or even 1 year+ to get a CCW approved unless you know someone like the county sheriff or judge who can help expedite it. NY state is notorious (like Cali) for having strict state gun laws and laws varying by county above that. For example, many NY counties require your personal references live in
that county and have known you for 2+ years. So if you just moved there unless you knew somebody you have to basically wait 2 years.
One you get a CCW know the law and know there are some places you cannot take it. Every year some idiot takes a concealed gun to the AIRPORT SECURITY LINE. Though technically you are in a grey area with a concealed weapon in the airport terminal outside of security (I sure as hell would not) you are arrested if you try to take a loaded gun through security. You can typically have a concealed gun in the car at the airport if you are doing drop off/picking up or even if you leave it concealed in the car in the parking lot. Also public offices, schools, and even certain businesses can make you leave your gun outside.
Also if you want to carry on your person, buy a real holster. Only keep a gun in your pocket or jacket if you don't mind losing body parts.