People bringing guns into California must get a safety certificate within 180 days
Personal firearm importers get 180 days instead of 60 to report a gun brought into the state, and must get a firearm safety certificate in that time or face an infraction. Later, certificate applicants must first take a 4-hour course with live fire.
Who it affects
People moving guns into California and firearm safety certificate applicants
When
This law takes effect on January 1, 2027. California laws take effect on January 1 of the year after they are signed, unless the law says otherwise.
- : Signed into law
- : This law takes effect
- : Importers must certify they hold a safety certificate
- : Safety certificate applicants must first complete 4-hour training
Official text
California SB 948: Firearms: safety certificates.
On California Legislative Information. The official text is what counts; read it before you act.
Not legal advice. Plain-English summaries to help you find what changes and when. Not legal advice: read the official text, and ask a lawyer about your situation.