The purpose of this article is to inform retired LASD sworn personnel of the current Department procedures to certify them under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004. This federal law allows honorably retired law enforcement officers to carry a concealed firearm nationwide, but requires annual proficiency certification. The LASD Weapons Training Unit has developed a firearms test for retired members who wish to take advantage of the privileges afforded to them under the law.
(Active-duty personnel should refer to Sheriff’s Bulletin #523 and the Field Operations Support Services Newsletter, Volume 4, Number 25, for further information.)
Annual Qualification
The Department firearms proficiency test for retirees assesses general firearms safety and proficiency in the handling and firing of a weapon. It is available to any retired LASD deputy who retired in good standing. California residency is not required.
The Biscailuz Center Armory has HR-218 testing by appointment every Thursday at 11 a.m. For retirees visiting from out of state or Northern California, you can contact the range at (323) 267-2730 to arrange a special appointment.
HR-218 testing is also conducted during the annual Retiree Roundup in Laughlin; however, the Department is not allowed to sell ammunition in Nevada.
Retired personnel who successfully complete the firearms proficiency test will immediately be issued a certification card, which is valid for one year from the date of certification. Retirees must carry this card with their Department identification.
Additional Information
- The Sheriff has directed that the firearms proficiency test and annual certification be provided at no cost to LASD retirees. BC personnel will supply .38, 9mm, .380 and .45 caliber ammunition for the test, free of charge. For other calibers, you will need to bring your own ammunition. Due to changes in California law, the Department is no longer allowed to sell ammunition.
- Retirees who do not wish to carry a concealed firearm outside of California do not have to qualify under the federal law. However, if they wish to continue carrying in California only, they must renew their CCW permit through Personnel Administration as currently required, not through the Weapons Training Unit.
- Only LASD retirees can be HR-218 certified at the Biscailuz Center Armory or at the annual Retiree Roundup in Laughlin.
- HR-218 allows for LASD retirees living in other states to be certified by that state if the state offers such a test. Retirees living out of state should contact their local law enforcement agency to determine if such a test is available.
Any questions regarding the contents of this article may be directed to the Biscailuz Center Range at (323) 267-2730.