dc899:
REAPER2502 is correct on the mechanics of purchasing in NC. NC has a "shall issue" permit to purchase system. The permit must be issued by the Sheriff of the county where the purchaser resides, but the permit is valid to purchase anywhere in the state. I'm not sure how long Buncombe Co. takes to issue the purchase permit....probably anywhere from 3 days to the 10 that REAPER mentioned. Our county does them (absent some problem with the applicant's criminal history) in 2-3 days.
The carry permit requires that the applicant first complete the state mandated training course (usually about 8 hrs), then bring the original certificate of completion to the Sheriff's Office in the county of residence. The total cost, IIRC, is $98.00, which is set by the state. That covers fingerprints, a local criminal record check by the Clerk of Superior Court, a check of Mental Health records, and notary fees. I have seen waits as long as 6 months to get the fingerprint clearance back from the FBI (since they are not enthusiastic about concealed weapons anyway, CCW prints are a very low priority). The average wait right now seems to be 30-40 days. Once the clearance comes back, the Sheriff is required to issue the permit. The applicant does not have to list any weapons, there is no photograph on the permit. The permittee has to have the permit on his/her person at all times when carrying, and is required to inform any law enforcement officer who contacts him/her (traffic stops, etc) that he/she has a concealed handgun. The permittee does not have to show the officer the weapon, does not even have to tell the officer where the weapon is, just that he/she has a concealed weapon. A DMV check of the permittees drivers license will show that he/she has a permit, so the officer will find about the weapon anyway.
Hope this helps. If you need suggestions on where to take the CCW course, or gun dealers in the area, I will be glad to offer any help I can. I work about 30 miles from Asheville, & I know most of the dealers & CCW instructors.