Information on Gun Permits and License in California
The California Bureau of Firearms regulates firearms and enforces the laws relating to firearms.These laws, found in Penal Code Sections 12000 and following, define the firearms that individuals may own and set the requirements for buying and possessing firearms. In general, individuals do not need a permit to own a firearm, but other requirements must be met, and the weapon must be purchased from a licensed firearms dealer.
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Definitions
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California Penal Code defines a "firearm" as any device designed for use as a weapon that expels a projectile through a barrel by any form of combustion. The definition includes long guns like shotguns and rifles, rocket devices like flare guns used as distress signals and handguns. A handgun is any firearm with a barrel of less than 16 inches that may be concealed on a person. Antique guns (those manufactured before 1898) are excluded from the category.
Basic Requirements
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You must be at least 18 years old to purchase a rifle or shotgun and at least 21 years old to purchase a handgun. You must have valid identification issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles or a military identification. Noncitizens must provide evidence of legal residence in the United States. The Dealer Record of Sale process requires a minimum ten-day waiting period during which a background check is conducted to determine your eligibility for buying a firearm.
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Handgun Requirements
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To purchase a handgun, you must provide additional identification proving that you are a California resident. Examples may include a utility bill, rental agreement or property deed. You must also take a class from an instructor certified by the Department of Justice and pass the test to earn a Handgun Safety Certificate. The class must cover topics specified by law, including laws relating to firearms, safety practices and responsibilities of firearm ownership.
Concealed Carry License
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Penal Code Section 12050 provides for issuance of licenses to individuals who want to carry a concealed weapon, called a "carry concealed weapon" license (CCW). You must apply for a CCW at the sheriff's office of the county in which you live or, if you live in a city, at the police department. The law enforcement agency will give you the standardized state application and the local policy statement regarding CCW licenses.
Permits for Prohibited Weapons
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California law prohibits individuals from owning specified types of weapons and related devices, including short-barreled rifles, weapons that are disguised in any way, gun silencers, machine guns and assault rifles. In some circumstances, however, the Department of Justice issues permits to businesses or individuals who have a legitimate reason for possessing machine guns or assault rifles. For example, a permit might be issued to a business that sells such weapons to law enforcement or the military.
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