You must be confusing a CCW (Concealed Carry of a Weapon) permit with an FFL (Federal Firearms License).
A CCW is obtainable by almost anyone who is over 21 and not a convicted felon, and allows you carry a concealed weapon, such as a handgun or a knife with a blade longer than 3 inches.
An FFL is obtainable by business-owners who pass extensive background checks with the ATF and allows them to legally sell firearms to other people.
A CCW can be obtained over a weekend or two. An FFL takes months of paperwork, interviews, background checks, and filing fees.
If you don't believe me, please go try and obtain an FFL. I'd be very interested to learn how far you get.