Required documents
Documents required to purchase, sell or transfer a firearm in California
When purchasing firearms in California, the California Department of Justice (DOJ) requires specific documentation and compliance with certain regulations. Here are the key requirements:
- Proof of Identity and Age: Valid identification is required, such as a California driver's license or a state ID card. Military identification is also acceptable if accompanied by permanent duty station orders indicating a posting in California. However, temporary driver licenses and temporary identification cards are not accepted forms of proof of identity and age.
- Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC): Prior to purchasing or acquiring a firearm, unless exempted, you must have a valid Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC). You must present your FSC to the firearms dealer at the time you begin a transaction to purchase or acquire a firearm.
- Dealer Record of Sale (DROS) Form: A DROS form must be submitted through a licensed dealer to the California DOJ. The dealer collects the DROS information and documentation from the purchaser and submits it to DOJ electronically via the DROS Entry System (DES).
- Background Check: The California DOJ acts as a point of contact for firearm background checks. Dealers must initiate these checks by contacting the California DOJ. If the person is prohibited from possessing firearms, the dealer must make available to the prohibited person a DOJ “Prohibited Notice and Transfer” form.
Residency Documentation: When specifically seeking to obtain a handgun, the purchaser must present documentation indicating California residency. Acceptable documentation indicating California residency includes a utility bill from within the past three months that bears the individual's name and address as it appears on their California Driver License or Identification Card. Additionally, a residential lease, property deed, or a current, government-issued license, permit, or registration with a specified expiration date or period of validity can also be used. Examples of acceptable proof of residency include a Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) Permit, a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), a Curio and Relic (C&R) Federal Firearms License (03 FFL) with name and address, a current DMV Disabled Placard, a current DMV Registration, an electricity, gas, or cable bill, a resident hunting license, or a fishing license issued by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
