Yeah, a lot of the training from less reputable outfits will be exactly that, a CCW class that exactly promises that you get your permit and nothing more.
This does cover some legal stuff, and some basic stuff.
But the outline of exactly 100% of the classes (If they are certified NRA instructors) will be teaching the NRA course 'Personal Protection in the home' and they have an exact outline of exactly what to cover. This includes hours of legal instruction, and NRA course materials to take home.
This 'legal stuff' is not to be skipped, and is an intro into what you must know to be safe and carry. It varies from state to state, that's why it's separate from the NRA materials.
Most courses are required to be 8 hours in length, 5 in the classroom, and 3 on the range.
I'd consider this as a prerequisite to instruction, as it's pretty much a safety course. CCW courses are like herding cats, and all kinds of people are taking this course. Some have never fired a gun. Safety is a priority, but I'd try to stay clear of noobs, as you never know what stupid stuff they will do when confused. The instructor is basically busy trying to get everybody to get their stuff done, and not getting anybody killed from gross negligence of one of the students.
A level 2 and level 3 course is offered at most places that offer instruction.
Don't take a CCW course from a place that doesn't offer a level 2&3 handgun.
The classes are smaller, and more personal, and while they follow a basic class outline, it's a bit more open and you will learn real stuff, I promise. There is less likely to be someone that has never handled a gun in this class, as the previous class is always a prerequisite. Classes are more focused, you will need more ammo, more of the time is spent on the range, and you will learn from other peoples' mistakes, and quite possibly, your own. You will learn stuff you don't need to know, but since everyone is there for different reasons, this will happen as a consequence of covering a lot of ground.
You may learn stuff that you don't think is important now, but will remember it, and when you need to know it, it will be there.
Try to find a person that has taken a level 2 and level 3 pistol course, and doesn't recommend it for you.
Don't get training out of a phone book, get recommendations.