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How to Get an FFL in California

Some states, including California, have extensive firearm regulations that FFLs must meet to avoid criminal charges. At FFLGuard, we utilize our legal expertise to guide our California FFLs through the application process and any additional state requirements they need for success as a licensed firearm dealer.Since the FFL application is handled by the federal government, prospective FFLs in California will complete the same application, ATF Form 7, as other prospective FFLs around the country. The form requires demographic, business, and personal information to meet federal regulations and can be used for all nine FFL types:

  • Type 01: Dealer
  • Type 02: Pawnbroker
  • Type 03: Collector of Curios and Relics
  • Type 06: Manufacturer of Ammunition
  • Type 07: Manufacturer of Firearms
  • Type 08: Importer
  • Type 09: Dealer in Destructive Devices
  • Type 10: Manufacturer of Destructive Devices
  • Type 11: Importer of Destructive Devices

After going through the FFL application, including the interviews and background checks, California FFLs have a few extra steps to complete before they officially become a licensed dealer and can successfully complete firearm purchases.

Optional & Required Licenses

California Firearms Licensee Check (CFLC)

The required CFLC program allows the FFL to obtain firearms shipment verification numbers via the Internet prior to shipping firearms to any FFL in California.

Consignment/Pawn License

California state law requires a licensee to report electronically any secondhand /pawned firearms to the DOJ daily. Dealers with these firearms must obtain a license through the local licensing authority in the city/county in which the business resides.

Large-Capacity Magazine Permit (LCMP)

Any firearms dealership licensed pursuant to Penal Code section 26700 may apply for a DOJ Large-Capacity Magazine Permit (LCMP) to engage in the lawful importation and exportation of large-capacity magazines.

Dangerous Weapons (DW) License/Permit(s) Application

An applicant must have an FFL Type 09, 10, or 11 to apply for a Dangerous Weapons (DW) License/Permit through the DOJ. California applicants should also provide documentation as outlined in the California Code of Regulations, title 11, sections 4125 through 4153.

Certificate of Eligibility

This annual requirement ensures that all FFLs and their employees prove that the FFL can legally own a firearm.

Centralized Lists

FFLs are required to join one of the State of California’s Centralized Lists depending on their FFL type. FLL holders on all California Centralized Lists are required to have:

Centralized List (CL) of Firearms Dealers – FFL Type 01, 02, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11

Requirements:
  • Any regulatory or business license, or licenses, required by the local government
  • A valid Seller’s Permit issued by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration
  • A valid Firearm and Ammunition Excise Tax (FET) Certificate of Registration issued by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration,
  • A license granted by the duly constituted licensing authority of any city or county
  • A valid listing on the DOJ Centralized List of Firearm Dealers.

Centralized List of Exempted Federal Firearms Licensees (CLEFFL) – FFL Type 01, 07, or 08

Requirements
  • Provide the DOJ with a signed declaration enumerating the applicant’s statutory exemptions from licensing requirements

Requirements:
  • Any regulatory or business license, or licenses, required by local government,
  • A valid Seller’s Permit issued by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration,
  • A valid Firearm and Ammunition Excise Tax (FET) Certificate of Registration issued by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (if the firearms manufacturer engages in the retail sale of any firearms in California, including firearm precursor parts), and

Ammunition Vendor (Non-Firearms Dealer)

Requirements:
  • Any regulatory or business license required by local government,
  • A valid Seller’s Permit issued by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration,
  • A valid Firearm and Ammunition Excise Tax (FET) Certificate of Registration issued by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration

FFLGuard’s California Yearly Service Plan (CA-YSP)

Enhance your legal support and ensure compliance with FFLGuard‘s California Yearly Service Plan. Designed specifically for firearms businesses in California, the program includes:

  • Flat Fee Legal Representation
  • Michel & Associate’s authoritative book, “California Gun Laws: A Guide to State and Federal Firearm Regulations”
  • Monthly Client Only Webinars dedicated to California matters
  • Comprehensive tip sheet with professional advice on California state-specific issues
  • Client-only California Q&A/FAQ Library Access
  • 24/7 HelpDesk
  • California-Specific eCommunication
  • California-Specific Law Plus Guidelines

Established in 2008, FFLGuard’s cooperative legal and compliance program goes far beyond best practices in the business. We specialize in providing expert guidance on ATF compliance and legal protection.

FAQs

According to the state of California’s Department of Justice, there is no firearm registration requirement in California except for assault weapon owners and personal handgun importers.

Prior to purchasing or acquiring a firearm, unless exempted, you must have a valid Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC).

The California FSC written test on firearm safety is administered by Department of Justice Certified Instructors, who are often located at firearms dealerships.