Firearm law reference
California firearm laws
A plain-English overview of the firearm rules most relevant to buying and selling in California — private-sale background checks, permits to purchase, restricted-firearm and magazine rules, handgun roster, waiting periods and ammunition. Federal law applies everywhere on top of these state rules.
At a glance
Reviewed 2026-06-26
What to watch for
- Important: California requires private firearm transfers to go through a licensed dealer (background check).
- Important: California: A Firearm Safety Certificate is required to buy any firearm.
- Caution: Interstate transfers must ship to a licensed dealer (FFL) in the buyer's state for the background check; a private buyer can't take a handgun across state lines.
- Caution: California restricts large-capacity magazines. Magazines over 10 rounds are typically restricted.
- Important: California restricts "assault weapons" — certain semi-automatic firearms and features may be prohibited.
- Important: California only permits sale of handguns on its approved roster.
- Note: California has a waiting period (about 10 days) before a firearm can be received.
- Note: Never transfer to a prohibited person or complete a straw purchase (buying for someone else) — both are federal crimes.
General information, not legal advice. Firearm laws change frequently and city or county ordinances may add requirements this summary doesn't capture. Verify the current law with the California Attorney General or state police and consult a licensed attorney before any transfer. Last reviewed 2026-06-26.
Frequently asked
Does California require a background check for private firearm sales?
Yes. California requires private firearm transfers to go through a licensed dealer (FFL), who runs the background check.
Do you need a permit or license to buy a firearm in California?
Yes. A Firearm Safety Certificate is required to buy any firearm.
Does California restrict "assault weapons"?
Yes. California restricts certain semi-automatic firearms and features classified as "assault weapons." Confirm a specific model and configuration is permitted before buying or selling.
Are magazine-capacity limits in effect in California?
Yes. Magazines over 10 rounds are typically restricted.
Is there a waiting period to receive a firearm in California?
Yes — about 10 days. The federal background check must also clear before transfer.
Are there rules for buying ammunition in California?
Yes. California requires most ammunition sales, including private ones, to go through a licensed ammunition vendor with a background check (the requirement is in litigation — verify its status).
Buying or selling in California?
Rangium shows these state-specific notes right on every listing, and Vanta can answer compliance questions against your own inventory. Rangium is a neutral listings venue — it never processes payment or ships firearms.