California Gun Laws 2026 — Complete Guide
California firearms laws govern how residents and visitors may purchase, possess, carry, and use firearms within the state. This guide covers the most important aspects of California gun laws as of 2026, including purchase requirements, carry permits, waiting periods, and self-defense statutes. Always consult official state statutes and legal counsel for binding legal guidance.
Purchasing Firearms in California
Permit to purchase: Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) required to purchase. California requires a permit, license, or ID card before you can purchase certain firearms. This additional step involves a background check and may add processing time to your purchase. Buyers must be at least 21 years old for handguns and 21 years old for long guns (rifles and shotguns). All purchases through licensed FFL dealers require a federal NICS background check.
Background checks: State background check through DOJ plus NICS. When you purchase a firearm on WeaponDepot, it ships to your chosen FFL dealer in California who handles all required paperwork and background check processing.
Waiting period: 10-day waiting period for all firearms.
Carrying Firearms in California
Open carry: Prohibited in most areas.
Concealed carry: CCW permit required through county sheriff. California operates under a permit-based carry system. Residents must apply for and obtain a concealed carry permit before legally carrying a concealed firearm in California. Check local requirements for application procedures, fees, and training requirements.
Restrictions & Prohibited Items
Assault weapons ban, 10-round magazine limit, handgun roster, universal background checks. Federal restrictions on NFA items (short-barreled rifles, suppressors, machine guns) still apply and require ATF approval through the appropriate tax stamp process.
Self-Defense Laws
California follows the duty-to-retreat doctrine, which generally requires individuals to retreat if safely possible before using deadly force in public. The state also provides Castle Doctrine protections, protecting individuals who use force against intruders in their home, vehicle, or place of business.
Red Flag Laws & Preemption
California has enacted a red flag law (Extreme Risk Protection Order). This law allows law enforcement or family members to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others. Additionally, California allows local municipalities to enact their own firearms regulations.
Buying Online & FFL Transfers in California
Federal and state rules can affect an online firearm purchase and its transfer. Confirm the receiving dealer's requirements, availability, and fees before placing an order. Use our FFL dealer directory for California to find local businesses and contact them directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a permit to buy a gun in California?
- Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) required to purchase. California requires a permit or license to purchase certain firearms. All FFL purchases require a federal background check.
- Is concealed carry legal in California?
- CCW permit required through county sheriff. A permit is required for concealed carry in California.
- Does California have a waiting period?
- 10-day waiting period for all firearms.
- Does California have a red flag law?
- California has enacted a red flag law (Extreme Risk Protection Order).
- Where can I find FFL dealers in California?
- Visit our FFL dealer directory for California to find local businesses and contact them about transfer services and fees.
Source, Editorial Status & Scope
Dataset maintained by: WeaponDepot Editorial. Last recorded editorial update: 2026-05-01. No named individual reviewer or professional credentials are recorded, so this page does not claim professional review. This page is general educational information, not legal advice. Laws, agency guidance, local ordinances, and court decisions can change.
Change history: No itemized change note is recorded for this revision.
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