State of California
Current News
April 5, 2019 - California ban on high-capacity gun magazines was struck down. Can you buy them now?
Technically, the restriction against large-capacity magazines, defined as an ammunition-feeding device capable of holding more than 10 rounds, has been unenforceable since June 29, 2017 because of legal challenges. As a result, gun-owners were able to keep large-capacity magazines they already owned.
Judge Roger Benitez last week opened the door to the acquisition of new magazines in a decision that found the California gun control law to be an unconstitutional restriction on the right to own weapons.
Some gun retailers are eager to get back into the California market. Gun manufacturer Beretta this week advertised a 20 percent discount at its online store to celebrate Benitez ruling.
Retailer Palmetta State Armory this week also promoted California-themed social media posts. "We are getting prepared to send a whole lot of freedom to our friends in California," a Facebook post from the company read.
California Attorney General Xavier Becerra has asked Benitez to stay his decision pending an appeal, which likely would be heard before the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals; Becerra asked for the stay to be issued no later than Friday.
State Requirements
CCW Handgun License
Minimum age of 18
You are of good moral character
You have good cause to justify the permit
You are a resident of the county or your place of work is in the county
You have completed an approved firearms training class
You have not been convicted of a felony or certain types of misdemeanors
You are not addicted to drugs
You have not been diagnosed as mentally ill
Vehicle Carry
YES WITHOUT A PERMIT
You can carry a handgun in a vehicle provided you are 18 or older, you reside in California and the firearm is unloaded and stored in a locked container other than the utility or glove compartment. When the handgun is being carried to or from the vehicle it must be in a locked container.
If you have a concealed carry permit then you can carry a loaded firearm in a vehicle.
Open Carry
NO WITH or WITHOUT A PERMIT
Open carry is not legal even with a permit.
Must Notify Officer
YES and NO MUST INFORM OFFICER
California gun laws do not say you must inform a law enforcement officer you are carrying a concealed firearm or that you need to carry your permit. However, some counties are putting restrictions on permits that state the holder of the permit must inform if stopped by law enforcement that they have a concealed firearm. If you have such a restriction then you must inform. Its also best practice to carry your permit and photo ID whenever you have a firearm on your person.
Check your State
Legislation varies from State to State, so it is best to always check the State Laws pertaining to handguns before traveling to or through that particular State.
Click the link below to familiarize yourself with the basic legislation for each State in regards to Vehicle Carry, Open Carry, and Requirement to Inform Officers.
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