California Gun Laws - 2026 Complete Guide

Last verified: 2026-01-01 | Not legal advice - verify with your state AG

Prohibited Permit Required No Castle Doctrine Red Flag Law
⚠️ This is not legal advice. Gun laws change frequently. Always verify current laws with your state attorney general or a licensed firearms attorney before carrying.

Quick Reference: California Gun Laws

Open CarryProhibited
Concealed CarryPermit Required
Permit RequiredYes - required
Permit Cost$200
Permit Validity2 years
Waiting Period10 days
Background CheckRequired
Castle Doctrine✕ No
Stand Your Ground✕ No
Red Flag Law✕ Yes (ERPO exists)
Magazine Limit10 rounds maximum
SuppressorsProhibited
NFA ItemsRestricted

Open Carry Laws in California

Open carry is prohibited in California in most public places. There may be limited exceptions for transport to and from a range or for active law enforcement officers.

Concealed Carry Laws in California

Concealed carry in California requires a valid permit. California requires a CCW permit issued by local sheriff or police chief. Post-Bruen ruling changed the standard to 'good moral character' but counties vary widely in issuance. Permit costs vary by county, training required.

Where You Cannot Carry in California

The following locations generally prohibit firearms carry in California. This list is not exhaustive - always verify current law before carrying in any location.

  • Schools
  • Government Buildings
  • Hospitals
  • Public Transit
  • Parks
  • Beaches
  • Bars
  • Restaurants
  • Churches
  • Stadiums
  • Libraries
  • Sensitive Places

Federal law also prohibits carry in federal buildings, national parks ranger stations, and other federal facilities regardless of state law.

Getting a California CCW Permit

California requires a CCW permit issued by local sheriff or police chief. Post-Bruen ruling changed the standard to 'good moral character' but counties vary widely in issuance. Permit costs vary by county, training required.

Official California Permit Information

CCW Reciprocity for California

States that honor your California permit (0)

None

California honors permits from (0)

None

View Full CCW Reciprocity Map
Reciprocity agreements change frequently. Always verify current reciprocity with the issuing state's law enforcement agency before traveling. Some states have additional requirements beyond permit reciprocity.
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California Gun Law Cheat Sheet - Free PDF

Download our one-page quick reference for California gun laws. Open carry rules, carry restrictions, permit info, and CCW reciprocity at a glance. Keep it in your range bag.

Frequently Asked Questions: California Gun Laws

Can I open carry in California?
No. Open carry of handguns is prohibited in California in most public places. Long guns have limited open carry rights in rural unincorporated areas.
Does California honor other states' CCW permits?
No. California does not recognize any out-of-state concealed carry permits.
What is the magazine capacity limit in California?
California restricts magazines to 10 rounds. Possession of higher-capacity magazines acquired after 2000 is prohibited.
Does California have a red flag law?
Yes. California has one of the most expansive red flag (GVRO) laws in the country, allowing courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed dangerous.
What is the waiting period to buy a gun in California?
California requires a 10-day waiting period for all firearm purchases.

Shooting Ranges in California

Find pistol ranges, rifle ranges, and indoor/outdoor shooting facilities in California. Filter by type, features, and location.

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Neighboring State Gun Laws

Oregon
Nevada
Arizona