online concealed weapons permit?

I just saw on this site that theres an online class that allows you to get your permit online. Is this valid in the state of Iowa and is there a background check to make sure that a felon is not taking it? I have been wanting to get a handgun to take on camping trips for a while now and thought this might be a good option for me. I always have a shotgun in the truck, but Im planning on camping in places this year where bears and what not also live. I know the chances of being attacked by a bear are low, but it would still be nice to have some protection “just in case”. My problem is deciding between a revolver or semiauto. I love the simplicity of the revolver but wonder about concealment. Which ever I get is going to be a full sized gun in probably 45. Initialy i was thinking 22 because its cheap to shoot but, i dont think it would be very affective against an aggressive bear! lol

I got the required education on-line, I still went to the sheriff’s office to get the permit. I don’t think you can get the actual permit on-line, just the education. The course I took was at Cedar Valley Firerms Training.

anyone can take a permit class, the instructors do not run background checks for that. It is up to the Sheriff to determine whether you can have one or not.