Background Checks For Ammunition In California | Attorney Explains

Published on July 20, 2019
Duration: 9:26

As of July 1st, California requires background checks for ammunition purchases. Individuals in the Automated Firearm System (AFS) undergo a check with a $1 fee, while those not in AFS face a $19 fee and a 10-day waiting period. This law mandates the reporting of extensive personal data to the California DOJ with each ammo purchase, impacting both residents and out-of-state visitors.

Quick Summary

California now requires background checks for ammunition purchases. If you're in the AFS system, it's a $1 fee. If not, expect a $19 fee and a 10-day wait. This law mandates reporting of extensive personal data to the California DOJ with every ammo purchase.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and New Law Overview
  2. 00:15Ammunition Purchase Requirements
  3. 00:39The AFS System and Eligibility Checks
  4. 01:38Background Checks for Non-AFS Individuals
  5. 01:5110-Day Waiting Period and Purchase Validity
  6. 02:25Impact on Out-of-State Buyers
  7. 03:03Registration Aspect and Data Collection
  8. 03:35Information Reported to California DOJ
  9. 04:08Effects After July 1st: Delays and Preparedness
  10. 05:01Business Impact: Sales Down
  11. 05:37Citizens Turned Away: ID Issues
  12. 05:51California Real ID and Restrictions
  13. 06:45Process for Out-of-Staters
  14. 07:1310-Day Wait and Transaction Number
  15. 08:13Legal Challenge: Injunction Update
  16. 09:15Conclusion and Q&A

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the new law regarding ammunition purchases in California?

As of July 1st, California requires an eligibility check, essentially a background check, for all ammunition purchases. This involves checking if you are in the Automated Firearm System (AFS) or undergoing a new check with a fee and potential waiting period.

How much does the ammunition background check cost in California?

If you are already in the California AFS system from a prior firearm purchase, the check costs $1. If you are not in the AFS system, you will pay $19 for a basic eligibility check by the California DOJ.

Is there a waiting period for buying ammunition in California?

Yes, if you are not in the AFS system, you are subject to a 10-day waiting period after the California DOJ conducts its basic eligibility check before you can pick up your ammunition.

What information does California collect when you buy ammunition?

Under California Penal Code 30352, the DOJ collects the date of sale, purchaser's ID details, brand/type of ammo, purchaser's name and signature, salesperson's name, purchaser's address and phone number, and purchaser's birthday.

How does California's ammo background check affect out-of-state visitors?

Out-of-state visitors looking to purchase ammunition in California must also undergo the eligibility check, pay the $19 fee, and wait 10 days. The purchase is then valid for 30 days only at the location where the check was performed.

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