Live Fire Instruction

NRA Basic Pistol Course in Fairfax, VA

Join our certified instructors at the world-class NRA Headquarters Range in Fairfax, Virginia, for a comprehensive, 6-hour hands-on firearms safety and marksmanship training program. Whether you are a total beginner who has never held a handgun or an experienced shooter looking to refine your fundamentals and obtain formal certification, this course provides everything you need in a supportive, safety-focused environment.

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Classroom Materials
Firearms Provided
Certified Instructors
NRA Basic Pistol Course Fairfax VA

Course Overview: What You Will Learn

Our NRA Basics of Pistol Shooting curriculum blends classroom theory, hands-on mechanical operation, and live-fire range qualification.

Key Learning Modules:

  • Gun Safety Rules: The fundamental rules for safe firearm handling, storage, and transport.

  • Pistol Mechanics & Nomenclature: Safe operation, disassembly, and maintenance of both revolvers and semi-automatic pistols.

  • Ammunition Selection & Knowledge: Understanding bullet types, calibers, malfunctions, and storage safety.

  • Live-Fire Range Qualification: Practice real-time marksmanship at the NRA National Range with personalized instruction.

  • The 5 Core Marksmanship Principles: - Stance and Grip - Aiming (Sight Alignment & Sight Picture) - Breath Control - Hold Control & Trigger Control - Follow-Through

Class Location & Facility Details

The NRA Range

Fairfax, Virginia

11250 Waples Mill Rd,

Fairfax, VA 22030

Serving students across Fairfax County, Loudoun County, Arlington, Alexandria, Prince William County, and Washington D.C.

Virginia Concealed Carry Permit (CHP) Eligibility

Completing this live-fire NRA Basic Pistol Shooting Course satisfies the Virginia legal requirement for proof of handgun competency under VA Code § 18.2-308.02.

5 Steps to Get Your Virginia Concealed Handgun Permit:

Step 1

Complete Training

Attend the 6-hour NRA Basic Pistol Course and complete the live-fire qualification.

Step 2

Obtain Certificate

Receive your official NRA Certificate of Completion signed by your instructor.

Step 3

Submit Application

File your certificate along with the Virginia CHP Application and government ID at your local Circuit Court (e.g., Fairfax County Circuit Court).

Step 4

Background Check

The Virginia State Police and local Sheriff will complete a standard background check.

Step 5

Receive Permit

Your permit will be issued and mailed within 45 days.

What’s Included & What to Bring

Included with Registration ($149):

  • Classroom materials and the official NRA Guide: Basics of Pistol Shooting handbook.
  • Firearms provided for range use (or you may bring your own).
  • Official NRA Course Completion Certificate.

What to Bring / Additional Expenses:

  • Valid Government-Issued Photo ID (Driver's License or Passport).
  • Eye and ear protection (available on-site).
  • 50–100 rounds of 9mm ammunition (can be purchased directly at the NRA Range).
  • NRA Range Fee: $15–$35 (paid directly to the range facility on class day).

Important Note: All personal firearms brought to class must remain completely cased and unloaded until instructed otherwise on the live range.

Looking for Customized Coaching?

Prefer individual attention or want to refine specific shooting skills at your own pace? Check out our 1-on-1 Private Firearm Instruction at the NRA Range.

If you have any questions, call 1-571-210-5651, or email at class@livefireinstruction.com

Get Your Virginia Concealed Carry Permit

Gain hands-on, NRA-certified training for all experience levels at the NRA Range in Fairfax, VA.

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