[CalCCW03]

When I became a Realtor I started hearing about the perils that go along with the job. Individuals pretending to be buyers luring you to vacant houses so that they could rob and beat you, armed take downs of open houses, even reports of Realtors getting hit for the sensitive financial information our clients entrust us with.

I had always been interested in shooting sports and had a hand gun in my home for personal protection. I came to the realization that if I were to become a victim, it would most likely be outside of the home. In any case I started doing research on how to get a CCW license. When I started my search there were not many local resources that were able to give me pertinent information. CCW websites I frequented invariably said that it was next to impossible to get a CCW in California period. I had heard that Orange County was an exception but did not get any good advice on how to proceed. Throwing caution to the wind, I filled out my application...

As I would later find out, I was woefully unprpared. I showed up to the interview with the investigating officer with my application filled out and nothing more. I had a basic idea of how I would answer when asked about my Good Cause, but had nothing in writing. The interview went fairly well, but I did not feel confident.

About a week later I received a letter from the OCSD PSD stating that my application had been denied for "Lack of Good Cause". At this point I gave up hope.

A few months later I did alot of research online and started asking questions. I contacted CCWInstructor to see if he could help me. We spent quite alot of time on the phone and PM'ing back and forth until I had a rock solid Good Cause statement, plus a folder of information identifying violent crimes against Realtors over the past few years. I resubmitted my application to OCSD in the form of an appeal.

This information went (I think) directly to the Lt. in charge of final approval as I received a call from him to let me know that he had my information and that I was almost there but not quite. He asked if there was anything else I could include in my GC to get me over the edge. I told him that I was a member at my local range and frequently transported firearms and ammunition. He said that would do it and to look for my approval letter within a week.

Sure enough, a week or so later I got my "Approved for Further Processing" letter. I can't tell you what a load that was off my mind. I immediately started the Live Scan and training process (w/CCWInstructor of course).

I remember the day like it was yesterday. There was a BOR lunch scheduled; on my way to meet everyone I called PSD, I was told that everything came through OK and as soon as I had my guns (that were to go on the license) inspected at the armory I could come in and pick up my license. Not being one to miss out on won tons and congratulations I kept my plans to meet for lunch with the BOR. Unfortunately becaause I did this I missed my window at the armory and had to wait until the following day to get everything completed. Thankfully I was not accosted in that 24 hour period and today I am the proud holder af a California CCW license (LICENSE!!!)