NRA Pistol Instructor
Become a certified NRA Pistol Instructor and teach the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting.
Please use your FULL name when registering for the courses. We use our scheduling software to download and create the certificates after all courses. If you have a middle initial enter it as well to avoid duplicate entries. This is IMPORTANT to have your certificate complete. Do NOT use short versions of your name. Thank you.
Take the Next Step!
The NRA Pistol Instructor course certifies you to teach the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting. This instructor-level training combines the NRA Basic Instructor Training (BIT) methodology with the discipline-specific Pistol Instructor course, qualifying you to instruct students in the fundamentals of pistol shooting.
Course Overview
This instructor-level course prepares experienced shooters to teach the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting. Through a combination of classroom instruction, teaching methodology, and live-fire range time, you will learn how to deliver the NRA curriculum safely and effectively to new students.
Topics include NRA instructor training methodology, using the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting lesson plans, teaching pistol shooting fundamentals, evaluating student performance, conducting live-fire exercises, and the NRA instructor role and responsibilities. Successful candidates are certified to teach the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting course.
Two days. Classroom + live-fire range time. Prerequisite: NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting.
NRA PISTOL INSTRUCTOR
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2 Days | Instructor Level
Requirements to Attend
- Be at least 21 years of age for certified instructors (instructors under 21 can still attend to be certified as assistant or apprentice instructors depending on the age of the instructor candidate)
- Be a lawful, non-prohibited person able to possess firearms
- Have completed the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting course
- Demonstrate safe gun handling and marksmanship fundamentals
- Be of good moral character with a clean background
Fee is all inclusive. No hidden fees, additional costs, or pricing mark ups. Firearm and ammunition rentals are available on site.
What to Bring
Classroom:
- • Note-taking materials
- • Your NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting certificate
- • Open mind and willingness to learn
Live-Fire Range:
- • A pistol (rentals available on site)
- • 200 rounds of factory ammunition
- • Eye and ear protection
- • Comfortable, range-appropriate clothing
- • Closed-toe shoes
Rental Info
Rentals are available on a first come first served basis.
Firearms we carry for students are Glock 17, 19, 21, 22, 23, Springfield XD9, Ruger GP Revolver.
Ammo for rentals will be based on market value when purchased and generally varies between $25 - $40 per box of 50 rounds depending on maker, caliber, and availability.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is the NRA Pistol Instructor course?
This course certifies you to teach the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting as a certified NRA instructor. It combines the NRA Basic Instructor Training (BIT) with the discipline-specific Pistol Instructor course, qualifying you to instruct students in the fundamentals of pistol shooting.
What are the prerequisites?
You must first complete the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting course. You must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary for safe pistol handling, and pass a pre-course qualification evaluation of your shooting ability and a instructor-led interview.
What does the course cover?
The course covers NRA instructor training methodology, using the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting lesson plans, teaching pistol shooting fundamentals, evaluating student performance, conducting live-fire exercises, and the NRA instructor role and responsibilities. Successful candidates are certified to teach the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting course.
How long is the course?
The course is approximately 2 days, which includes the BIT (Basic Instructor Training) module and the discipline-specific Pistol Instructor course. Both classroom instruction and live-fire range time are included.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. Upon successful completion you will be certified as an NRA Pistol Instructor, registered through the NRA. This certification allows you to teach the NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting course to students.
Can this certification help me become a California DOJ CCW instructor?
Yes. The NRA Pistol Instructor certification is part of the pathway to becoming a California DOJ-certified CCW instructor. Combined with the required DOJ application and live-fire qualification, this certification supports your instructor qualifications.
What if I don't see a date that works for me?
Call us at 310-650-6896 — we often have the next date already in the works, and private training is available.
Don't see a date that works? Call us at 310-650-6896
Range Location & Map
Lopez Canyon Shooting Range, Sylmar, CA
Directions and address will be provided upon booking a course. It is approximately 10 minutes' drive from our classrooms.

Important Notes:
- • When you are driving on the dirt keep speeds under 10mph.
- • For classes and qualifications, we will be on the lower ranges. As soon as you cross the wooden bridge, we are immediately to the right on the first driveway.
- • You may bring your equipment to the bay, do not uncase until instructed to do so. Firearms may not be hand carried from the car.
- • Do not load magazines until instructed to do so.
Facilities Available:
- • Private range, there is no access for public shooters.
- • Women's and Men's restrooms available.
- • Shade and seated areas.
- • Wheelchair ramp ADA accessible.
- • There are no ammunition vendors on site. All rental or range equipment must be requested ahead of time. Eye protection and hearing protection first come, first served.
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Get In Touch
Ready to start your training? Contact us today to schedule a course or ask any questions.

