Updated January 08, 2024
A California firearm bill of sale is a document that proves a legal purchase of a firearm has taken place between a buyer and seller in the State of California. It must be notarized and signed by two witnesses. The state has some of the strictest laws in the country on firearm sales, ownership, registration, and public carry. Any person who wishes to own, sell, purchase, or carry a firearm in California will be required to register with the state, pass a rigorous background check, and prove a high level of competence in handling a firearm.
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Privately Selling a Firearm
To legally sell a firearm in California, a dealer or licensed person must meet all the following requirements:[1]
- Has a federal firearms license;
- Has any regulatory or business license, or licenses, required by the local government;
- Has a valid seller’s permit issued by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration;
- (Effective July 1, 2024) Has a valid certificate of registration issued by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration;
- Has a certificate of eligibility issued by the Department of Justice;
- Has a license issued in the format prescribed by Section 26705(c); and
- Is among those recorded in the centralized list.
If a private owner would like to sell their firearm to another private buyer, they must utilize a licensed seller as a third party to process the transaction and the physical transfer of the firearm.
Prohibited from Buying
According to California state law, the following individuals are prohibited from buying or owning a firearm:
- Anyone under the age of 18;[2]
- Convicted felons;[3]
- Individuals convicted of a misdemeanor involving spousal abuse or domestic violence;[4]
- Individuals convicted two or more times for illegally brandishing a weapon;[5]
- Individuals suffering from mental illness;[6] and
- Narcotic addicts.[7]
Registering a Firearm
The California Department of Justice keeps a registry of all sales and transfers of firearms in the state.
Concealed Carry
Concealed carry is not allowed in California without a License to Carry a Concealed Weapon.[8] The only exception to this rule is when a person who has a restraining order against another person feels that their life or well-being is at immediate risk.[9]
How to Apply
The minimum age to carry a concealed weapon in California is 21. Applicants must be of good moral character, have reasonable cause to obtain a permit, be a resident of or work in the county in which they are applying, and complete a firearm training course that satisfies legal requirements.[10]
Step 1 – Complete a Standard Initial and Renewal Application for License to Carry a Concealed Weapon.
Step 2 – Attach all required evidence.
Step 3 – Submit the application to the applicant’s local county sheriff or by mail to the California Department of Justice at Hall of Justice, ATTN: CCW Coordinator, 211 West Temple, Street 8th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
Step 4 – Pass a federal background check.
Step 5 – The California Department of Justice will approve or deny the application within 90 days of receiving it.[11]
Reciprocity
California does not have a law recognizing concealed carry licenses from other states. Concealed carry with an out-of-state permit or license is prohibited.