California:
Do you need a permit to purchase a gun?
Yes. Those who buy firearms must get a Firearm Safety Certificate and proof that the purchaser lives in the state.
Do you need to register your firearm with local law enforcement?
Yes. Fingerprints and identifying information are required from the owner of the gun, as well as who sold it to them. All guns have a serial number which is registered on a database along with the owner’s details. However, any guns owned prior to 1991 do not need to be registered.
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Must gun owners have a license for their guns?
No.
Do you need a permit to carry a firearm?
Yes. Though, depending on which California county, the difficulty of obtaining this permit varies. Some counties do not issue these permits at all, some do after background checks and other criteria, and some always give the permit regardless.
Does the state allow open carry?
Sometimes. In unincorporated rural areas, open carry is permitted. In a county with a population of less than 200,000 permits can be obtained by the county sheriff, valid only in that county. Finally, someone may open carry if they ‘reasonably believe that any person or the property of any person is in immediate, grave danger’ and that carrying the weapon will prevent that danger.
Does the state preempt local restrictions?
Yes.
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By GlobalDataAre there extra restrictions on assault weapons?
Yes. It is illegal to buy, possess, or import assault weapons and .50 BMG rifles unless they were purchased before June 1, 1989. Military members are allowed to own these weapons and bring them into the state with them.
Does the state restrict NFA weapons?
Yes. Automatic guns and short-barreled shotguns are prohibited unless the Department Of Justice has issued a Dangerous Weapons Permit. Normally these are only granted to filmmakers for movie-making purposes. Silencers on weapons are banned.
Does the state require background checks required for private sales?
Yes. A licensed dealer must conduct a background check and keep a record of the sale even for private sales.
