California Firearm Bill of Sale Form

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A California firearm bill of sale form provides the buyer and seller with a method of recording the transfer of a handgun, shotgun, or rifle. Both parties must present themselves before a licensed dealer when completing the document. At that time, the dealer checks the buyer’s criminal and mental health background. If the person passes the assessment, they must wait ten (10) days to pick up the firearm. The bill of sale must contain the sale logistics, such as the gun’s description and the personal details of the buyer, seller, and dealer.

What is a California Gun Bill of Sale?

A California gun bill of sale allows mentally healthy, law-abiding citizens over the age of twenty-one (21) to legally purchase, sell, and/or own a firearm. It serves as an informative document by outlining the process in which the sale happened. Other individuals should have an easy time reading and understanding the terms of the agreement by glancing over the form. Both parties must create a new record if it is difficult to comprehend or they need to make corrections.

Most individuals can purchase and own a firearm in California. The state requires the registration of guns upon purchase. Incoming residents have sixty (60) to register their weapons with the California Department of Justice (DOJ), Bureau of Firearms. However, restrictions apply to protect citizens and gun holders. A person cannot use or possess a weapon in the state if they are:

  • Felons;
  • Addicted to (or regularly using) drugs or alcohol;
  • Mentally disordered or incompetent;
  • Sex offenders;
  • Domestic abusers; and/or
  • Non-U.S. citizens (without a permit).

How to Apply for California Concealed Carry Permit

In California, it is a crime to open or concealed carry a weapon in a public area. Individuals can only legally carry on their property. Residents wanting to concealed carry in public must apply for a permit through a California Law Enforcement Agency.

Step 1 – Submit Application + Documents

The state makes it clear that sending an application does not mean a person receives a permit. Instead, the form acts as an initial review and helps the California Department of Justice (DOJ) Bureau of Firearms if they want to conduct an interview. The individual must fill out each question thoroughly and honestly for the best chances of approval. Most counties in California also require an application fee, which the applicant must pay when submitting the forms.

Step 2 – Attend Interview

Within ninety (90) days, the DOJ applicant approves or denies the applicant. If approved, the individual must set up an interview.

After providing the documents, the interviewer conducts a background check and takes fingerprints. The applicant must pay all processing and service fees at this time.

Step 3 – Training Course and/or Testing

If the candidate passes the interview, they must take a firearms training course. The class includes education on firearm safety and instruction on how to use a gun. New applicants must undergo sixteen (16) to twenty-four (24) hours of lectures. Renewals last only four (4) hours in comparison. Fees depend on the class but typically range from $100 to $ 200.

Applicants must undergo psychological testing if the interviewer requires it. Tests cost up to $150 and involve a conversation with a psychologist. The licensed therapist determines the person’s sanity and mental stability and whether they should possess a firearm.

Step 4 – Pay Fees & Receive License

Once the individual completes the firearms course and passes psychological testing, they must submit evidence of approval to their county office. Then, they receive further information on when and where to obtain their permit. Upon picking it up, they must pay the final fees (variable by county) and present a shooting proficiency form. To maintain their license, the resident must abide by California gun laws and renew their permit every two (2) years.