What Age Can You Get a Handgun in California?
California is known for its strict gun laws, and the process of acquiring a handgun in the state is no exception. California law requires individuals to obtain a permit before purchasing, owning, or carrying a handgun. In this article, we will explore what age you can get a handgun in California and outline the steps you need to take to obtain one legally.
Direct Answer
In California, you must be at least 18 years old to buy, own, or receive a handgun. However, there are some exceptions, which we will discuss further below.
California handgun laws
California has several laws regulating the sale and ownership of handguns. Before we dive into the requirements for obtaining a handgun in California, it’s important to understand the laws behind them.
- Universal Background Checks: California is one of the states with universal background checks, meaning that all gun sales are subject to a background check.
- Handgun Safety Certificate: California law requires individuals to obtain a Handgun Safety Certificate before purchasing or owning a handgun.
- Waiting period: California has a 10-day waiting period for handgun purchases, during which the buyer’s background check must be completed.
Acquiring a Handgun Safety Certificate
To obtain a Handgun Safety Certificate in California, you must be at least 18 years old and:
• Be a California resident
• Provide finger prints
• Undergo a background check through the California Department of Justice (DOJ)
• Pass a safe handling and use test of a firearm
Gun Safety Course
As part of the Handgun Safety Certificate process, you are required to complete a safety course that covers the responsible use and storage of a handgun. The course should include topics such as:
• Handgun types and characteristics
• Firearm safety and maintenance
• Proper storage of firearms
• First aid and emergency response
• California laws regulating firearms
Obtaining a Handgun through a Dealer
Once you have obtained your Handgun Safety Certificate, you can purchase a handgun from a licensed firearms dealer. Keep in mind that the sale of handguns is subject to a 10-day waiting period, during which your background check must be completed.
Exceptions to Age Requirements
While the majority of individuals must be at least 18 years old to purchase or own a handgun in California, there are some exceptions. For example:
• Active duty military personnel, who can purchase or own a handgun at the age of 18 or older
• Authorized law enforcement personnel, who can purchase or own a handgun at the age of 18 or older
• Favorable court decision: California courts have ruled that in some cases, individuals over the age of 62 may be allowed to purchase or own a handgun without a Handgun Safety Certificate.
Table Summary
| Age | Condition | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| 18+ | General Public | Handgun Safety Certificate, background check, and 10-day waiting period |
| 18+ | Active duty military personnel | No special requirements |
| 18+ | Authorized law enforcement personnel | No special requirements |
| 62+ | Favorable court decision | No Handgun Safety Certificate required |
Concluding Thoughts
Acquiring a handgun in California can be a complex process, but it’s essential for individuals to understand the law and requirements to ensure that they are complying with them. By following the requirements outlined in this article and obtaining a Handgun Safety Certificate, you can legal purchase and own a handgun in California.
