NRA Firearm Instructor Classes

Thank you for your interest in the NRA Instructor Training Program. The goal of this program is to develop instructors to teach NRA Basic Firearm Training Courses according to the lesson plans and training standards of the National Rifle Association. This program is not designed to prepare you to teach other firearm training courses (such as law enforcement, security, or hunter safety courses), nor to prepare you to develop firearm training courses of your own.

The NRA Instructor Training Course is designed to teach you how to teach others to shoot using NRA lesson plans and training methods. The course is not designed to improve your shooting skills. Possession of basic firearm safety and/or shooting skills is a prerequisite for certification as an NRA instructor. You may be asked to demonstrate your firearm background through participation in pre-course assessment exercises. We highly suggest enrolling in the student level course before instructor training even when it is not a prerequisite.

A complete NRA Instructor Training Course consists of two parts. The first is basic instructor training, which consists of 6 hours of instruction. The second part is discipline-specific instructor training, which consists of an additional 5 to 14 hours of instruction per discipline. For example, an NRA Instructor Training Course in rifle, pistol, and shotgun lasts at least 40 hours.

During the NRA Instructor Training Course, you will receive from your Training Counselor the NRA Trainer’s Guide, the appropriate NRA Instructor Candidate Packet which includes the course outlines and lesson plans for the disciplines you wish to teach, the appropriate NRA basic course student packet which includes the handbook, certificates, NRA Gun Safety Rules brochure and other materials used in NRA basic courses.

The NRA Training Counselor who conducts your course will make a recommendation to NRA concerning your certification based on an evaluation of your knowledge, skills, and attitude. You will be asked to demonstrate your organizational and teaching skills through participation in several practical exercises during the course of your training. You will also be asked to complete an instructor certification examination. A minimum score of 90 percent is required for certified instructor applicants (85 percent for assistant and apprentice instructor applicants). However, attendance at the course, or a passing grade on the examination, does not guarantee that you will receive the recommendation of the NRA Training Counselor.

Instructor certification is valid for one year upon initial certification. After completion of the first year, instructors may renew their instructor credentials for up to three years at a time. NRA encourages instructors to remain active and would like to see at least one basic course taught per year.

Please remember NRA Instructor Courses are performance based courses, Instructor Candidates must possess the knowledge, skills and attitude necessary for this level of training. You do not pay and automatically pass Instructor training. You pay to have the opportunity to pass.

NRA Basic Instructor Training (BIT)

NRA Basic Instructor Training is designed to develop NRA Certified Instructors who possess the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary to conduct the NRA Basic Firearm Training Courses. It is the NRA class that helps people who already have subject matter expertise learn how to hold a class the NRA way so that their students earn recognized NRA certification.

This course teaches you the policies and procedures for becoming an NRA instructor as well as effective teaching methods for training students. Basic Instructor Training is a pre-requisite for all instructor level courses.

NRA Basic Instructor Training opens with an exercise on "How to Introduce a Speaker" designed as an icebreaker. You're paired with another Instructor Candidate, spend a few minutes in exchanging information, and introduce each other to the class. Immediately you start learning how to talk on your feet while we teach you how to offer useful praise and constructive suggestions. We help you conquer shyness and develop a communications bridge with a group of people who depend on you for positive instruction. Our classes establish an atmosphere in which your fellow students assist us in helping you succeed.

All courses include the required NRA documentation, instructor guides, student packets, instruction and follow up support. You will receive everything needed to first take and then teach each course. Note: There will be processing fees payable to the NRA due upon the completion of class. Fee's are determined by how many and which courses you attend.

This course is a minimum of 6 hours and covers the following topics:

• How to introduce a speaker
• The instructor and the NRA Basic Firearm Training Program
• Using a training team
• Training materials and training aids
• Organizing your course
• Preparing to teach

This course is the mandatory pre-requisite for initial NRA Certified Instructor training.

To be certified as an NRA Instructor, students must complete this 6-hour course that teaches material common to all NRA courses. This course does not certify the instructor candidate to teach any NRA courses. Additional discipline-specific instructor training is required to certify instructor candidates to teach specific courses.

After you successfully complete NRA Basic Instructor Training and score at least 90% on the Trainers Examination you should be ready for whichever discipline-specific instructor training class comes next for you: Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun, or Personal Protection depending on your qualifications and enrollment. You demonstrate your qualifications through the Pre-Course Qualification tests associated with the specific discipline.

The first day of most NRA instructor training courses consists of this 6 hour Basic Instructor Training (BIT).

Special Note for Current Instructors adding a rating: When adding ratings, instructors may be required to attend another Basic Instructor Training (BIT) Course if they have not completed that course within the previous 2 years.

NRA Basic Pistol Instructor Course

This course is at least 10 hours long and includes classroom and range time learning how to teach shooting revolvers and semi-automatic pistols. Instructor Candidates learn how to teach NRA’s rules for safe gun handling; pistol parts and operation; ammunition; shooting fundamentals; range rules; shooting from the bench rest position, and two handed standing positions; cleaning the pistol; and continued opportunities for skill development. Students will receive the NRA Guide to the Basics of Pistol Shooting handbook, Instructor Manual, NRA Gun Safety Rules brochure, Winchester/NRA Marksmanship Qualification booklet, take a Basics of Pistol Instructor Shooting Examination, and course completion certificate.

In order to take this course you must pass the prequalification test which includes firearms safety, shooting evaluation etc or take the NRA Basic Pistol Course. You also must have had Basic Instructor Training within the last 2 years if the BIT is not included in this course.

Download the Pre-Course Qualification here! Pistol_Prequal.pdf
Download the Pre-Course Questionnaire Here! PreCourse-Questionnaire.pdf
Please download and read our Liability_Waiver.pdf

NRA Personal Protection In The Home Instructor Course

Instructor Candidates should expect to shoot approximately 100 rounds of ammunition. Instructor Candidates will learn how to teach the basic defensive shooting skills, strategies for home safety and responding to a violent confrontation, firearms and the law, how to choose a handgun for self-defense, and continued opportunities for skill development. Instructor Candidates will receive the NRA Personal Protection in the Home Instructor Manual, NRA Guide to the Basics of Personal Protection In The Home handbook, NRA Gun Safety Rules brochure, the Winchester/NRA Marksmanship Qualification booklet, and course completion certificate.

NRA Basic Personal Protection In The Home Instructor course is for law-abiding adult citizens, as defined by applicable federal, state, or local law, and experienced shooters (shooters able to show mastery of the basic skills of safe gun handling, shooting a group, zeroing the firearm, and cleaning the firearm) to maximize what can be learned from this course.

**This is a 2-Day Course** You must have completed and be Certified to teach NRA Basic Pistol course along with having successfully completed the Personal Protection in The Home Student Course and pass the prequalification test in order to take this Certification Course. You also must have had Basic Instructor Training within the last 2 years if the BIT is not included in this course. 

Download the Pre-Course Qualification here! PPIH-Prequal.pdf
Download the Pre-Course Questionnaire Here! PreCourse-Questionnaire.pdf
Please download and read our Liability_Waiver.pdf

NRA Personal Protection Outside The Home Instructor Course

The course teaches Instructor Candidates how to teach the knowledge, skills and attitude essential for avoiding dangerous confrontations and for the safe, effective and responsible use of a concealed pistol for self-defense outside the home. Instructor Candidates have the opportunity to attend this course using a quality strong side hip holster that covers the trigger, or a holster purse. From a review of safe firearms handling and proper mindset to presentation from concealment and multiple shooting positions, this course contains the essential skills and techniques needed to taech students to prevail in a life-threatening situation.

The NRA Personal Protection Outside the Home Instructor Course is divided into two levels (basic and advanced). Level one offers the essential knowledge and skills that must be mastered in order to carry, store, and use a firearm safely and effectively for personal protection outside the home. Upon completion of level one, Instructor Candidates will attend level two, which is additional range training and teaches how to teach advanced shooting skills. After the classroom portion, Instructor Candidates should expect to spend several hours on the range during level one. Level two involves additional hours on the range and approximately 200 rounds of ammunition. The ammunition requirements are minimum and may be exceeded. Instructor Candidates will receive the NRA Personal Protection outside the Home Instructor Manual & CD, NRA Guide to the Basics of Personal Protection Outside The Home handbook, NRA Gun Safety Rules brochure and the appropriate course completion card.

The NRA Basics of Personal Protection Outside The Home Instructor Course is for adult individuals who are not disqualified from possessing a firearm as defined by applicable federal, state, or local law and are of good repute and possess defensive pistol skills.

Equipment:

• Ear and Eye protection (electronic muffs preferred)
• Suitable Holster that protects the trigger. No pocket guns or holsters.
• Concealment garment, light jacket or vest.
• Shoes – comfortable with sufficient support to permit a full range of motion. No sandals or flip-flops.
• Semi-Automatic Pistol or Revolver with at least 200 rounds of factory ammunition. NO RELOADS
• At least two functional magazines (semi-autos) or speed-loaders (revolvers)
• Comfortable clothing, knee-pads (optional) and foot wear suitable for training outdoors.

**This is a 2-Day Course** You must have completed and be Certified to teach NRA Basic Pistol and Personal Protection in the Home course along with having successfully completed the Personal Protection Outside The Home Student Course and pass the prequalification test in order to take this Certification Course. You also must have had Basic Instructor Training within the last 2 years if the BIT is not included in this course. Note: any Instructor Candidate that points a firearm in an unsafe direction or swipes another student either intentionally or unintentionally will automatically fail and be asked to leave (with no refund given).

Download the Pre-Course Questionnaire Here! PreCourse-Questionnaire.pdf
Please download and read our Liability_Waiver.pdf

NRA Basic Rifle Instructor Course

This course includes classroom and range time learning to how to teach the sport of shooting rifles. Instructor Candidates learn how to teach the NRA’s rules for safe gun handling; rifle parts and operation; ammunition; shooting fundamentals; range rules; shooting from the bench rest, prone, sitting, standing and kneeling positions; cleaning, and continued opportunities for skill development. Instructor Candidates will receive the NRA Basic Rifle Instructor Manual & CD, Basics of Rifle Shooting handbook, NRA Gun Safety Rules brochure, Winchester/NRA Marksmanship Qualification booklet, take a Basics of Rifle Shooting Instructor Examination, and course completion card.

In order to take this course you must pass the prequalification test which includes firearms safety, shooting evaluation etc. You also must have had Basic Instructor Training within the last 2 years if the BIT is not included in this course. Note: any Instructor Candidate that points a firearm in an unsafe direction or swipes another student either intentionally or unintentionally will automatically fail and be asked to leave (with no refund given).

Download the Pre-Course Qualification here! RiflePreQual.pdf
Download the Pre-Course Questionnaire Here! PreCourse-Questionnaire.pdf
Please download and read our Liability_Waiver.pdf

NRA Home Firearm Safety Instructor

Non-shooting course and teaches Instructor Candidates how to teach the basic knowledge, skills, and to explain the attitude necessary for the safe handling and storage of firearms and ammunition in the home.

This for safe gun handling is conducted in the classroom only. Instructor Candidates are taught how to teach the NRA’s three rules for safe gun handling; primary causes of firearms accidents; firearm parts; how to unload certain action types; ammunition components; cleaning; care; safe storage of firearms in the home; and the benefits of becoming an active participant in the shooting sports. Instructor Candidates will receive the NRA Home Firearm Safety Instructor Manual & CD, NRA Home Firearm Safety handbook, NRA Gun Safety Rules brochure, Basic Firearm Training Program brochure, course completion certificate.

In order to take this course you must pass the prequalification test which includes firearms safety, shooting evaluation etc. You also must have had Basic Instructor Training within the last 2 years if the BIT is not included in this course.

Download the Pre-Course Qualification here! HomeFirearmSafetyPrequal.pdf
Download the Pre-Course Questionnaire Here! PreCourse-Questionnaire.pdf
Please download and read our Liability_Waiver.pdf

NRA Chief Range Safety Officer Course

This course is conducted in a classroom and may include a Range facility. NRA Chief Range Safety Officer candidates will learn how to teach the roles and responsibilities of an RSO; Range Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs); range inspection; range rules; range briefings; emergency procedures; and firearm stoppages and malfunctions. Each Chief Range Safety Officer Candidate will receive a Chief RSO Instructor Manual, an RSO Student Manual, Basic Firearm Training Program brochure, an NRA Gun Safety Rules brochure, an Instructor Application/Course Evaluation form.

Chief Range Safety Office is an Instructor rating, so you must be a current certified NRA Range Safety Officer and must have had Basic Instructor Training within the last 2 years if the BIT is not included in this course. 

Download the Pre-Course Questionnaire Here! PreCourse-Questionnaire.pdf
Please download and read our Liability_Waiver.pdf
 

NRA Refuse to be a Victim Development Workshop

Joining the Refuse To Be A Victim® Instructing team is easy! Teach your community how to better protect themselves, their family, and their friends.

Women and men interested in becoming Refuse To Be A Victim® instructors must attend a one- to two-day Instructor Development Workshop (IDW) or complete the Online Instructor Training course.

Instructor Development Workshops are taught by Regional Counselors and begin with a Refuse To Be A Victim® Seminar. The workshop then concentrates on technical aspects of the program, instructor expectations, certification guidelines, developing speaking techniques and presentation skills, marketing seminars, etc.

After completing an Instructor Development Workshop and receiving the Regional Counselor's endorsement, the required paperwork and fees are submitted to NRA and instructor credentials are issued.

Once certified, instructors are encouraged to schedule seminars in their communities for organizations, community groups, and companies, both proactively and in response to direct requests.

Refuse To Be A Victim® uses www.nrainstructors.org for all Instructor Development Workshop schedules and information.

NRA Basic Metallic Cartridge Reloading Instructor Course

The goal of the NRA's Basic Metallic Cartridge Reloading Instructor Course is to develop NRA Certified Instructors who possess the knowledge, skill, and attitude necessary to conduct the NRA Basic Metallic Cartridge Reloading Course.

Lessons include:

• Introduction to NRA Basic Metallic Cartridge Reloading Course Outline and Lesson Plans
• Teaching Lesson I: Introduction to Reloading and Reloading Safety
• Teaching Lesson II: Centerfire Cartridge Components
• Teaching Lesson III: Using the Reloading Manual and Reloading Data
• Teaching Lesson IV: Metallic Cartridge Reloading Equipment
• Teaching Lesson V: Making the First Metallic Cartridges
• Teaching Lesson VI: Course Review and Examination

NRA Basic Shotgun Shell Reloading Instructor Course

The goal of the NRA's Basic Shotgun Shell Reloading Instructor Course is to develop NRA Certified Instructors who possess the knowledge, skill, and attitude necessary to conduct the NRA Basic Shotgun Shell Reloading Course.

Lessons include:

• Introduction to NRA Basic Shotgun Shell Reloading Course Outline and Lesson Plans
• Teaching Lesson I: Introduction to Reloading and Reloading Safety
• Teaching Lesson II: Shotgun Shell Components
• Teaching Lesson III: Using the Reloading Manual and Reloading Data
• Teaching Lesson IV: Shotgun Shell Reloading Equipment
• Teaching Lesson V: Making the First Shotgun Shells
• Teaching Lesson VII: Course Review and Examination

Please remember NRA Instructor Courses are performance based courses, Instructor Candidates must possess the knowledge, skills and attitude necessary for this level of training. You do not pay and automatically pass Instructor training. You pay to have the opportunity to pass.