Did you know that state gun laws usually differ from federal gun laws?

Before purchasing firearms, it is essential to note that state laws may differ from federal ones, especially in California. The Golden State’s many restrictions make it one of the strictest in the nation.

These are the ways that California’s gun laws differ from federal gun laws

Waiting Period

Under the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), a dealer may transfer a firearm to you as soon as you pass a background check—which can take minutes. Although there is no federal waiting period, under California law, you must wait ten days before a firearm can be released to you.

Assault Weapons Ban

It is important to note that although not legal under federal law, you cannot possess certain AR-15 rifles with “bullet buttons” in the state of California and must have them modified.
There are 3 categories of assault weapons under California law:

• Category One: Firearms specified on the original Roberti-Roos assault weapons list.
• Category Two: Firearms specified on the AK and AR-15 series weapons listing.
• Category Three:
  • Firearms defined as assault weapons based on specific generic characteristics often called “SB 23 assault weapons.”
  • Firearms that do not have a fixed magazine, including those weapons with an ammunition feeding device that can be readily removed from the firearm with the use of a tool.

Purchase Limit

Federal law does not limit the number of guns you can buy in any given time. California law, on the other hand, prohibits you from purchasing more than one gun in a 30-day period—unless under special circumstances. However, there is no limit on the number of rifles and handguns that can be purchased.

Permit

Although neither federal law nor California law requires you to obtain a permit to purchase a firearm, you must pass a Firearm Safety Certificate test prior to the purchase.

Registration of Firearms

Federal law requires you to register your firearms; however, new California residents must report firearms ownership to the DOJ or sell/transfer them within 60 days.

Permit to Carry Concealed Weapons in Public

California requires you to obtain a permit issued by a sheriff or police chief in order to carry a weapon—except, in “off-limits” areas. There must be a reason, usually self-defense and the person must be of “good moral character.” As a “May Issue” state, the issuance of a permit is entirely up to the discretion of the local sheriff: some counties, including Los Angeles, refuse to issue permits. Regardless, a permit issued in one jurisdiction allows you to carry a gun anywhere in the state. However, a concealed carry permit issued in a different state will not be honored in California.

Purchasing and Possessing A Firearm

Federal law prohibits the purchase and possession of firearms by people who fall within certain categories, such as: convicted felons, domestic abusers, illegal drug addicts or abusers, people with specific kinds of mental health histories, undocumented immigrants, dishonorably discharged service members, and people with restraining orders. In addition to federal law, California prohibits those convicted of violent or gun-related misdemeanors and those deemed by the court to be a danger to oneself or others.

If you do not fall under any of the categories mentioned above and are not barred from purchasing a firearm, you must know that all of your firearms purchases and transfers, including private party transactions and sales at gun shows, must be made through a licensed dealer under the Dealer Record of Sale (DROS) process. This varies from a federal law, which states that a transaction between unlicensed private parties in the same state does not require record-keeping. A transaction between unlicensed private parties in different states requires transfer to a federal firearms licensee in the buyer’s state.

Possession of Large Capacity Magazines

Despite being legal under federal law, California bans selling or manufacturing ammunition magazines that can hold more than 10 cartridges or rounds. However, continued possession of large-capacity magazines that you owned in California prior to January 1, 2000, is legal, provided you are not otherwise prohibited. A person prohibited from possessing firearms is also prohibited from owning or possessing any magazines or ammunition.

Be a smart firearm owner and be aware of your state’s gun laws. ESPECIALLY in stricter states, such as California. You do not want to be on the wrong side of the law for simply not being aware of the rules.

Call a Los Angeles Gun Crimes Lawyer

RP Defense Law, APC offers a range of criminal defense services in the state of California. Call us if you’re facing criminal charges, such as unlawful possession of firearms, homicide or Federal white-collar crimes. Call 818-646-3443 today.