By OutdoorGearPro - September 2025

If you’re into gun rights, outdoor adventures, or just exercising your Second Amendment freedoms, you’ve probably caught wind of the latest shakeup in California. Santa Clara County recently introduced a mandatory psychological evaluation for anyone applying for a concealed-carry permit—and get this—it costs a whopping $2,000. Yeah, you read that right. This steep price tag has gun-rights advocates fired up and ready to take the county to court.

What’s Going On in Santa Clara?

Santa Clara’s new concealed-carry permit rules aren’t your typical background checks or fingerprinting. They’ve added a mandatory psych exam that applicants must pass before getting approval. On paper, it sounds like an extra safety layer, but in practice, it’s become a major roadblock for everyday folks who just want to legally carry for self-defense or recreational shooting.

At $2,000, this psychological evaluation isn’t just expensive—it’s a financial barrier that prices out many responsible gun owners. Considering that most concealed-carry permits across the country don’t require such a costly step, this move feels like an uphill climb for anyone trying to exercise their rights without breaking the bank.

Why Are Gun-Rights Advocates Suing?

Here’s the scoop: gun-rights groups argue that Santa Clara’s pricey psych exam essentially makes it impossible for average residents to get permits. They claim it’s not just about the money, but about fairness and equal access to constitutional rights. By slapping on this expensive requirement, the county is accused of putting up an unfair barrier that disproportionately affects middle-class and lower-income applicants.

These advocates are stepping into the courtroom to challenge the county’s rule, pushing for a more reasonable, transparent, and affordable permit process. The lawsuit could set a precedent for how other counties handle concealed-carry permits and psychological screenings moving forward.

What This Means for Gun Owners and Outdoor Enthusiasts

If you’re someone