Firearms ordered online must be shipped to a federally licensed gun dealer, or FFL (Federal Firearm License), who then complete the background check and paperwork for the buyer.
California requires firearm background checks for retailer and private sales. Firearm sales without background checks are less common in California than in states without regulations on private sales.
Concealed carry is only legal with a California Concealed Carry Weapons License (CCW). The minimum age is 18 years old, although a licensing authority has the discretion to require applicants to be older than 18 years of age.
The transfer of a firearm up or down the family tree can be done online, via the CFARS website. The recipient of the firearm must be of legal age, and in possession of a valid CA ID/DL, and Firearm Safety Certificate or exemption. This process may take a number of weeks for the CA DOJ to complete.
The California Firearms Application Reporting System (CFARS) is a web-based application that will allow an individual to report their firearms to the Department of Justice (DOJ) using California Reporting Information System (CRIS) reporting forms, as outlined in California firearms laws and regulations.
Generally, all firearms purchases and transfers, including private party transactions and sales at gun shows, must be made through a California licensed dealer under the Dealer's Record of Sale (DROS) process. California law imposes a 10-day waiting period before a firearm can be released to a purchaser or transferee.
Effective March 1, 2025: Mandates that the register or record of sale include an acknowledgment by the purchaser or transferee that they have, within the last 30 days, confirmed possession of every firearm that they own or possess.
Current Processing Times for Employee Applications License TypeApplication TypeTarget Timeframe Firearms Permit (FQ) Initial 75 days Renewal 60 days Baton Permit (BAT) Initial 75 days Renewal 60 days33 more rows
60 caliber which fires fixed ammunition, or any fixed ammunition for such firearm. Excluded are shotguns and shotgun ammunition. No license or permit shall be required to possess keep, or carry a handgun openly or concealed in one's home or place of business.