To obtain a firearm safety certificate in California, you must pass a written test on firearm safety and laws. You can study for the test using the California DOJ Certified Instructor-led Firearms Safety Certificate (FSC) Study Guide, and then take the test at a participating DOJ Certified Instructor-led FSC Testing Center.
In California, anyone purchasing or acquiring a firearm must have a valid Firearm Safety Certificate.
To obtain a firearm safety certificate, you must pass a written test on firearm safety and laws.
You can study for the test using the California DOJ Certified Instructor-led Firearms Safety Certificate (FSC) Study Guide.
You can take the test at a participating DOJ Certified Instructor-led FSC Testing Center.
The difficulty of the test may vary for each individual, but studying the study guide is essential for success.
The firearm safety certificate is valid for 5 years from the date of issuance.
You may retake the test after a 24-hour waiting period.
No, the test must be taken in person at a qualified testing center.
There is a fee of $25 to take the test.
Active or honorably retired military personnel are exempt from the test but must provide proof of their status.
No, a firearm safety certificate from another state is not valid in California.
It is recommended to carry your firearm safety certificate when transporting a firearm, as it may be requested by law enforcement.
Yes, the certificate is required for the purchase or transfer of any firearm in California.
No, the certificate is non-transferable and is assigned to the individual who passed the test.
The firearm safety certificate is also required for acquiring firearms through a private party transfer.
5/5 - (68 vote) Categories FAQMike is a US Army veteran who spent 15 years as an international security contractor after leaving the military. During that time, he spent 2½ years in Iraq as well as working assignments in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Jordan, Israel, the Palestinian West Bank, Kenya, and Cairo among others. He is proud of his service to his country.
Mike is retired and currently lives in rural Virginia with his wife Steffi, who he met in Europe on one of his many overseas trips. He enjoys writing, shooting sports, and playing video games.