LionsPride Training Group

USCCA Defensive Pistol Program – Certified Instructor Course

Duration: 3 Days
Format: eLearning + In-Person Classroom & Range Instruction
Prerequisite: Completion of the USCCA DPP eLearning Module with a Minimum Score of 80%
Note: This course is non-refundable once eLearning begins. Rescheduling is available through Instructor Support at 877-577-4800.

The USCCA Defensive Pistol Program (DPP) Instructor Certification Course is an intensive, performance-driven instructor development program that equips certified firearms educators to teach defensive pistol skills with clarity, confidence, and consistency.

Grounded in the latest research in motor learning and skill acquisition, this course focuses on developing the practical knowledge and instructional ability required to teach handgun fundamentals within a self-defense context. Emphasis is placed on both live-fire and dry-fire training methods to help students internalize and demonstrate defensive shooting competence.

This is more than just a certification—it’s a deep dive into the philosophy, structure, and standards that define the USCCA’s Defensive Pistol Program.

🔷 Program Purpose

The certification enables instructors to teach students intermediate to advanced pistol skills, focusing on defensive use of handguns, situational awareness, and conflict avoidance.

What You’ll Learn

• • How to deliver objective- and performance-based defensive pistol training
  • Application of adult learning and motor skills science in the firearms classroom
  • Effective use of DPP drills and assessments
  • Safe and professional management of live-fire environments
  • Evaluation and feedback techniques for student development
  • Defensive mindset fundamentals and real-world carry considerations

Course Breakdown

Day 1: End-User Experience
Instructor candidates participate in the full Level 1 Defensive Pistol Program as a student. This includes classroom instruction and live-fire range work to gain insight into the user’s experience and the flow of the curriculum.

Day 2: Instructor Development
Candidates are guided through every drill in the curriculum with in-depth discussion on goals, setup, briefing techniques, safety protocols, and effective coaching strategies.

Day 3: Teach-Back & Evaluation
Instructor candidates conduct “teach-backs” of key lesson elements while classmates act as students. A Training Counselor will assess each candidate’s performance using both subjective and objective criteria to ensure readiness to instruct.

Equipment Requirements

To maximize your training time and minimize disruptions, please come fully prepared with the following gear:

• • Firearm: A full-size, magazine-fed semi-automatic pistol with a barrel length of at least 3.5 inches is HIGHLY RECCOMMENDED. Subcompacts (e.g., M&P Shield, CZ RAMI) may be used but will require elite level proficiency.
  • Ammunition: Bring high-quality, factory-loaded ammunition (no reloads or remanufactured rounds). Minimum of 400–500 rounds recommended.
  • Magazines: At least three magazines; more if using lower-capacity magazines.
  • Holster & Gear: A secure, concealed holster (IWB or OWB) with proper concealment. No SERPA-style or retention-button holsters permitted. Bring a sturdy gun belt and appropriate mag pouches.
  • Protective Equipment: Eye and ear protection are mandatory. Electronic hearing protection is strongly encouraged. Also bring a ball cap and sunscreen.
  • Clothing: Dress for range conditions and check local weather before travel.
  • Range Essentials: Cleaning kit, gun lube, spare parts, personal first aid items (e.g., band-aids, lip balm, medications).
  • Mindset: Arrive with a readiness to learn, engage, and perform at a high level.

Important Notes

• • No Refunds: Once you begin the E-Learning, the course becomes non-refundable. Please plan accordingly and contact Instructor Support to reschedule if needed. (USCCA policy)
  • Professionalism Required: This course is for serious instructors committed to delivering safe, effective, and high-quality training to their future students. Come prepared, be safe, and train hard. Show up dressed as an instructor.

👨‍🏫 About the Instructor:

Dave Jenkins (aka DFJ) is a nationally recognized firearms trainer with more than 25 years of experience in defensive training. He holds the distinction of being a certified Handgun Combatives, LLC Instructor, a graduate of numerous instructor level courses from Blackwater, Academi, Sig Academy, Rangemaster, (and more), and a highly experienced Training Counselor for both the NRA and USCCA.

Dave was the first DPP Certified Instructor to be awarded the USCCA Defensive Pistol Program (DPP) Training Counselor rating outside of the standard application process—a recognition earned through his extensive background and unwavering commitment to instructional excellence and instructor development.

Recognizing a gap in instructor readiness, Dave created a DPP Prep Course specifically to complement the DPP Certified Instructor program. His goal: To help instructors and instructor candidates elevate their skills and dramatically increase their chances of success.

Become a Certified Leader in Defensive Pistol Instruction

Upon successful completion of this course, you'll be certified to teach the USCCA Defensive Pistol Program and will gain access to exclusive instructor resources, ongoing support, and a national network of certified professionals.

Ready to elevate your instruction? Enroll now and take the next step in your journey as a defensive firearms educator.

tor.