Countrywide Concealed Reviews & Complaints: Is It Legit? Cost & Permit Details in the USA 

Countrywide Concealed Reviews – Countrywide Concealed is an online service that offers firearm safety training and certification for concealed carry permits, with lessons taught by certified instructor Randy Picou. While the program covers essential topics like handgun safety, ammunition, shooting fundamentals, and maintenance, its legitimacy depends on state-specific licensing requirements.

Here is the Official Website: CLICK TO VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Countrywide Concealed Reviews

In the United States, the right to carry a concealed firearm comes with legal requirements that vary by state. Many online services claim to simplify the process of obtaining a concealed carry permit, and one such service is Countrywide Concealed. It advertises an easy and fast way to get certified for a concealed carry permit through an online application process. However, with growing concerns about online scams and misleading permit services, it’s essential to verify whether Countrywide Concealed is a legitimate provider or a potential risk for unsuspecting applicants.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of Countrywide Concealed, examining its legitimacy, customer reviews, complaints, pricing, and permit validity. We’ll analyze feedback from real users, break down the costs involved, and determine whether the permits offered by this service are legally recognized across different states. If you’re considering using Countrywide Concealed for your concealed carry certification, this detailed guide will help you make an informed decision.

What is Countrywide Concealed?

Countrywide Concealed is an online service that claims to assist individuals in obtaining a concealed carry permit through a simplified digital process. The company advertises itself as a convenient alternative to traditional in-person training and application procedures, allowing users to complete the necessary steps from the comfort of their homes.

According to its website, Countrywide Concealed offers an online educational course designed to help applicants meet the training requirements for a concealed carry permit. The process typically involves:

• Taking an Online Course – Users are required to go through firearm safety and legal responsibility training.
• Passing a Certification Test – After completing the course, applicants must pass an online test to demonstrate their knowledge.
• Receiving a Certificate – Those who pass the test receive a certificate, which can be used to apply for a concealed carry permit in certain states.

The company promotes itself as a time-saving and cost-effective solution for gun owners who want to legally carry concealed firearms. However, its legitimacy and the acceptance of its permits vary depending on state laws. Many states have specific requirements, including in-person training and background checks, which raise questions about whether an online-only certification meets official licensing standards.

Course Instructor and Curriculum

Countrywide Concealed features a certified instructor, Randy Picou, who teaches the lessons included in the training program. The course covers essential firearm safety and handling topics, such as:

1. Rules of Handgun Safety – Understanding safe handling and responsible firearm ownership.
2. Handgun Uses and Structure – Learning about different types of handguns and their intended uses.
3. Ammunition – Detailed information on ammunition types, storage, and handling.
4. Fundamentals of Shooting – Instruction on proper grip, stance, aiming, and shooting techniques.
5. Maintenance and Cleaning – Guidelines for maintaining a firearm for safety and longevity.

This structured curriculum is designed to provide foundational knowledge on firearm use and safety, helping applicants meet the training requirements for a concealed carry permit in select states.

Is Countrywide Concealed Legit?

When considering an online service for obtaining a concealed carry permit, one of the most important factors is legitimacy. Many websites claim to offer fast and easy firearm certifications, but not all of them are recognized by state authorities. To determine whether Countrywide Concealed is a legitimate service or a potential scam, we need to examine its background, licensing, and customer trust signals.

Background Check of the Company

Countrywide Concealed presents itself as an educational platform that provides online certification for concealed carry permits. However, unlike state-run licensing agencies, it does not directly issue permits. Instead, it claims to offer training that can help applicants meet the requirements for a permit in certain states.

A search into the company’s background reveals mixed feedback from customers. While some users report receiving their certification smoothly, others express concerns about misleading advertising and unclear policies. Additionally, there is limited publicly available information about the company’s ownership, location, or affiliations with official government agencies, which raises red flags for potential applicants.

Official Licensing and Accreditation 

One of the most crucial aspects of evaluating legitimacy is official accreditation. As of now, there is no clear evidence that Countrywide Concealed is recognized by state or federal firearm regulatory bodies. Most states require concealed carry applicants to complete state-approved training, undergo background checks, and submit applications through official government channels. 

While Countrywide Concealed provides an online training course, many states do not accept online-only certifications for concealed carry permits. This means that applicants might still need to fulfill additional state-specific requirements, such as in-person training and fingerprinting, before obtaining a valid permit. 

Customer Trust Signals 

To gauge the reliability of Countrywide Concealed, it’s important to analyze customer trust signals, such as: 

• Better Business Bureau (BBB) Ratings: A check on the BBB website shows complaints related to unclear refund policies and misleading advertisements. Some users claim they were led to believe they were purchasing a state-approved permit, only to later find out it was just an online training certificate. 

• Website Security: The company uses a secure website with HTTPS encryption, which helps protect user information. However, secure payment processing alone does not guarantee legitimacy. 

• Refund Policies: Countrywide Concealed does mention a refund policy, but some customers report difficulties in obtaining refunds, citing unclear terms and conditions. 

Countrywide Concealed Reviews 

When evaluating the reliability of Countrywide Concealed, one of the best ways to assess its credibility is through customer feedback. Reviews from various platforms like Trustpilot, Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Reddit provide insights into real user experiences—both positive and negative. While some customers appreciate the ease of obtaining their certification, others raise concerns about misleading claims, unexpected fees, and legal validity issues. 

Positive Reviews: What Users Liked 

Several customers have shared positive experiences with Countrywide Concealed, particularly highlighting: 

✔ Convenience & Ease of Use – Many users found the online process simple and hassle-free. The ability to complete the training and certification from home without attending in-person classes was a major advantage for some. 

✔ Fast Certification – Some reviewers praised the service for providing immediate certification upon completing the course and test. For those looking for quick training, the platform delivered as promised. 

✔ Informative Course Content – A few users noted that the online training was educational and well-structured, covering basic firearm safety and concealed carry laws. 

✔ Affordable Pricing (Initially) – Compared to traditional in-person courses, some customers found the upfront cost of the online certification to be relatively inexpensive. 

Negative Reviews: Common Complaints and Concerns 

However, negative reviews also reveal significant concerns that potential customers should be aware of: 

❌ Misleading Advertising – One of the most common complaints is that Countrywide Concealed does not actually issue concealed carry permits. Many users assumed they were receiving a state-approved license, only to find out later that they still needed to complete additional steps through their state’s official agency. 

❌ Hidden Fees & Upselling – Some customers reported that while the initial cost seemed low, additional fees appeared later in the process. This led to frustration as the final price was much higher than expected. 

❌ Legal Recognition Issues – In many states, online-only concealed carry training is not accepted. Several users mentioned they had trouble using the certification for an official permit application. This was especially problematic for those who purchased the service under the assumption that it met state requirements. 

❌ Difficult Refund Process – Multiple complaints on BBB and Trustpilot indicate that users had trouble obtaining refunds after realizing the certification was not what they expected. The company’s refund policy appears to have strict conditions, making it hard for customers to get their money back. 

❌ Poor Customer Support – Several negative reviews mentioned slow response times and unhelpful customer service when trying to get assistance or clarify concerns. Some users stated that their inquiries were ignored or that they received generic responses. 

Common Complaints About Countrywide Concealed 

While Countrywide Concealed markets itself as a fast and easy way to obtain a concealed carry certification, many customers have reported various issues with the service. Complaints range from processing delays and misleading advertising to hidden fees and poor customer support. Below are some of the most frequently mentioned problems by users. 

1. Issues with Processing and Approvals 

One of the biggest complaints from customers is that Countrywide Concealed does not actually issue a concealed carry permit. Instead, it provides an online training certificate, which may or may not be valid in certain states. Many users who purchased the service under the impression that they were getting a state-approved permit later discovered that they still needed to go through their state’s official licensing process. 

Some users also mentioned delays in receiving their certificates after completing the online test, despite the company’s promise of instant certification. 

2. Misleading Advertisements or Unclear Policies 

Many customers feel that Countrywide Concealed’s marketing is misleading, giving the impression that their certification is equivalent to a legally recognized permit. While the company does include disclaimers on its website, they are often buried in fine print, leading some users to believe they are purchasing a fully valid concealed carry permit instead of just an online course certificate. 

Another common issue is unclear refund policies. Some customers claimed that after realizing the service was not what they expected, they tried to request a refund but were denied or given the runaround. The company’s terms and conditions appear to have strict refund limitations, which are not always clearly communicated upfront. 

3. Customer Service Experiences 

Many users have criticized the company’s customer support, reporting that it is difficult to reach representatives or get clear answers. Some key complaints include: 

• Slow or no response to emails and phone calls. 

• Generic responses instead of personalized assistance. 

• Unhelpful support when requesting refunds or clarifications. 

A number of customers mentioned that once they realized the certification was not a legally recognized permit, they tried to contact customer service but either never received a response or were told they were ineligible for a refund. 

4. Hidden Fees or Unexpected Charges 

Another major issue raised by users is unexpected costs that appear later in the process. While the company often advertises a low initial fee, some customers reported being charged additional fees for things like: 

• “Expedited processing” 

• “Official documentation” 

• “Additional certification options” 

These extra charges led to frustration, as some users felt they were misled about the total cost of obtaining a concealed carry permit. Additionally, several people claimed that the service tried to upsell unnecessary add-ons that did not provide any real value. 

Cost of Countrywide Concealed Services 

One of the most important factors for anyone considering Countrywide Concealed is the total cost of using their service. While the company advertises a relatively low price for its online certification, many customers report encountering unexpected fees throughout the process. In this section, we’ll break down the costs associated with Countrywide Concealed, compare them to official state fees, and examine whether there are any hidden charges. 

Breakdown of Fees for Countrywide Concealed’s Process 

Countrywide Concealed promotes itself as an affordable way to obtain a concealed carry certification online. The cost typically includes: 

1. Online Training Course & Test – The base price for taking the course and passing the online exam is often advertised as $65 to $100. 

2. Certification Fee – Once you pass the test, you may need to pay an additional fee to receive your digital certificate. Some customers reported this fee being around $25 to $50. 

3. Optional Upgrades – There are additional costs for expedited processing, printed certificates, and other services that can increase the total price significantly. 

Many users have reported that while they expected to pay a one-time fee, they encountered additional charges before completing the process. Some even claimed that they had to pay again to access their final certification document. 

Comparison with Official State Fees 

To determine whether Countrywide Concealed offers real value, it’s important to compare its pricing with state-approved concealed carry permit fees. The actual cost of a concealed carry permit varies by state, but typically includes: 

• State Application Fees – These range from $40 to $150, depending on the state. 

• Mandatory Training Course – Many states require an in-person firearms training course, which costs $50 to $200 on average. 

• Fingerprinting & Background Checks – Some states charge $20 to $50 for fingerprinting and background processing. 

In many cases, state-approved training and permit costs are similar or only slightly higher than the fees charged by Countrywide Concealed. However, the key difference is that official state courses guarantee legal recognition, whereas Countrywide Concealed’s certification may not be valid in many states. 

Are There Additional or Hidden Costs? 

Many customers have raised concerns about hidden fees associated with Countrywide Concealed. Some of the most commonly reported extra charges include: 

• Upselling of Expedited Services – Users may be prompted to pay an additional fee for faster processing, even though digital certification should be instant. 

• Printing & Documentation Fees – Some customers reported being charged more for a physical copy of their certification. 

• “Premium” Services – There have been claims that after purchasing the initial certification, users were encouraged to pay more money for other unspecified services. 

Permit Details: What You Get 

When purchasing a certification from Countrywide Concealed, it’s essential to understand exactly what you’re receiving and how it differs from a state-issued concealed carry permit. Many customers assume they are obtaining a fully valid concealed carry permit, but in reality, Countrywide Concealed only provides an online training certificate, which may not be recognized by most states. Below, we’ll break down the specifics of what they offer, its validity across states, and how it compares to an actual concealed carry permit. 

Overview of the Permit They Provide 

Countrywide Concealed does not issue a government-approved concealed carry permit. Instead, they offer: 

An Online Course & Certification – After completing a basic firearm safety training online, users receive a certificate of completion. 
A Digital or Printed Certificate – This certificate can be downloaded or, in some cases, printed and shipped for an additional fee. 
General Firearm Safety Education – The course covers basic firearm handling, safety rules, and legal considerations. 

However, this is not an official concealed carry license, and completing their program does not automatically grant you the legal right to carry a concealed firearm in most states. 

Validity: Which States Accept It? 

The biggest concern with Countrywide Concealed’s certification is whether it holds any legal weight. Most states have strict requirements for concealed carry permits, including in-person training, background checks, and fingerprinting—none of which are included in Countrywide Concealed’s process. 

• Some states may allow online training as part of the application process, but they still require official approval from a state agency. 

• Many states do not accept online-only certification and require in-person firearm safety training. 

• Even in states that allow online courses, you must still apply through the proper state channels to receive a legally recognized permit. 

Before purchasing from Countrywide Concealed, it’s important to verify your state’s requirements directly through your local law enforcement or official government website. 

Difference Between a Real Concealed Carry Permit and What Countrywide Concealed Offers 

Feature	State-Issued Concealed Carry Permit	Countrywide Concealed Certification
Legally recognized in the state?	✅ Yes	❌ No (in most states)
Requires background check?	✅ Yes	❌ No
Requires fingerprinting?	✅ Yes	❌ No
Requires in-person training?	✅ In most states	❌ No (fully online)
Grants legal right to carry concealed firearm?	✅ Yes	❌ No
Issued by state government?	✅ Yes	❌ No

As shown in the table, a true concealed carry permit requires state approval, background checks, and in-person training, while Countrywide Concealed only provides a training certificate. 

Alternative Ways to Get a Concealed Carry Permit 

If you’re looking to legally carry a concealed firearm in the U.S., the best approach is to go through official state-approved channels. Each state has its own process, fees, and requirements for obtaining a concealed carry permit (CCP). Below, we’ll break down the official process, compare costs and processing times, and explore whether online certification is a viable alternative to in-person training. 

Official State-Wise Concealed Carry Application Process 

The process of obtaining a concealed carry permit varies by state but generally includes the following steps: 

1. Check Your State’s Requirements – Some states have more lenient gun laws (e.g., constitutional carry states), while others require strict background checks and training. 

2. Complete Required Firearm Training – Most states require an in-person safety training course, though a few allow online certification as part of the process. 

3. Submit an Application – You must apply through your state’s law enforcement agency or a designated government department. 

4. Undergo a Background Check – The FBI or state agency will review your criminal history and eligibility. 

5. Provide Fingerprints – Many states require fingerprint submission for verification. 

6. Pay the Required Fees – These vary by state (details below). 

7. Wait for Approval – Processing times depend on the state but typically range from a few weeks to several months. 

Each state has different rules, so checking your local laws is crucial. Some states have reciprocity agreements, meaning your permit may be valid in multiple states, while others require you to apply separately. 

Comparison of Costs and Processing Time 

State	Application Fee	Processing Time	Training Requirement
Texas	$40	60–90 days	In-person or online + range test
Florida	$97	50–90 days	In-person only
Virginia	$50	45–60 days	Online option available
California	Varies by county	90–120 days	In-person only
Ohio	$67	45 days	In-person only
Arizona	$60	75 days	In-person or online

The cost of a state-issued concealed carry permit is often similar to or lower than the total cost of services like Countrywide Concealed, but with the added benefit of legal recognition. 

Online vs. In-Person Certification Options 

• Online Training (Limited States) 
  ✅ Faster and more convenient 
  ✅ Can be done from home 
  ❌ May not be accepted in all states 
  ❌ Lacks hands-on firearm training 

• In-Person Training (Most States Require This) 
  ✅ Legally valid in most states 
  ✅ Includes hands-on firearm safety practice 
  ❌ Requires scheduling and travel 
  ❌ Can be more expensive than online courses 

Final Verdict: Should You Use Countrywide Concealed? 

After reviewing Countrywide Concealed’s services, legitimacy, customer feedback, costs, and permit details, it’s clear that while the company offers a basic online firearm safety certification, it does not provide a valid concealed carry permit in most states. Below, we summarize the key findings and help you determine whether their service is right for you. 

Summary of Findings 

✔ What They Offer: Countrywide Concealed provides an online course and certification that serves as proof of firearm safety training but is not a substitute for a state-issued concealed carry permit. 
✔ Legitimacy Concerns: While they are a real company, their marketing may mislead users into believing they are purchasing a legally recognized permit when, in reality, it’s just an educational certification. 
✔ Customer Reviews & Complaints: Many customers report misleading advertising, unexpected fees, and difficulties obtaining refunds. 
✔ Cost vs. Value: Their service costs $65 to $100, with additional fees for documentation. Many official state permits have comparable fees but provide a legally valid license. 
✔ Permit Validity: The certificate from Countrywide Concealed is not accepted as a concealed carry permit in most states, making it useless for individuals seeking legal concealed carry rights. 

Who Might Benefit from Their Service? 

• Individuals looking for basic firearm safety education – If you’re a beginner and want an online introduction to firearm handling, this course might provide some value. 
   

• People in states that allow online certification as part of the permit process – A few states may accept online courses as a prerequisite, but you’ll still need to apply through official channels. 
   

• Gun owners looking for an extra certification for personal records – While not legally recognized in most cases, some individuals might find it useful as a supplemental safety credential. 

Is It Worth the Cost, or Should You Opt for State-Approved Methods? 

If you are looking for a real, legally recognized concealed carry permit, Countrywide Concealed is NOT worth it. Instead, you should: 

• Check your state’s official concealed carry requirements. 

• Take a state-approved training course (in-person or online where permitted). 

• Submit an application through your state’s law enforcement agency. 

• Pay the official state fees to obtain a valid concealed carry permit. 

💡 Final Recommendation: While Countrywide Concealed’s course might serve as an educational resource, it does not provide a valid concealed carry license in most states. For anyone serious about carrying a firearm legally, it’s best to go through the proper state channels to avoid legal issues and unnecessary expenses. 

Conclusion 

When it comes to obtaining a concealed carry permit, doing it the right way matters. Countrywide Concealed offers an easy online certification, and a Certified Instructor Randy Picou teaches you this. it is not a substitute for a state-issued concealed carry permit. Many users have been misled by unclear marketing, unexpected fees, and the false impression that completing their course grants legal concealed carry rights. 

Final Thoughts and Recommendations 

• If you’re looking for legally valid concealed carry certification, your best option is to apply through your state’s official process. 
   

• Always check your state’s firearm laws and permit requirements before investing in any third-party service. 
   

• Be wary of online programs that claim to offer a quick and easy way to get a concealed carry permit—in most cases, they only provide a basic safety certificate, which may not be recognized by state authorities. 

Check Official State Requirements First 

Before considering Countrywide Concealed or any similar service, take the time to verify your state’s laws through official government websites or law enforcement agencies. This will help you avoid wasting money on unrecognized certifications and ensure you receive a permit that grants you real legal rights. 

Bottom Line: If your goal is to legally carry a concealed firearm, go through official state-approved channels—it may take more effort, but it guarantees compliance with the law and prevents unnecessary risks.