Everything You Need To Know About Coming to CA With Firearms!

Published on May 1, 2020
Duration: 16:33

This guide outlines the process for new residents moving to California with firearms. It details the requirement to register imported firearms with the California DOJ within 60 days of establishing residency, using the 'New Resident Report of Firearm Ownership' form and a $19 fee. The video emphasizes that self-reporting beyond the 60-day limit will not incur penalties, citing relevant California Penal Codes.

Quick Summary

When moving to California with firearms, you can generally bring handguns, shotguns, and rifles, but assault weapon definitions and magazine capacity limits (over 10 rounds) apply. Off-roster handguns legally purchased out-of-state are permitted. You must register all firearms brought into the state with the California DOJ within 60 days using the 'New Resident Report of Firearm Ownership' form and a $19 fee. Late self-reporting is not penalized.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Moving to California with Firearms
  2. 00:52What Firearms Can You Bring Into California?
  3. 01:34California Assault Weapon Definitions for Rifles
  4. 02:33California Compliant Featureless Rifle Example
  5. 03:28California Compliant Fixed Magazine Rifles
  6. 04:13Bringing Magazines into California
  7. 06:32Off-Roster Handguns for New Residents
  8. 07:55Glock Models and California Roster Nuances
  9. 09:10Bringing Ammunition into California
  10. 10:11Buying Ammunition in California: Background Checks & Fees
  11. 10:48How to Transport Firearms into California
  12. 11:04Flying with Firearms to California
  13. 12:18Driving with Firearms into California
  14. 13:46Registering Firearms After Moving to California
  15. 14:16Personal Firearm Importer Requirements
  16. 14:39New Resident Report of Firearm Ownership Form
  17. 15:15Penalties for Late Registration (Self-Reporting)
  18. 15:46Conclusion and Disclaimer

Frequently Asked Questions

What firearms can I legally bring into California if I'm moving from another state?

As a non-resident moving to California, you can generally bring handguns, shotguns, and rifles. However, rifles classified as 'assault weapons' under California law, due to specific features like detachable magazines combined with certain configurations, are prohibited. Off-roster handguns legally purchased out-of-state are also permissible.

What are the rules for bringing magazines into California when moving?

You cannot bring magazines with a capacity to accept more than ten rounds into California. These are legally defined as 'large capacity magazines' and their importation is prohibited. Standard capacity magazines purchased outside the state are not allowed.

Do I need to register firearms I bring into California when I move there?

Yes, if you move to California with firearms, you are considered a personal firearm importer. You must register these firearms with the California Department of Justice (DOJ) within 60 days of establishing residency using the 'New Resident Report of Firearm Ownership' form and paying a $19 fee.

What happens if I miss the 60-day deadline to register firearms in California?

If you are beyond the 60-day window for registering firearms after moving to California, you can still submit the 'New Resident Report of Firearm Ownership' form. California Penal Code 27570 (a) and (b) state that you cannot be penalized for self-reporting, even if late.

Related News

All News →

More 2nd Amendment & Law Videos You Might Like

More from Armed Scholar

View all →