What do I need to buy ammo in California 2024?
California, known for its strict gun laws, requires residents to undergo a thorough background check and comply with various regulations to purchase ammunition. If you’re a gun owner or simply interested in purchasing ammo for recreational purposes, it’s essential to understand the necessary requirements. In this article, we’ll break down the steps and provide guidance on what you need to buy ammo in California as of 2024.
What are the Required Documents?
Before heading to a licensed firearms dealer (LFD) to purchase ammunition, make sure you have the following required documents:
• Valid government-issued ID: This can be a driver’s license, state ID, or a valid passport.
• Firearm ownership permit or background check certificate: You may need to show a copy of your firearms owner identification (FOID) card or a background check certificate issued by the Department of Justice.
Eligibility to Purchase Ammo
To be eligible to purchase ammunition in California, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
• Be 18 years old or older for non-military or non-law enforcement purchases. For military or law enforcement personnel, you must be 21 years old or older.
• Pass a background check: A licensed firearms dealer (LFD) will conduct a background check using the Department of Justice’s Automated System for Background Checks (ASC).
• Not have a prior conviction or pending charges related to violence, domestic violence, or a felony.
• Not be under a mental health restraining order.
• Not have been adjudicated as mentally incapacitated.
Authorized Places to Buy Ammo
You can only purchase ammunition from authorized places:
• Licensed firearms dealers (LFDs): LFDs are licensed by the federal government and must comply with state and federal laws. They are typically gun shops or pawn stores.
• Online retailers with an LFD as a secondary seller: Some online retailers partner with an LFD to facilitate online purchases.
• Shooting ranges: Some shooting ranges and clubs may offer ammunition sales to their members or permit holders.
Prohibited Sales
California prohibits the sale of certain types of ammunition, including:
• Handguns (unless you are a licensed collector or permit holder)
• Certain types of rifles, such as semi-automatic assault weapons or certain types of.50 caliber rifles.
• Ammunition with steel cores
• Tracer, incendiary, or armor-piercing bullets
• Certain types of shotgun shells
Purchase Limits and Quantity
In California, there is a monthly limit on ammunition purchases, which varies depending on the type and caliber of the ammunition:
• Centerfire and rimfire pistol ammunition: 1,000 rounds per month
• Rifle and shotgun ammunition: 2,500 rounds per month
Keep in mind that these limits may change, and it’s essential to check with the California Department of Justice or a licensed firearms dealer for the most up-to-date information.
Electronic Record-Keeping and Sales
As of 2019, California law requires electronic record-keeping and sales tracking for all ammunition sales:
• All sales of ammunition must be recorded: Dealers must keep detailed records of all ammunition sales, including the buyer’s information, the type and caliber of ammunition, and the date of sale.
• Electronic sales tracking system: Dealers must use a Department of Justice-approved electronic system to track and record all ammunition sales.
Conclusion
In conclusion, buying ammunition in California in 2024 requires specific documents, meets certain eligibility criteria, and involves authorized places to purchase, prohibited sales, and purchase limits and quantity. Remember to always check with a licensed firearms dealer or the California Department of Justice for any updates or changes to these regulations. It’s also essential to maintain accurate and detailed records of your ammunition purchases and to only buy from authorized dealers.
Here’s a summary of the key points to remember:
Required Documents:
• Valid government-issued ID
• Firearm ownership permit or background check certificate
Eligibility Criteria:
• Be 18 years old or older
• Pass a background check
• Not have a prior conviction or pending charges
• Not be under a mental health restraining order
• Not have been adjudicated as mentally incapacitated
Authorized Places to Buy Ammo:
• Licensed firearms dealers (LFDs)
• Online retailers with an LFD as a secondary seller
• Shooting ranges
Prohibited Sales:
• Handguns
• Certain types of rifles
• Ammunition with steel cores
• Tracer, incendiary, or armor-piercing bullets
• Certain types of shotgun shells
Purchase Limits and Quantity:
• Centerfire and rimfire pistol ammunition: 1,000 rounds per month
• Rifle and shotgun ammunition: 2,500 rounds per month
Electronic Record-Keeping and Sales:
• All sales of ammunition must be recorded
• Electronic sales tracking system required
Remember to always check with a licensed firearms dealer or the California Department of Justice for any updates or changes to these regulations.
