Transporting Firearms in California (2024)

HANDGUNS

Pursuant to California Penal Code section 25610, a United States citizen over 18 years of age who is not prohibited from firearm possession, and who resides or is temporarily in California, may transport by motor vehicle any handgun provided it is unloaded and locked in the vehicle’s trunk or in a locked container. Furthermore, the handgun must be carried directly to or from any motor vehicle for any lawful purpose and, while being carried must be contained within a locked container.

Pursuant to California Penal Code section 16850, the term "locked container" means a secure container that is fully enclosed and locked by a padlock, key lock, combination lock, or similar locking device. This includes the trunk of a motor vehicle, but does not include the utility or glove compartment.

SHOTGUNS AND RIFLES

Nonconcealable firearms (shotguns and rifles) are not generally covered within the provisions of California Penal Code section 25400 and therefore are not required to be transported in a locked container. However, as with any firearm, nonconcealable firearms must be unloaded while they are being transported.

REGISTERED ASSAULT WEAPONS

California Penal Code section 30945, subdivision (g) provides that registered assault weapons may be transported only between specified locations and must be unloaded and stored in a locked container when transported.

Pursuant to California Penal Code section 16850, the term "locked container" means a secure container that is fully enclosed and locked by a padlock, key lock, combination lock, or similar locking device. This includes the trunk of a motor vehicle, but does not include the utility or glove compartment.

Transporting Firearms in California (2024)

FAQs

What is improper transport of a firearm in California? ›

California Penal Code 25850 PC makes it a crime for a person to carry a loaded firearm in a vehicle or public place. Absent aggravating circ*mstances, a violation of PC 25850 is a misdemeanor.

Is it legal to travel to California with a firearm? ›

As a non-resident just visiting the state, you do not have to register your gun and your handguns are not restricted to what is on the Safe Handgun Roster. If you own it (and it is not an "assault weapon") you can bring it.

Can I carry an unloaded gun in my backpack in California? ›

Therefore, even if you conceal carry a gun that is unloaded and inoperable (for example, the firing pin is removed), it is still a violation of Section 25400, and you could theoretically be charged with a crime. The law prohibits you from carrying firearms on your person.

Can a carry a gun in the glove compartment in California? ›

Handguns must be carried unloaded in a locked container that is not the glove box.

Can I carry a gun in my car with a CCW in California? ›

Concealed handguns

California generally prohibits a person from carrying a concealed handgun in a motor vehicle, unless the handgun is in a locked container or the vehicle's trunk,1 or the person has a valid concealed weapons license.2. (Firearms carried openly in belt holsters are not considered “concealed”).

Can I carry a gun in California while hiking? ›

Outside of parks, it is also generally illegal to open carry guns while hiking. Though there may be exceptions depending on if you are in a small county and licensed to open carry. Before you hike anywhere in California, check with the local authorities about carry laws.

Can you carry a loaded magazine in your car in California? ›

There's nothing prohibiting you from carrying ammunition in the same locked container as the firearm, but the gun must not be loaded or attached to the ammunition in any manner.

Why is the Glock 43x illegal in California? ›

Why is the Glock 43 illegal in California? - Quora. Because CA legislators say it's “unsafe”. Their only rationalization is that Glock refused to “apply a microstamp” to the firing pin so that any rounds found at a crime scene will be traceable to the gun that fired it and, to the owner.

Are hollow points legal in California? ›

Yes, hollow point bullets are legal in California for both self-defense and law enforcement use. 2. Can carry hollow point concealed carry (CCW) California? Yes, carry hollow point CCW California as long legal carry firearm.

Can I take my gun camping in California? ›

You can have a firearm at your campsite while camping or fishing in California. However, there are many caveats. It is important to remember that in the eyes of the law a campsite is your home, albeit temporary. Like your home you may possess a firearm in your campsite.

Is it illegal to carry a gun without a holster in California? ›

California generally prohibits people from openly carrying loaded firearms (both handguns and long guns) in public,1 with a narrow exception for residents of smaller counties: under California law, the sheriff of any county with a population under 200,000 people, or the chief of police of a city within that county, may ...

Can you keep your gun loaded at home in California? ›

Can You Keep a Loaded Gun in Your House in California? California recommends that guns are stored safely, which includes remaining unloaded when not in use. Additionally, the gun must be stored with a state-approved locking device in a locked container, and the ammunition must be kept separate from the weapon.

How hard is it to get a CCW in California? ›

In California, obtaining a Carry Concealed Weapons (CCW) license is difficult. The sheriff has broad discretion whether to grant you the license. To apply, contact your county sheriff. You'll have to fill out an application and complete a firearms safety course.

Can you carry a pistol in the woods in California? ›

Licensed concealed carry is legal generally in a National Forest. Unlicensed concealed carry may be legal in your campsite. Loaded and unloaded open carry are illegal in "prohibited areas" including the campground. Loaded and unloaded open carry is legal in "prohibited areas" in your campsite.

Where can you not carry CCW California? ›

Where You're Not Allowed to Have A Concealed Weapon in California
  • Gun-free zone dictated by California Administrative Code.
  • School zones.
  • Government buildings.
  • The very specific circ*mstance of picketing or while you're refusing to work in an organized manner.

What is improper storage of a firearm in vehicle California? ›

(a) Except as otherwise provided in subdivision (b), a person shall, when leaving a handgun in an unattended vehicle, lock the handgun in the vehicle's trunk, lock the handgun in a locked container and place the container out of plain view, lock the handgun in a locked container that is permanently affixed to the ...

What makes a gun not California compliant? ›

A: California compliant handguns must undergo rigorous safety checks. These checks include firing 600 rounds without more than six malfunctions, ensuring no cracks or breakages, and undergoing six drop tests without accidental discharges.

What is unlawful possession of a firearm in California? ›

As noted, under Penal Code 29825 PC, it is a criminal offense to knowingly own, purchase, receive, or possess a firearm, or even attempt to do so, if you are under any court order or injunction that prohibits you from firearm possession. This includes any gun and ammunition for the weapon.

What is the penal code for carrying a firearm in California? ›

Penal Code § 25850 is the California statute that makes it a crime, absent a valid CCW, to carry a loaded firearm in a public place, on a public street, or in a motor vehicle. A violation is generally treated as a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in county jail.

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