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 glove compartment in California? ›

Can you carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in California? Yes, with a California CCWL. Without a license, the firearm must be locked in the vehicle's trunk or in a locked container in the vehicle other than the utility or glove compartment.

Can you carry a concealed weapon in your car in California? ›

California Penal Code § 25400 PC makes it a crime to carry a concealed firearm on your person or in a vehicle unless you have a valid CCW permit. Carrying a concealed handgun without a valid CCW permit can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, punishable by up to 3 years in jail.

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 drive to California with a gun in your car? ›

You can legally transport firearms across state lines as long as: You can lawfully possess firearms in your state of origin. You can lawfully possess firearms at your destination. The firearm and ammunition must be stored out of reach (not in the glove compartment or center console).

Can you carry a gun across state lines into California? ›

Interstate Travel

Per federal law 18 USC § 926A, every U.S. citizen may legally transport firearms across state lines as long as he or she is legally allowed to possess the weapons in both the state of origin as well as the destination.

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.

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.

Can I take my gun with me on a camping in California? ›

Concealed and loaded open carry is permitted at a campsite per 25550 and 26055, however it may generate considerable interest from rangers and your neighbors.

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 ...

Are hollow points illegal 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 carry an unloaded handgun in California? ›

Penal Code 26350 PC is the specific California statute that makes it a crime to carry an unloaded handgun in a public place openly or in a vehicle. If you're convicted of this crime, you could face up to one year in county jail. It's a crime in California to carry an unloaded firearm in a public place or in a vehicle.

Can I store my gun loaded in California? ›

You may be guilty of a misdemeanor or a felony if you keep a loaded firearm within any premises that are under your custody or control and a child under 18 years of age obtains and uses it, resulting in injury or death, or carries it to a public place, unless you stored the firearm in a locked container or locked the ...

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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