California Gun Laws
If you’re looking to obtain a legal firearm in California, here are some things about the permit process you should know:
California is a shall-issue state. Licenses are issued by the county sheriff’s office or local police station. Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) license holders can carry pistols, revolvers, and other firearms capable of being concealed. Applicants must be at least 18 years old (though it is 21 years old in some counties). Applicants must complete a firearms-training course that includes firing a gun in a live-fire shooting exercise.
What is required to buy a gun in California?
A gun buyer must:
- Be 21 years of age or older
- Have proof of residency, such as a current California driver’s license or identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, or military identification.
- Have a Firearms Safety Certificate (FSC) and perform safe gun handling to the gun dealer. An exception is a person 18 years of age or older, who possesses a current hunting license issued by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
There is a 10-day waiting period before the purchaser/transferee can take possession of the firearm.
What is required to buy a handgun in California?
A handgun buyer must be 21 years of age or older, have proof of residency, and possess a Handgun Safety Certificate.
Do handguns need to be registered in California?
Yes. Residents must report ownership of a firearm to the California Department of Justice.
Does California have a roster of handguns certified for sale?
Yes. Handguns available for sale in California must pass firing, safety and drop tests and be certified for sale in California by the Department of Justice. Curio and relic handguns are exempt from this requirement.
Is there a waiting period to buy a gun in California?
Yes. There is a 10-day waiting period to purchase firearms in California.
Is a firearms-training course required in California?
Yes. A minimum of eight (8) hours of training on firearm safety, handling and technique acceptable to the licensing authority is required. The course includes live-fire shooting exercises and applicants must demonstrate safe handling of, and shooting proficiency with, each firearm the applicant is applying to be licensed to carry. There are exemptions for active or honorably retired members of the U.S. military, law enforcement, and others.
What are the steps to obtain a Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) in California?
- Contact your county sheriff’s or local police chief’s office for approved training courses.
- Complete an approved training course or provide proof of exemption. NOTE: Some jurisdictions may require psychological testing.
- Download the California CCW application form the State of California Department of Justice website ca.gov/firearms.
- Take the following to your county sheriff’s office:
- CCW application
- Training certificate
- Proof of residency
- Valid and current identification
- Up to three firearms you will be conceal carrying
You will be fingerprinted, photographed, and interviewed.
- You will be notified by mail within 90 days if your application has been approved or denied.
How much does a California Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) license cost?
It costs between $200 to more than $1,000 for a California CCW permit depending on the county.
Does California recognize pistol permits from other states?
No. Concealed carry licenses and permits issued in other states are not valid in California.
Is California an Open Carry state?
No. Open carry of handguns and long guns is prohibited. Open carry is permitted in your home and business only.
Is California a Stand Your Ground state?
Yes, with caveats. The state has a version of the Castle Doctrine. A person is not required to retreat in California in certain circumstances. You have the right to stand your ground and defend yourself or others using deadly force when facing harm or danger.
Are AR-style and other semi-auto rifles legal in California?
No. California classifies semi-auto firearms in three categories:
- Category One: Firearms specified on the original Roberti-Roos assault weapons list. (Pen. Code, § 30510, subds. (a),(b), and (c).)
- Category Two: Firearms specified on the AK and AR-15 series weapons, pdf. (Pen. Code, § 30510, subds. (e) and (f).)
- Category Three: Firearms defined as assault weapons based on specific generic characteristics, often called “SB 23 assault weapons.” (Pen. Code, § 30515.)
These lists define an assault weapon under California state law and/or specifically list illegal weapons.
Are standard-capacity magazines allowed in California?
No. Maximum magazine capacity is 10 rounds. Magazines holding more than 10 rounds are prohibited.
What are California gun-storage laws?
Firearms are required to be stored securely if accessible by a minor under the age of 18.
Is California a Red Flag state?
Yes. California has red-flag laws.
Is non-lead ammunition required for hunting in California?
Yes, non-lead ammunition is required to hunting in California. You can go to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website wildlife.ca.gov to view a list of certified non-leaded ammunition for use in California.
