Serving Highland and the Inland Empire
Clear California guidance
Start here for practical information about preparing for a firearm or ammunition transaction in California, then confirm current requirements with our team before visiting.
This page provides general educational information and is not legal advice. Eligibility, documentation, fees, exemptions, product status, and transaction requirements must be confirmed for each transaction.
Start here
Select a topic for a quick overview and links to additional information.
Prepare for an in-store purchase and understand the basic transaction process.
02Review the documents commonly requested before beginning a transaction.
03Learn when an FSC may be required and ask about testing at Highland Guns.
04Find preparation guidance for dealer, private-party, and family transfers.
05Review general preparation information for California ammunition transactions.
06Check the official state roster and confirm a handgun’s current status.
07Access California’s online firearm reporting system and official reporting forms.
08Learn about the DOJ Personal Firearm Eligibility Check application.
09Review reporting and transportation guidance before bringing firearms into California.
Transaction preparation
These summaries are starting points. Contact the store if you have any questions about your documents, residency, eligibility, exemption, or transaction type may require individual review.
Firearm purchases involve an eligibility review, required documentation, a dealer-recorded transaction, applicable fees, and a 10 day waiting period before delivery. The exact steps can vary by firearm and purchaser.
Review Store ServicesMust be at least 21 years of age to buy any firearm. Purchaser will need provide CA Driver’s License or CA ID Card, Firearm Safety Card and Proof of Residency for handgun, for long gun all you need is your proof of identity and firearm safety card.Some transactions may require additional proof of residency, citizenship or lawful presence documentation, exemption documents, or other records.
A valid Firearm Safety Certificate may be required unless a recognized exemption applies. Highland Guns offers FSC testing; No appoingtment needed and cost is $25
FSC Testing InformationDealer transfers, private-party transfers, interstate shipments, and certain family transfers can have different procedures. Do not arrange a shipment until Highland Guns confirms that the firearm and transaction can be accepted.
Transfer ServicesCalifornia ammunition transactions are subject to eligibility and identification requirements. The appropriate process can depend on how your information appears in state records. Bring your current identification at the time of purchse or ask our team what is needed if your information has recently changed.
Ammo LawsThe roster is maintained by the State of California and can change. A model’s presence, absence, or status must be checked using the official roster, and an exemption should never be assumed.
Search the Official RosterCFARS is the California DOJ’s web-based system for submitting certain firearm reports and applications. A CFARS account can retain online application history, provide electronic notifications, accept supporting uploads, and save application information for future submissions.
If you are unsure about your eligibility, California DOJ offers a Personal Firearm Eligibility Check application. The current BOF 116 form requires notarization, a right thumbprint, identification documents, and a $20 DOJ fee. The form says to allow approximately 90–120 days for processing and notes that a PFEC does not include every federal NICS record.
Download the PFEC FormCalifornia DOJ states that a person who moves into California with firearms acquired outside the state is generally considered a personal firearm importer and must complete one of the listed reporting or transfer options within 60 days. Firearms and magazines must also be lawful to bring into California. Review the official guidance before moving or transporting any firearm. Any person transporting handguns into California is required under California law to transport those handguns unloaded and in a locked container other than the glove compartment or utility compartment of a vehicle.
Primary sources
Use official state resources for current requirements and program information.
Before you visit
Call Highland Guns before heading in. We can help you prepare, but we cannot provide legal advice or guarantee eligibility before the required review is completed.