What I need to buy a gun in California?

What I Need to Buy a Gun in California?

California is one of the most stringent states when it comes to gun laws, and obtaining a firearm requires a significant amount of paperwork, waiting periods, and background checks. In this article, we’ll break down the requirements for buying a gun in California, so you can ensure a smooth and legal purchase process.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

Before applying for a gun purchase in California, you must meet the basic requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old (21 years old for handguns and 21 years old for semi-automatic rifles)
• Be a California resident
• Not be under indictment or convicted of a felony
• Not have a restraining order against you
• Not have a history of violent crime or mental health issues
• Not be subject to a domestic violence restraining order

Step 2: Choose the Right Gun

California has a wide range of firearms available for purchase, including:

• Handguns: Revolvers, semi-automatic pistols, and.45 caliber pistols
• Rifles: Semi-automatic rifles, bolt-action rifles, and shotguns
• Shotguns: Pump-action, semi-automatic, and break-action shotguns

Step 3: Obtain the Necessary Documents

To buy a gun in California, you’ll need to obtain the following documents:

• California Driver’s License or ID Card: You must provide a valid California driver’s license or ID card to prove your residency.
• Proof of Citizenship or Legal Residency: You must provide documentation showing your citizenship or legal residency in the United States.
• Background Check Consent Form: You’ll need to sign a background check consent form, which grants the California Department of Justice (DOJ) permission to conduct a background check.

Step 4: Pass a Background Check

California requires all firearms purchases to undergo a background check through the California DOJ. The background check will review your criminal history, mental health records, and other relevant information to ensure you’re eligible to purchase a firearm.

Step 5: Obtain a Firearms Safety Certificate (FSC)

To purchase a handgun in California, you’ll need to obtain a Firearms Safety Certificate (FSC). The FSC is a certification program that requires you to pass a written test on firearms safety and California gun laws. You can take the FSC test at a California-certified firearms training instructor.

Step 6: Purchase the Gun

Once you’ve completed the above steps, you can purchase the gun from a licensed firearms dealer. Be sure to:

• Review the Gun Laws: Understand California’s gun laws, including the types of firearms that are prohibited or restricted.
• Ask About Waiting Periods: Some firearms may require a waiting period before you can take possession of the gun.
• Insist on a Background Check: Make sure the dealer conducts a background check before selling you the gun.

Waiting Periods and Fees

California has a 10-day waiting period for the purchase of firearms, excluding weekends and holidays. The waiting period begins on the day you submit your application to the dealer.

• Waiting Period Fee: The waiting period fee is $25, which is paid to the California Department of Justice.
• Background Check Fee: The background check fee is typically $25-$30, which is paid to the dealer.

Conclusion

Buying a gun in California requires a significant amount of paperwork, waiting periods, and background checks. To ensure a smooth and legal purchase process, be sure to:

• Meet the basic requirements
• Choose the right gun
• Obtain the necessary documents
• Pass a background check
• Obtain a Firearms Safety Certificate (FSC)
Check out the 50 Cheapest Guns Now


• Purchase the gun from a licensed dealer

Remember to review California’s gun laws, ask about waiting periods, and insist on a background check to ensure a safe and legal firearms purchase.

California Gun Laws: Key Takeaways

California Firearms Dealers: Key Requirements