Currently, registration of rifles and shotguns is not required. However, this law may soon change. If any person seeks to know whether they can possess or purchase a firearm in California before a transfer is made, they may request a Personal Firearms Eligibility Check conducted by office of the Department of Justice.

Pursuant to Penal Code section 27510, a California licensed dealer is prohibited from selling, supplying, delivering, transferring or giving possession or control of any firearm to any person under the age of 21 years, except as specifically exempted.

If a shotgun’s barrel is less than 18 inches, it’s illegal. This is one of the most frequently asked questions about shotguns.

The number of transactions a gun seller can make without a firearms dealer license is now limited to six per year under SB 376. Portantino’s bill also sets a cap of 50 total firearms within those six transactions.

Gun laws for the state of California apply to everyone, even if you are not a resident. Moreover, carrying a concealed weapon without a state-sanctioned permit puts you at risk for being fined up to $10,000, arrest, or felony prosecution for violating Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules.

Carrying a loaded gun without a license is illegal in California even if the weapon is tucked inside a backpack, the state Supreme Court ruled Monday.

California prohibits carrying a loaded firearm in a vehicle in most locations. This prohibition is subject to certain exceptions, including for people who have a valid concealed weapons license. (See the Other Location Restrictions in California section for further information).

A U.S. citizen or legal resident over age 18 may generally carry a handgun anywhere within his or her place of residence, place of business, or on private property owned or lawfully possessed by the citizen or legal resident.

California law permits people to carry firearms either openly or concealed without license at place of residence, business, or lawfully possessed private property. A license to carry concealed firearm will be issued upon proof of good moral character and good cause.

In California, it is legal to buy, own, transport, and carry any knife that is not restricted. The three most common types of knives — switchblades, folding knives, and fixed blade knives (also known as dirks and daggers) — have certain rules surrounding them and are explained in more detail below.

If the blade is 2 inches or longer in length, it is illegal to carry a knife where the blade is released automatically. Knives, especially dirks or daggers shouldn’t be carried concealed. Concealment is a legal factor that YOU MUST AVOID. Schools are ‘weapon-free zones by law’.