📅 2026 Update: Recent Changes to California Gun Laws

Since the original article on California gun laws was published, several important updates have occurred. These changes impact how firearms are purchased and carried across various states, including Michigan, Alabama, Kentucky, and Ohio. The details below highlight the most significant updates relevant to California gun laws and provide a clearer picture of the current landscape.

🔄 Michigan's Firearm Purchase Requirements

As of early 2024, Michigan has tightened its firearm purchase rules. Buyers must now have either a firearms purchase license or a concealed handgun license. For long guns, a background check from a licensed dealer is required within five days before the purchase.

This change aims to enhance safety and ensure responsible gun ownership.

🚫 Permitless Carry in Alabama and Ohio

Alabama enacted "permitless carry" in 2022, allowing individuals to carry concealed handguns in public without a permit. Similarly, Ohio repealed its permit and background check requirement for those aged 21 and older wishing to carry a concealed handgun. Both states have taken steps that reflect a growing trend toward less restrictive gun laws.

🔍 Background Checks and Processing Times

In Michigan, Alabama, Kentucky, and Ohio, background checks are a crucial part of the firearm purchase process. In Michigan, the Department of State Police conducts these checks. Other states also rely on local sheriff's offices or state police to ensure thorough reviews.

Applicants must complete these checks before buying a firearm, underscoring the importance of safety measures in gun transactions.

📅 Age and Eligibility Rules

Eligibility rules have also been updated in various states. In Michigan and Kentucky, applicants must be at least 21 years old. In contrast, Alabama allows individuals as young as 18 to apply for a concealed handgun license.

All applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents and free from legal prohibitions on firearm possession.

📌 Key Points Summarized

  • 🔄 Michigan requires a purchase or concealed handgun license.
  • 🚫 Alabama and Ohio have implemented permitless carry laws.
  • 🔍 Background checks are required in multiple states before purchasing firearms.
  • 📅 Eligibility varies: age limits differ between states.
  • 📞 State police and local agencies offer assistance for firearm purchases.

💡 Tips for Understanding California Gun Laws

Reviewing your specific situation with an attorney is important, especially when it comes to understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding firearms.

📜 Know Your State’s Requirements

Each state has its own requirements for purchasing and carrying firearms. Be sure to familiarize yourself with California's specific laws, as they may differ from those in other states.

🔍 Understand the Background Check Process

In California, background checks are mandatory for firearm purchases. Understand what is required and ensure you have all necessary documents ready before making a purchase.

📅 Keep Track of License Expiration

If you have a concealed carry license, keep track of its expiration date. Renewing your license on time is essential to remain compliant with state laws.

📞 Seek Assistance from Local Agencies

Local law enforcement agencies can provide valuable information on the firearm purchase process and any specific state laws you must follow. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

🎯 Stay Informed About Legislative Changes

Gun laws can change frequently. Staying informed about new legislation and updates can help you remain compliant with current laws and avoid legal issues.

📜 Know Who to Contact for Help

If you have questions about your rights regarding firearms, local law enforcement or state police can provide guidance. They can also help clarify any uncertainties related to gun ownership.

🏆 Services for Firearm Transactions Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

Various online services facilitate firearm transactions, providing platforms for buyers and sellers to connect. The following services are ranked based on Trustpilot data checked in October 2026. Remember that star ratings can change, and unhappy customers may leave more reviews, leading to varying scores.

🥇 1. GunBroker.com

GunBroker.com has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars. This online marketplace is known for facilitating firearm transactions between buyers and sellers. Users appreciate the variety of firearms and accessories available.

However, some reviewers note that customer service response times can be delayed due to high sales volume.

🆓 Free Assistance from Government Agencies

In various states like Michigan, Alabama, Kentucky, and Ohio, state police and law enforcement agencies provide information and assistance regarding firearm purchases. These resources can help clarify the process and ensure compliance with state laws.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing a Firearm Service

  • 🔍 Trustpilot scores and review counts.
  • 💬 Customer service response times.
  • 📦 Variety of firearms and accessories available.
  • ⚖️ Compliance with local and state laws.
  • 📞 Availability of support resources from agencies.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What are the age requirements for purchasing firearms in California?

In California, you must be at least 21 years old to purchase handguns and 18 years old for long guns.

🔍 How does California handle background checks for firearm purchases?

California requires all firearm purchases to undergo a background check. This check is completed through the Department of Justice.

📜 Are there limits on the types of firearms I can purchase in California?

Yes, California has specific restrictions on certain types of firearms, including assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

🚫 Can I carry a concealed firearm without a permit in California?

No, California requires a concealed carry permit. You must apply for this permit through your local law enforcement agency.

📞 Where can I find assistance regarding firearm laws in California?

You can visit the California Department of Justice website or contact your local law enforcement agency for guidance on firearm laws.

🔄 Are there any recent changes to California gun laws?

California law changes frequently. It’s important to stay informed through reputable news sources or government websites for updates.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Related to Gun Laws

Recent court rulings have impacted gun laws in various states, including California. These rulings often address the balance between individual rights and public safety concerns.

For more detailed information, you can browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






CALIFORNIA GUN LAWS & REGULATIONS UPDATE 2023

A DECADE OF CHANGE: AN UPDATED OVERVIEW OF CALIFORNIA’S GUN LAWS AND REGULATIONS TIMELINE (2013-2023)


Over the last ten years, California's gun laws have experienced substantial changes, reflecting the state's ongoing commitment to enacting comprehensive firearm regulations. From background checks to assault weapon restrictions, these updates have aimed to balance Second Amendment rights with public safety concerns. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the key developments in California's gun laws and regulations from 2013 to 2023, structured in the form of bullet points:

2013 - Background Checks for Ammunition Purchases:

- California becomes the first state to require background checks for all ammunition purchases, aiming to prevent prohibited individuals from acquiring ammunition.

California Gun Laws

2014 - "Gun Violence Restraining Orders" (GVRO):

- California introduces GVRO laws, allowing family members and law enforcement to seek temporary firearm removal orders for individuals deemed a risk to themselves or others.

2015 - Assault Weapon Restrictions:

- Legislation is passed to further define and restrict assault weapons, including prohibiting the sale of firearms equipped with bullet buttons and requiring registration of certain firearms.

2016 - Ammunition Sales Regulation:

- The state enacts laws to regulate the sale and transfer of ammunition, including requiring ammunition sellers to obtain licenses and maintain records.

2017 - Magazine Capacity Limit:

- California enforces a limit on magazine capacities, prohibiting the sale, importation, or manufacture of magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds.

2018 - Age Requirement for Firearm Purchases Raised:

- The minimum age for purchasing firearms is raised from 18 to 21 years old, affecting long guns and handguns alike.

2019 - Background Checks for Private Firearm Transfers:

- California expands background check requirements to include private firearm transfers, closing the "gun show loophole."

2020 - "Microstamping" Requirement:

- Legislation mandates that newly sold semi-automatic handguns must be equipped with microstamping technology, generating unique identifying marks on fired cartridge cases.

2021 - Assault Weapon Definition Extended:

- California broadens the definition of assault weapons, incorporating additional firearm features and components into the regulated category.

2022 - Restrictions on Open Carry at Protests:

- The state enacts laws prohibiting the open carry of firearms at public protests and demonstrations, aimed at preventing potential conflicts and ensuring public safety.

2022 - Firearm Storage Requirements:

- California introduces regulations mandating safe firearm storage to prevent unauthorized access and accidents, particularly in homes with minors.

2023 - Stricter Firearm Purchase Waiting Period:

- Legislation extends the firearm purchase waiting period from 10 to 30 days, providing more time for background checks and ensuring thorough reviews.

2023 - Restrictions on High-Capacity Magazines:

- The state further restricts the possession and sale of high-capacity magazines, aiming to reduce the potential lethality of mass shootings.

2023 - Enhanced Firearm Safety Training:

- California implements enhanced firearm safety training requirements for all firearm owners, emphasizing responsible gun ownership and usage.

California's gun laws have evolved significantly over the past decade, reflecting the state's dedication to addressing public safety concerns while preserving Second Amendment rights. From background checks and ammunition regulations to restrictions on assault weapons and magazine capacities, these changes underscore California's proactive approach to firearm regulation. As the state continues to adapt its laws to meet evolving challenges, it is crucial for stakeholders, policymakers, and citizens to engage in informed discussions to ensure a balanced approach that prioritizes both individual freedoms and community well-being.


California gun laws are among the most complex that exist in the country today. Like many other states in the United States, California gun laws do not require permits to purchase firearms, or the registration of rifles and shotguns.

However, California gun law does require the registration of handguns and firearms that are considered "assault weapons." The various law enforcement agencies in California record every single purchase of firearms that fall in to these two categories. The registration procedure also includes all new California residents as well, for they are only given a total of 60 days to register the necessary firearms upon moving to the state."

This is an obvious attempt to curtail some of the firearm activity in urban areas--specifically handguns and "assault weapons"--by various gang-related individuals. The mandatory registration for these types of firearms will make it much easier to locate the owner of a gun or weapon in the case of a criminal investigation.

The purchase of firearms by California gun laws also seem to present more stringent guidelines and regulations than other states. The sale of all firearms, including private sales, must be processed through a licensed and certified firearms dealer of California. An actual application must be filled for the sale of a fire arm with an authorized dealer; this also extends to any transfers of ownership, loans, and rentals as well. An application contains information regarding the purchaser as well as the firearm.

Purchasing a firearm in California is not a simple process. First, any individual seeking to purchase a firearm within the state of California must provide appropriate identification; either a driver's license or state-issued I.D. card, and another form providing proof of residence in the state. People who are not residents of the state of California will not be able to purchase firearms within its borders. A Handgun Safety Certificate must also be obtained in order to purchase a firearm, specifically handguns, which is given only after successfully passing a written test.

The written test is administered by certified instructors of the California Department of Justice, and is valid for five years. Furthermore, a thumb-print must also be provided at the time of submitting an application. The entire application is then processed--at a fee provided by the buyer--by the California Department of Justice, which conducts a thorough and rigorous background check for every prospective firearms purchaser. There is an imposed ten-day waiting period for all firearms purchases. If the purchase is approved, the dealer must register the actual transfer of ownership of the firearm and keep it on record.

The purchaser then has a limit of 30 days to pick up the weapon from the dealer. If the weapon is not picked up by the buyer within that time frame, the entire purchasing process must be repeated all over.  A firearm purchase is strictly limited to one weapon. A person seeking to buy multiple firearms can not apply for a another purchase within thirty-days of a previous firearm purchase. Also, a person can not accept delivery of another weapon within thirty-days of having purchased another firearm.

The regulations regarding the possession of firearms by California gun laws are similar to those of other states. A convicted felon, people with a history of mental illness, drug addiction, and/or mental instability are all ineligible to posses fire arms in California. The restriction is also expanded to include individuals with misdemeanor charges of a violent or forceful nature. Minors that have committed crimes that, if tried as adults, would have been felonies, or pertain to a violent nature are not allowed to possess any firearms until they reach the age of thirty.

No minor under the age of sixteen may possess a handgun, unless under the supervision and accompaniment of a parent or legal guardian while participating in activities that involve firearms; expressed written consent is also acceptable. This restriction also includes any kind of ammunition as well, not just firearms.

Under California gun laws, the carrying of loaded firearms in public is strictly prohibited. The only exceptions are, if the person is shooting at a range or hunting within the premises of a shooting club, is within the confines of his private property or place of business, is within reasonable concern for his/her life, and if a lawful arrest is occurring.

The carrying of concealed weapons is allowed under law, as long as the individual has a permit. This also includes handguns in holsters that are easily visible. When a firearm is located in a vehicle, it is permitted to be only in the trunk or in a secured and locked case or container to be considered as "unconcealed." Guns placed under seats or in a glove compartment, under California gun laws, in considered to be "concealed."

"Assault weapons" also have their own special regulations and restrictions under California gun law. It is strictly illegal to sale or transfer "assault weapons"--or a .50 caliber BMG rifle--in any way shape or form.

According to California gun laws, an "assault weapon" is defined as any firearm listed in the original provision of the Roberti Roos assault weapon law, any weapon in the AK and AR-15 series or other similar series, and lastly, any weapon that is classified as an assault weapon by the Department of Justice.

It is not illegal to possess an assault weapon in California, but it must be appropriately registered with the state. At this point in time, registration for these types of weapons has ended in California, and individuals in possession of unregistered assault weapons must relinquish them over to the authorities.

To legally dispose of a assault weapon, a person must sell it to a dealer certified to deal with that specific type of firearm, give it to the proper authorities, take it out of the state, or completely destroy the weapon.

Assault weapons may only be possessed at the registered owner's private residence, private property, or place of business. Specialized shooting clubs may also possess assault weapons, given the proper documentation. Also, in California, it is illegal to possess more than ten rounds of ammunition for any kind of assault weapon.