How to Get an FFL in California
California is one of the most heavily regulated firearms markets in the country — and one of the largest. With the DROS background check system, mandatory Centralized List registration, a 10-day waiting period, the handgun roster, and an assault weapons ban, getting your California FFL requires navigating both federal ATF requirements and an extensive layer of state compliance. Here's the complete roadmap.
(3-year license)
Waiting Period
License Required
Background System
Eligibility Requirements
California FFL applicants must meet all federal eligibility requirements plus additional state criteria. California's Department of Justice (DOJ) performs its own eligibility screening through the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) process.
Federal Requirements (All States)
- At least 21 years old
- U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
- Not under indictment or convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year
- Not a fugitive from justice
- Not an unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance
- Not adjudicated as mentally defective or committed to a mental institution
- Not dishonorably discharged from the Armed Forces
- Not subject to a court order restraining you from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner or child
- Not convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence
- Have premises for conducting business
- Not prohibited from possessing firearms under federal, state, or local law
California-Specific Eligibility Requirements
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE) — Every responsible person on the FFL must obtain a COE from the California DOJ Bureau of Firearms ($78 fee). The COE confirms you are not prohibited from possessing firearms under California law.
- Local Firearms License (LFL) — You must obtain a firearms dealer license from your city or county licensing authority (per Penal Code §26700)
- Seller's Permit — Required from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA)
- Firearm and Ammunition Excise Tax (FET) Certificate — Required from CDTFA for the 11% California firearms excise tax (effective July 2024)
- Business registration — File with the California Secretary of State for LLCs/corporations
- Zoning approval — Local zoning for firearms businesses is strictly enforced in California; many jurisdictions have significant restrictions
In most states, your federal FFL is your license to operate. Not in California. You cannot conduct any firearms business with only a federal FFL. You must complete the full state licensing process — COE, local license, Centralized List registration, DROS system setup — before your first legal transaction. Plan accordingly.
FFL Types & Cost Breakdown
The federal FFL types are the same nationwide. California adds state-level costs that significantly increase total startup investment.
| Type | Description | Federal Fee (3 Yr) | Renewal (3 Yr) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Dealer in Firearms | $200 | $90 | Gun stores, transfer agents |
| 02 | Pawnbroker | $200 | $90 | Pawn shops dealing in firearms |
| 03 | Collector of Curios & Relics | $30 | $30 | Personal collectors (not retail) |
| 06 | Manufacturer of Ammunition | $30 | $30 | Ammo manufacturers |
| 07 | Manufacturer of Firearms | $150 | $150 | Gun builders, custom shops |
| 08 | Importer of Firearms | $150 | $150 | Firearms importers |
| 09 | Dealer in Destructive Devices | $3,000 | $3,000 | Requires CA DW License/Permit |
| 10 | Manufacturer of Destructive Devices | $3,000 | $3,000 | Requires CA DW License/Permit |
| 11 | Importer of Destructive Devices | $3,000 | $3,000 | Requires CA DW License/Permit |
California State Licensing Costs (In Addition to Federal)
| Requirement | Cost | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Eligibility (COE) | $78 per person | Annual (auto-renews) |
| DOJ Centralized List Fee | $20 per licensee | Annual |
| Local Firearms License | $50–$500+ (varies) | Annual (varies by jurisdiction) |
| Seller's Permit (CDTFA) | Free | One-time registration |
| FET Certificate (excise tax) | Free registration | One-time (11% collected on sales) |
| DROS Equipment (computer, mag reader, printer) | $200–$500 | One-time setup |
California is not NFA-friendly for civilians. Machine guns, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), and short-barreled shotguns (SBSs) are generally prohibited for civilian ownership. Suppressors are illegal in California. Dealers with FFL Type 09/10/11 may deal in certain items but require a separate California Dangerous Weapons (DW) License/Permit from the DOJ.
Step-by-Step Application Process
California's FFL application process has 10 steps — the standard 8 federal steps plus 2 critical California-only steps. Missing the state steps means you'll have a federal FFL you can't legally use.
Prepare Your Business Structure
Register your business entity with the California Secretary of State. Obtain an EIN from the IRS. Apply for a Seller's Permit from CDTFA. Before anything else, verify that your intended premises meets local zoning requirements for a firearms business — this is the #1 obstacle in California.
Obtain Your Local Firearms License
Contact your city or county licensing authority to apply for a local firearms dealer license (per Penal Code §26700). Requirements vary significantly by jurisdiction — some cities may require public hearings, security plans, or impose special conditions. In some California cities, obtaining this license can be the most time-consuming part of the process.
Choose Your FFL Type & Complete ATF Form 7
Download ATF Form 7 (5310.12). Most California gun stores select Type 01. Complete every field carefully — errors cause delays. Include your business details, all responsible persons, premises address, and intended activities.
Complete Fingerprint Cards & Photographs
Each responsible person must complete two FBI fingerprint cards (FD-258) and provide two 2×2 passport-style photographs. Many California LiveScan locations can roll fingerprints for ATF submissions.
Submit ATF Application & Fee
Mail the completed Form 7/7CR, fingerprint cards, photographs, and application fee (check or money order payable to ATF) to the ATF Federal Firearms Licensing Center in Atlanta, GA.
Notify Your CLEO
Send a copy of your ATF Form 7/7CR to your Chief Law Enforcement Officer — typically your county sheriff or city chief of police. This is a notification only.
Complete the ATF Interview & Inspection
An ATF Industry Operations Inspector (IOI) will visit your premises. In California, the inspector will be particularly thorough given the state's complex regulatory environment. Demonstrate knowledge of both federal and California-specific requirements.
Obtain Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
Apply for a COE from the California DOJ Bureau of Firearms. Cost is $78 per responsible person. The COE confirms you're not prohibited from possessing firearms under California law and must remain active throughout your FFL tenure. All responsible persons listed on the FFL must have valid COEs.
Apply for DOJ Centralized List
Submit BOF 4080 (Centralized List Application) to the California DOJ with copies of your FFL, local firearms license, COE, and Seller's Permit. You must be on the Centralized List before you can legally obtain or transfer any firearms in California. Annual fee is $20 per licensee listed.
Set Up DROS, CFLC, and Compliance Systems
Once on the Centralized List, DOJ will provide access to the DROS Entry System (DES). You'll need a computer, internet access, a MagTek magnetic card swipe reader, and a printer. Enroll in the CFLC program for interstate shipment verification. Set up your ATF Form 4473 processing — Bravo E4473 manages your federal 4473 compliance alongside California's DROS obligations.
Timeline & Process Flowchart
California's multi-layered process takes significantly longer than most states:
| Phase | Activity | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Application | Business setup, zoning verification, local license application | 2–8 weeks |
| Federal Application | ATF Form 7, fingerprints, photos, submit | 1–2 weeks |
| ATF Processing | Background checks, application review | 30–45 days |
| ATF Interview | Inspector visit, premises inspection | 1–2 weeks |
| Federal Approval | FFL issued by ATF | 1–2 weeks after interview |
| State Licensing | COE, Centralized List, DROS/CFLC setup | 2–6 weeks |
| Total | Start to first legal transaction | 90–150 days typical |
California-Specific Requirements
California imposes more firearms regulations on dealers than any other state. Understanding these requirements is non-negotiable — violations can result in criminal charges, license revocation, and civil liability.
Dealer Record of Sale (DROS) System
- California is a state Point of Contact (POC) — the DOJ runs all background checks, not the FBI directly
- Every sale and transfer must be processed through the DROS Entry System (DES)
- DROS fee is approximately $37.19 per transaction (paid by the buyer)
- 10-day waiting period applies to all purchases and transfers — no exceptions for CCW holders or return customers
- Buyers must pick up their firearm within 30 days of DROS submission or the transaction is cancelled
Handgun Roster (Certified Handguns)
- California maintains a Roster of Certified Handguns — dealers may only sell new handguns that appear on the roster
- The roster requires microstamping capability for new additions (since 2013), which has effectively frozen new models from being added
- Private party transfers are exempt from the roster — off-roster handguns can be legally transferred between individuals through an FFL
- Law enforcement purchases are also exempt, creating a secondary market
Assault Weapons & Magazine Restrictions
- California maintains a comprehensive assault weapons ban — dealers must understand the "features test" for rifles and pistols
- Large-capacity magazines (over 10 rounds) cannot be sold, manufactured, or imported — the legal status has been in litigation but the ban remains in effect as of early 2026
- FFLs may apply for a Large-Capacity Magazine Permit (LCMP) from DOJ for importation/exportation purposes
- "Featureless" rifle configurations and fixed-magazine designs are lawful alternatives — inventory planning must account for California compliance
Additional Dealer Obligations
- Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) — Buyers must present a valid FSC for all firearm purchases (obtained by passing a written test administered by a DOJ Certified Instructor)
- Safe Handling Demonstration — Required for all handgun deliveries; the dealer must witness the buyer demonstrate safe handling
- DOJ-approved safety device — Must be provided or verified with every firearm sale
- Secondhand firearms reporting — Firearms taken in trade, pawn, or consignment must be reported electronically to DOJ daily
- Employee COEs — Employees with access to firearms must obtain COEs ($78 each)
- Annual employee training — Mandatory firearms law training for all employees (required by July 1, 2026)
- 11% state excise tax — Since July 2024, California imposes an 11% excise tax on firearms, parts, and ammunition
- Ammunition vendor license — If selling ammunition, you must be a licensed ammunition vendor through DOJ, with separate background checks on ammo purchasers
- Posted warnings — Dealers must display required warnings about firearm risks and California laws
California FFLs maintain two parallel sets of records: federal ATF records (4473 forms, A&D bound book — 20-year retention) and California DROS records through the DOJ system. Bravo E4473 handles the federal side, while the DOJ's DES handles the state side. Both must be accurate and consistent.
The DROS System Explained
The Dealer Record of Sale (DROS) is the single most important California-specific system for FFL dealers. Every firearm transaction — retail sales, private party transfers, pawn returns, consignment — must go through DROS.
How DROS Works
- Buyer presents ID — Valid, non-expired California Driver License or ID card with current address. Additional proof of residency required for handguns.
- Buyer presents FSC — Valid Firearm Safety Certificate (or qualifying exemption)
- Dealer completes DROS form — Enters buyer information, firearm details, and transaction type into the DROS Entry System (DES)
- DOJ background check — The DOJ checks federal NICS, California criminal records, mental health records, restraining orders, and other state databases
- 10-day waiting period begins — Regardless of background check result timing
- DOJ issues approval, delay, or denial — If delayed, DOJ has up to 30 days to make a determination
- Firearm delivered after Day 10 — Buyer returns, completes safe handling demonstration (handguns), takes possession
DROS Equipment Requirements
- Computer with internet access
- MagTek magnetic card swipe reader (part #21080201 or #20140107) — available from MagTek at 1-800-421-5208
- Printer for DROS receipts
- DOJ DES account credentials (provided after Centralized List approval)
California requires all private party transfers to go through a licensed dealer. The dealer processes the DROS, runs the background check, holds the firearm for the 10-day waiting period, and charges a fee (up to $10 per firearm plus DROS fees). This creates a consistent transfer business for California FFLs, especially in areas with limited dealer options.
CLEO Notification in California
Federal law requires you to send a copy of your ATF Form 7 or 7CR to the Chief Law Enforcement Officer in your jurisdiction. In California, this is your county sheriff or your city chief of police. This is a notification only — the CLEO cannot approve or deny your FFL.
How to Find Your CLEO
- County Sheriff — California has 58 county sheriffs. Find yours through the California State Sheriffs' Association
- City Police Chief — If within city limits, notify your city's police department chief
Even though the CLEO notification is informational, California CLEOs may have strong opinions about firearms businesses. Sending the notification promptly and professionally helps establish a cooperative relationship — which matters in a state where local attitudes toward gun dealers can directly affect your local licensing process.
Home-Based FFLs in California
Home-based FFLs are technically possible in California but extremely difficult in practice. California's local zoning laws, combined with stringent premises requirements, make home-based operations challenging in most areas.
- Zoning — Many California cities and counties have zoning ordinances that prohibit or severely restrict home-based firearms businesses. Obtaining a use permit or variance may be required and is not guaranteed.
- Local License — Your local licensing authority may deny a home-based firearms dealer license based on neighborhood concerns, proximity to schools, or local policy
- Security Requirements — California imposes security requirements for firearms storage that may be impractical in a residential setting
- Signage & Access — Some jurisdictions require signage and customer access arrangements that conflict with residential use
- Inventory Limitations — Home-based dealers typically focus on transfers and special orders rather than maintaining large inventory
- Insurance — Commercial firearms dealer insurance is essential and may be difficult to obtain for residential premises
If you're in a major California metro area (Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, Sacramento, San Diego), getting a home-based FFL approved is extremely unlikely. Rural and unincorporated areas offer better prospects. Always verify with your local planning department and a California firearms attorney before investing in the application process.
4473 Requirements in California
California FFLs must manage both federal ATF Form 4473 requirements and the state DROS system. These are separate but parallel obligations — every transaction requires compliance with both.
Official Resources & Links
California FFL dealers need bookmarks to both federal ATF resources and California DOJ systems. Keep these accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
California Compliance Is Complex — Bravo E4473 Handles the Federal Side So You Can Focus on the State Side
Smart 4473 forms with real-time validation. Integrated A&D Bound Book. 20-year cloud storage with ATF audit portal. Auto-generated multiple sale reports. One less system to worry about in the most regulated state in the country.
Start Your Free Trial →© 2026 Bravo Store Systems. All rights reserved. | E4473.com | (888) 407-6287
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. California firearms law is complex and changes frequently. Always verify current requirements with the ATF, California DOJ Bureau of Firearms, and your legal counsel before applying.