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We all know how hard it is to stay up-to-date with the ever-changing gun laws in California. It seems like any time you think you know how the system works, a new ruling is passed and you're back to the books. So, what do you really need to transfer a gun in California?
Firstly, we throw around a lot of terms in the firearms dealer world. Let's clear up some confusion.
FFL transfers are between a California resident and a non-California resident. These guns must be CA-compliant and, if applicable, on the CA handgun roster.
Private-party transfers (PPT's) are between two California residents. They are exempt from the CA handgun roster, but must not be considered assault weapons in California.
Intra-Familial Transfers are between a California resident and a relative who shares the same vertical bloodline (grandparent, parent, adult child, adult grandchild, etc.). They, like PPT's, are exempt from the CA handgun roster, but must not be considered assault weapons in CA. These transfers are gifts from the out-of-state family member.
Every transfer of a gun requires at minimum your CA driver's license (DL) and Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC).
If your DL has your current address on it, then you need one more proof of your address to transfer a handgun. If your DL does not have your current address, you need two proofs of your address to transfer a handgun, with at least one being issued by the government. See acceptable proofs of residency here.
Long guns only need one proof of your address (so if your DL is good, you're good).
If your DL is not a Real ID (it doesn't have the golden bear on it), you also need to provide a birth certificate or valid passport.
If you do not have an FSC you can take it at Cobra Tactical, or a valid CCW will work (or, if you're getting a long gun, a valid annual hunting license works). Certain exemptions apply.
For FFL transfers, we also need either the FFL or the driver's license of the person who sent the firearm to CA.
For PPT's, we also need the DL of the seller. If they don't have a Real ID, we need their birth certificate or valid passport, and if the address on their DL is not current, we need one government-issued proof of their address.
For Intra-familial transfers, we also need the DL of the family member and a letter saying they are gifting the firearm to you.
Any questions? Call or email Cobra Tactical for more specific help! Transfer your gun with us today!