California is Not What She Used to Be
If you’re a California resident who wants to carry a handgun for personal protection, you’ve likely heard about the concealed carry laws California imposes—some say they’re among the most restrictive in the nation. Since the Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling in NYSRPA v. Bruen, California has shifted to a “shall-issue” system, but new hurdles keep arising. From concealed carry training mandates to uncertain local rules, the Golden State’s CCW environment remains complicated. Below, we’ll untangle the current facts, examine recent updates, and guide you through navigating this ever-evolving landscape while still respecting CCW requirements by state.
Table of Contents
California’s Shift to Shall-Issue
After the 2022 Supreme Court decision, California is now technically a shall-issue state, meaning if you meet baseline qualifications, the issuing authority (often your county sheriff or police chief) must grant you a CCW license. Despite that shift, concealed carry laws California enforces remain restrictive. For instance, local agencies can impose additional conditions, such as psychological evaluations or more extensive background checks.
In short, CA is still a quagmire of anti-self-defense communists. Your best bet in CA to get a CCW is to live in a rural county and be friendly with the local law enforcement.
Eligibility and CCW Requirements
The CCW requirements by state vary widely, and California’s approach is often seen as tough compared to others. Generally, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Show good moral character
- Reside (or work) in the county where you apply
- Pass thorough background checks and possibly psychological testing
- Complete a recognized concealed carry training course
California does allow certain non-residents who work in the state or serve in the military to apply. Still, local jurisdictions hold significant sway, so you may experience different standards from county to county.
Concealed Carry Training & Permit Process
For initial applicants, California mandates at least 16 hours of concealed carry training, which must include:
- Firearm safety and safe storage
- State firearms laws and self-defense regulations
- Live-fire exercises demonstrating shooting proficiency
Renewals require eight-hour refresher courses. Some counties might further push training up to 24 hours if they’ve adopted local rules. Once you pass training, you’ll need to fill out an application through your sheriff or police chief. Expect to undergo fingerprinting (Livescan) and pay application fees that can exceed $70. After approval, you might wait several more weeks before officially receiving the license.
Where You Can and Cannot Carry
If your license is approved, you can carry concealed in most public places, but concealed carry laws California maintain extensive no-go zones:
- Schools and Colleges: K–12 school grounds are largely off-limits, though you can store an unloaded handgun in a locked container inside your car. Colleges and universities require explicit permission.
- Government Buildings: Courthouses and post offices are prohibited. Specific local buildings may also bar concealed carry.
- Bars and Restaurants Serving Alcohol: As of January 1, 2024, it’s illegal to carry a concealed weapon in businesses that serve alcohol for on-site consumption.
- Public Gatherings & Private Businesses: Public gatherings requiring a permit—such as street fairs—and private property posted with “no firearms” signage are off-limits. Always check posted rules.
Note that “preemption” laws in California aren’t absolute. Cities can enact local ordinances (for example, city property bans). This patchwork approach complicates your daily carry choices. Many counties also ban carrying in county-owned buildings, so remain vigilant.
Self-Defense and Castle Doctrine
The state follows a “Castle Doctrine,” which allows the use of lethal force within your home if you reasonably believe an intruder intends great harm. Outside the home, while there’s no official stand-your-ground law, California courts often side with the idea that you have no duty to retreat if you’re in a place you have a right to be. But keep in mind: lethal force must be proportionate to the threat. Overstepping that line could expose you to criminal or civil liability, and depending on the jurisdiction, and other “circumstances” you may face criminal prosecution when you otherwise would not have.
For general information on self-defense laws, we list a number of excellent resources that you can see in our online resources section.
Transporting Firearms & Ammunition
Without a CCW license, handguns must be locked (in a trunk or sealed container) and unloaded when in your vehicle. Ammunition should not be attached to or inserted in the firearm, though it can be kept in the same locked container if it isn’t in the gun itself. Once you hold a valid CCW, you can conceal your loaded pistol on your person in the car, so long as you obey the local license restrictions.
As for ammo, California enforces background checks for nearly all ammunition purchases in-state. Residents face a 10-day waiting period when purchasing firearms, and most firearms must be approved on the state’s roster for sale.
Magazine Limits and “Assault Weapons” Overview
California still maintains a 10-round magazine cap. Ongoing legal battles around “large-capacity” magazines remain in flux—some lawsuits on the constitutionality of such bans are still playing out in federal courts. For now, state authorities maintain it’s unlawful to buy, sell, or import magazines exceeding 10 rounds. Meanwhile, “assault weapons” restrictions are extensive, banning many semiauto rifles and pistols by name or by features such as pistol grips, folding stocks, or threaded barrels.
Important Legal Pitfalls
- Brandishing: There’s no specific “brandishing” definition in statute, but exhibiting a firearm in a threatening manner that’s not justified by self-defense is a punishable offense.
- Red Flag Laws: Family members, teachers, or law enforcement can petition to remove your firearms if you’re deemed a threat.
- Local Overreach: Some cities impose extra conditions, such as mandatory safe storage in your home or rules about carrying in city buildings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to notify an officer I’m carrying if pulled over?
A: California law doesn’t require you to inform an officer about your concealed firearm. However, the issuing county may place a must-inform clause on your permit. Check your local guidelines.
Q: Is open carry legal?
A: Generally, open carry is banned unless you have a restricted rural county license where the population is under 200,000 and you meet special criteria. That license, if issued, only applies within that county.
Q: Are out-of-state permits honored in California?
A: No. California does not recognize any other state’s CCW permit.
Q: What if I move counties?
A: If you relocate, your existing permit may expire 90 days after your new residency. You must apply again in your new county.
Final Thoughts
While the concealed carry laws California imposes can be daunting, you can attempt to remain compliant by thoroughly understanding the system. Though there are plenty of catch 22’s that lurk under the surface.
Above all, keep up with CCW requirements where you are going if you plan to travel inside or outside California. If you would like a guide that is in an easily printable format, you can visit HandgunLaw.us here.
Concealed Carry Laws California: Q&A Section
CARRY BASICS QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CHEMICAL SPRAY/PEPPER SPRAY? Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in California? | Yes. Pepper spray canisters holding up to 2.5 ounces (net) are legal if used for self-defense purposes only. Cal. Pen. Code § 22810 Notes:
|
| GUN PERMIT LICENSURE? If the state requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued? | California is currently a shall-issue state per the Supreme Court’s ruling in NYSRPA v. Bruen. A license (CCWL) is issued by county sheriffs or city police chiefs. |
| OPEN CARRY PERMITTED? Is open carry permitted in California? | Largely prohibited. A license to carry openly loaded handguns may be granted but only valid in counties under 200,000 population. In most other areas, loaded or unloaded open carry is unlawful. Cal. Pen. Code § 26350 |
| TASERS OR STUN GUNS? Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in California? | Yes, with no permit required. However:
Cal. Pen. Code §§ Part 171b(a)(5), 626.10, 244.5 |
| WEAPONS OTHER THAN HANDGUNS ALLOWED? Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in California with a CCWL (or under permitless carry if it existed)? | No. Only handguns (pistols/revolvers) are authorized on a CCWL in California. Cal. Pen. Code § 26150 |
| AMMUNITION RESTRICTIONS? Does the state have ammunition restrictions? | Yes:
Cal. Pen. Code §§ 30312(c), 16460 |
| MAGAZINE LIMITS FOR HANDGUNS? Does the state have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns? | Yes. Magazines holding over 10 rounds are banned. Note: The ban remains in litigation as of 2023-2024, but enforcement is still effectively in place except for those lawfully possessed between March 29 and April 5, 2019. Cal. Pen. Code § 32310 |
| MINIMUM AGE FOR CONCEALED CARRY? What is the minimum age in California to get a concealed carry license? | 21 years old. |
| CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY? Does the state allow constitutional carry? | No. A permit is still required to carry concealed in California. |
CARRY LOCATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| CARRY IN RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE ALCOHOL? Can you carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol in California? | No, effective January 1, 2024, it is prohibited to carry in any place selling alcohol for consumption on the premises, including restaurants with bar areas. |
| CARRY IN STATE/NATIONAL PARKS, STATE/NATIONAL FORESTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS? Is concealed carry allowed in these areas? | No, effective January 1, 2024. Exceptions may apply for designated hunting or shooting areas in national forests, but typically carry is prohibited under the new “sensitive locations” law. |
| CARRY IN VEHICLE? Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in California? | Yes, only with a California CCWL. Without a license, you must store the unloaded handgun locked in the trunk or a locked container, separate from ammo. Cal. Pen. Code § 25610 |
| CARRY/POSSESS AT A HOTEL? Can you carry or possess a firearm on hotel property in California? | California law doesn’t specifically address hotels. Each hotel sets policy; ask management about firearms policy. |
| CARRY AT ROADSIDE REST AREAS? Is it legal to carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in California? | Yes, but only with a California CCWL. |
| STORE IN A VEHICLE IN AN EMPLOYEE PARKING LOT? Does California have laws about firearm storage in employee parking lots? | No statewide requirement. Private businesses may set their own rules. Some localities restrict or ban firearms in parking lots they own/control. |
KEY STATE LAWS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| PUBLIC ACCESS TO CONCEALED CARRY REGISTRY? Is CCW license info public in California? | Yes. CCWL records may be public under certain conditions, though addresses may be redacted. Some local agencies may withhold sensitive info, but it can be partially accessible. |
| DUTY TO INFORM OFFICER YOU’RE CARRYING? Must you notify police if you’re carrying in California? | There is no law requiring you to volunteer that you’re carrying. However, some counties impose “must notify” conditions. If asked by law enforcement, you should disclose. |
| RED FLAG LAW? Does the state have a red flag law? | Yes. Family, police, coworkers, and school staff can petition to remove firearms & ammo from persons deemed a threat for 1-5 years. Cal. Pen. Code § 18150 |
| “NO WEAPONS ALLOWED” SIGNS ENFORCED? Are these signs enforced in California? | Generally, “No Guns” signs on private property are not legally binding per se. However, refusal to leave if asked can lead to trespassing charges. Public buildings can be off-limits by statute. |
| TRIBAL LAND? May you carry a firearm on tribal land in California? | Tribal jurisdictions set their own rules. Many prohibit firearms or require permission. Always contact the tribe before bringing in a firearm. |
| CARRY WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE? Does the state address carrying while impaired? | No direct statute forbids carry while under the influence, but CCW conditions generally prohibit carrying while consuming or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. |
| NON-RESIDENT PERMITTING? Does California issue CCW licenses to non-residents? | Very limited. Non-resident licenses may be issued to people who work in CA or are military stationed in CA, at the discretion of local authorities. |
| BRANDISHING? Is there a brandishing law in California? | Not by that term. However, drawing/exhibiting a firearm in a rude or threatening manner outside of self-defense is a crime. Cal. Pen. Code § 417 |
| DRIVER’S LICENSE LINKED TO CARRY PERMIT? Is my driver’s license linked to my CCW license? | Yes. The CCW license is linked, but officers may not see that info on all routine checks. You might still need to show your license if asked. |
| PREEMPTION? Do state laws override local gun laws? | Partially, but not complete. California law largely preempts local gun laws regarding manufacture/registration, but localities may still regulate storage, discharge, & certain restrictions. Cal. Gov. Code § 53701 |
HANDGUN PURCHASE & POSSESSION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WAITING PERIOD? Is there a waiting period after buying a handgun in California? | Yes. 10-day waiting period for all firearm purchases. |
| PERMIT EXEMPTS FROM BACKGROUND CHECK? Does a permit exempt you from checks in California? | No. Only certain CA permits (like Entertainment Firearms License) can bypass some checks. |
| PURCHASE PERMITS? Are permits required to buy a handgun in California? | You must have a Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) or qualify for an FSC exemption (e.g., law enforcement, CCWL holder) to purchase any handgun. |
| BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR PRIVATE GUN SALES? Are private transfers subject to checks? | Yes, all sales/transfers must go through a licensed dealer for a background check. Immediate family gifts (parent/child) have special reporting requirements. |
| MINIMUM AGE TO POSSESS AND TRANSPORT? What’s the minimum age to possess/transport a handgun? | 18 years old. Minors under 18 generally can’t possess a concealable firearm. Cal. Pen. Code §§ 29610, 29615 |
| POSSESS A HANDGUN ON MY PRIVATE PROPERTY WITHOUT A PERMIT? Is a license required to have a handgun at home? | No. Anyone 18+ (not prohibited) may keep/possess openly or concealed at home, business, or owned property. Cal. Pen. Code 25605 |
| HANDGUN REGISTRATION? Are handguns registered in CA? | Yes. The DOJ keeps records of all sales/transfers. New residents must file a report or transfer through a dealer within 60 days. Cal. Pen. Code §§ 17000, 27560 |
CONCEALED CARRY RECIPROCITY WITH OTHER STATES
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT ARE ALL STATE CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES DOES CALIFORNIA HONOR? | California does not honor any other state’s CCW licenses. No reciprocity. |
| WHAT ARE ALL OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RECIPROCITY WITH CALIFORNIA? | The following states recognize CA permits:
|
| WHAT ARE ALL THE OTHER STATES THAT HAVE RESTRICTED RECIPROCITY WITH CALIFORNIA? | These states only honor CA resident licenses, or have additional conditions:
|
| WHAT ARE ALL THE PERMITLESS CARRY STATES? | Alabama (19+), Alaska (21+), Arizona (21+), Arkansas (18+), Florida (21+), Georgia (21+), Idaho (18+), Indiana (18+), Iowa (21+), Kansas (21+), Kentucky (21+), Louisiana (21+), Maine (21+), Mississippi (21+), Missouri (19+/18 for mil.), Montana (18+), Nebraska (21+), New Hampshire (18+), North Dakota (18+), Ohio (21+), Oklahoma (21+), South Carolina (18+), South Dakota (18+), Tennessee (18+), Texas (21+), Utah (21+), Vermont (18+), West Virginia (21+), Wyoming (21+). *PC-18 = permitless carry if at least 18 years old *PC-21 = permitless carry if at least 21 years old |
CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE INFORMATION QUESTIONS
| QUESTION | ANSWER |
|---|---|
| WHAT DO YOU DO IF A PERMIT IS LOST OR STOLEN? | Contact your issuing sheriff’s office or police agency for a replacement process. |
| HOW LONG ARE PERMITS VALID FOR? | Generally 2 years, though some licenses can be valid up to 3 years for judges, and 4 years for reserve peace officers. |
| LINK TO APPLICATION | DOJ Standard CCW License Application. Local issuing agencies often provide the same form or have an online portal. |
| ARE NON-RESIDENT CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS ISSUED? | They can be in rare cases for those who work in CA or military stationed in CA, at the issuing authority’s discretion. |
| WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU MOVE TO OR OUT OF CAILIFORNIA AND WANT OR HAVE A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | If you move to California, you may apply for a CCWL if you establish residency or work here. If you leave CA, your license expires upon establishing residence elsewhere. |
| WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR A CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT? | Vary by county, typically ~$70 for initial, but can be up to $100 or more. Renewals ~$50-$60. Some agencies also charge separate fingerprint/processing fees. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME? | Within 90 days after background check completion. Times vary greatly by county. |
| WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES? | Notify your issuing authority within 10 days of changing address. They may amend or reissue your license. Your license can expire 90 days after moving out of the county of issuance. |
| WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? | – Good moral character – Resident or working in that county – Completed training – 21+ years old – Not prohibited by law from firearm possession |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS? | 1. Check local sheriff/police for instructions 2. Complete training (16 hours max, incl. live-fire) 3. Provide fingerprints, pay fees 4. Possible interview 5. License approval/denial within 90 days of background check |
| WHAT ARE THE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONCEALED CARRY LICENSE? | 8-16 hour firearms safety course including live-fire. Renewals require 4 hours minimum (8 hours as of SB2). Some local authorities require additional range tests or annual qualifications. |
| WHAT IS THE CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT RENEWAL PROCESS? | 1. Complete renewal course (min 4 hours, or 8 under SB2) 2. Submit renewal form/fees to issuing authority 3. Possibly new psychological or background check 4. Approval/denial typically within 90 days |
| WHERE CAN I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | – Most non-prohibited public areas unless restricted by new “sensitive place” law (SB2), effective January 1, 2024, which drastically limits carry. – Private property if not posted “no firearms.” – In a vehicle only with CCWL. – Some counties impose additional restrictions. |
| WHERE CAN’T I CARRY A CONCEALED FIREARM? | Sensitive places (SB2, 2024):
Pre-SB2 “off-limits” areas also include:
Violations of these bans can lead to criminal prosecution. |
| IS THERE A HUNTER HARASSMENT LAW? | Yes. It’s unlawful to impede or obstruct lawful hunting, fishing, trapping, or shooting. Cal. Fish & Game Code § 2009 |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE HUNTING? | Yes. Licensed hunters/fishers can carry an exposed handgun while actually engaged in hunting/fishing. No carry when traveling to/from the expedition unless firearm is unloaded & locked away if you lack a CCWL. Cal. Pen. Code §§ 25640 |
| CAN I CARRY WHILE BOW HUNTING? | Generally no. Archery hunters can’t carry a firearm unless specifically authorized in big game archery hunts. Deer archery hunts forbid carrying firearms except for certain disability or law enforcement exemptions. |
| WHAT ARE THE KNIFE LAWS? | – Fixed-blade knives must be carried openly (in a sheath). – Folding knives under 2″ can be concealed if folded. – Switchblades >2″ are illegal to possess or carry. Cal. Pen. Code §§ 21510, 21310 |
| CAN I WEAR A COVID MASK & CARRY CONCEALED? | California law prohibits carrying a firearm while masked to conceal identity. However, wearing a health-related mask might be argued as not intending concealment. But there’s no formal exemption. Cal. Pen. Code § 25300 |
| ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR LEO’S OR RETIRED LEO’S? | Yes. Under LEOSA (18 USC §§926B/926C), qualified LEOs & retired LEOs can carry nationwide. California has no consistent state-level standard for retired LEO qualification, so agencies set their own policies. |
Legal Note
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While every effort has been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances can vary. It is solely the reader’s responsibility to verify the accuracy and applicability of any information presented here. The author, publisher, and any affiliated entities assume no liability for actions taken by readers based on the content of this article. For specific legal guidance, please consult a qualified attorney.
