Firearms Licensing

California firearms licensing requirements, procedures, and regulations.

CCW Permit

Information about obtaining, renewing, and maintaining a California Concealed Carry Weapon permit.

California CCW Renewal and Maintenance
California CCW permits are currently valid for up to two years, and AB 1948 (Chapter 44, Statutes of 2026) raises the maximum term to three years for licenses issued on or after January 1, 2027. Renewal requires a refresher training course, updated Live Scan, and that the applicant not be a disqualified person under Section 26202. Permit holders have ongoing obligations including change-of-address notification and compliance with firearm listing requirements.
How to Apply for a California CCW Permit
A complete walkthrough of the California CCW application process following the Supreme Court's 2022 Bruen decision. SB 2 removed the good character and good cause requirements and uses statutory disqualification criteria. Applications go through the county sheriff or city police chief and require at least 16 hours of training, a Live Scan background check, and an in-person interview.
Non-Resident Firearms Rules in California
California does not recognize concealed carry permits from any other state. Non-residents bringing firearms into California must comply with California firearm and transport laws. Federal law also protects qualifying interstate firearm transport under FOPA. Within 60 days after bringing a firearm into California, a new resident who qualifies as a personal firearm importer must report it to DOJ or sell or transfer it through one of the lawful options in Penal Code Section 27560. This article covers the rules for non-residents, new residents, and travelers passing through California with firearms.

Firearms Safety Certificate (FSC)

Requirements and procedures for obtaining a California Firearms Safety Certificate, required for all firearm purchases.

Firearms Safety Certificate (FSC): How to Get One
The Firearms Safety Certificate (FSC) is required for firearm purchases in California unless the purchaser is exempt. It replaced the former Handgun Safety Certificate (HSC) on January 1, 2015, expanding the requirement to cover long guns as well. The FSC test consists of 30 true/false and multiple-choice questions, requires a 75% passing score, costs $25, and is valid for five years.

Dealer Licensing

Requirements for obtaining a California firearms dealer license, including FFL and Certificate of Eligibility requirements.

California Dealer Licensing: FFL and COE Requirements
California requires firearms dealers to hold a Federal Firearms License (FFL) from the ATF, a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the California DOJ, and any regulatory or business licenses required by local government, among other credentials. Dealers must also comply with extensive state record-keeping requirements including DROS submissions, facility inspections, and safe storage obligations.

Entertainment Firearms Permit

Permits for the use of firearms in motion picture, television, and theatrical productions in California.

California Entertainment Firearms Permit
California requires an Entertainment Firearms Permit for the use of firearms in motion picture, television, and theatrical productions. Governed by Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 29500) of Division 8 of the Penal Code, the permit covers the possession, transportation, and use of firearms, including blank-firing weapons, by licensed armorers and production companies on set.