A process that converts unprimed dense core granules (DCVs) to a pool of primed vesicles that are capable of fusing with the plasma membrane (fusion-competent) and thereby releasing their contents. Priming typically occurs after docking. [ GOC:PARL GOC:bf http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10899113 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26575293 ]
Synonyms: LDCV priming large dense-core vesicle priming dense core vesicle priming