NRA Pistol Instructor Course 2026

Instructor: Chris Arlotta, NRA Training Counselor – Over 30 years of firearms training
experience

Course Overview
This 16-hour, two-day course provides the knowledge, skills, and attitude essential to
organizing, promoting, and teaching NRA’s Basic Pistol Shooting Course. The training is
presented in two parts:
1. Basic Instructor Training (BIT) – covering NRA policies, teaching techniques, and
organizational skills (if not already completed).
2. Pistol Instructor Training – focused on the pistol discipline, including teaching
demonstrations, practical exercises, and structured student evaluations.
You will also receive:
- NRA Trainer’s Guide
- NRA Pistol Shooting Instructor Candidate Packet
- NRA Basic Pistol Shooting Course Student Packet
Prerequisites
• Possession of basic firearm safety and pistol shooting skills
• Completion of a pre-course questionnaire
• Successful demonstration of rifle handling and shooting background in pre-course
assessment exercises
Certification & Recognition
• Upon successful completion, participants earn the NRA Pistol Instructor Certification.
• This certification qualifies you to conduct the NRA Basic Pistol Shooting Course.
Cost
• $425 per person
• Discounts available for Apex Members
Range fees, ammunition, and rentals are not included.
Benefits of Taking This Course
• Teach with confidence: Develop professional teaching skills through practical exercises
and real-time feedback.
• Grow your opportunities: Certification allows you to teach a wider variety of classes, from
new pistol shooters to advanced skill development.
• Community impact: Help promote safe and responsible rifle ownership and shooting sports
in your local area.