Multicard Implements Statewide Standard Credential for Colorado’s Concealed Carry Handgun Permit

Multicard, a leading supplier of credential solutions, identity management and system integration services and a business unit of Identive Group, Inc., announced that it has developed and implemented a standardized “concealed carry” handgun permit for Colorado’s county sheriffs’ association. For this latest secure identification project for public safety organizations, Multicard has designed and produced a secure, pre-printed identification card to be used statewide.

Multicard was awarded the contract by the County Sheriffs of Colorado Association, an organization that advocates for the Office of the Sheriff across the state. “Carrying a concealed weapon” (CCW) permits are issued through the local sheriff’s office in each of Colorado’s 64 counties. While the application process is the same statewide, prior to this project, there was no unified standard for the permit’s design or production.

“Without a state standard, it was difficult for law enforcement to verify a valid permit if issued from other counties,” Steve Benitez, vice president of sales for Multicard, explained. “This also left room for forgery and fraud. Our goal was to develop and implement a secure statewide standard for the permit so that all sheriffs’ offices will be issuing the same document. The permit design needed to address previously established requirements including the permit holder’s photograph and other identifying information, as well as the signature of the sheriff issuing the permit.”

The county sheriffs’ organization contracted with Multicard to develop the permit design, securely produce the pre-printed card templates, and consult on implementation. A design template incorporating all required information and additional security features was created and pre-printed on standard CR80 size PVC card stock, which is similar to a credit card in size and thickness. The pre-printed card stock was then distributed to the counties for issuance. Additionally Multicard is supplying the fully compatible ID systems needed to print the final permit, which include a configured production software module and printer.

“The CCW permit project was an important initiative and Multicard has fulfilled our expectations for a standard, easily recognizable credential statewide. We are very pleased with the results and with the speed and professionalism of Multicard’s service in designing and implementing this solution for the State of Colorado. Tamper-proof security features make it virtually impossible to recreate the permit and law enforcement can be assured that a CCW permit is state-approved and legal,” said Gary Cure, assistant director, County Sheriffs of Colorado.