Who is exempt from the FSC requirement

The DOJ’s list of exemptions

These are the exemption codes the DOJ lists for dealers, who enter one on the Dealer Record of Sale in place of an FSC number. [DOJ FAQ] [DOJ FAQ]

The study guide names the most common ones (FFL collectors with a Certificate of Eligibility for curio and relic transactions; active, reserve or honorably retired military; CCW permit holders; and people who have completed POST firearms training) and says its list is not complete. For the full list, it points to the DOJ website or the Bureau of Firearms’ general information line, (916) 210-2300. [DOJ guide p.1]

Hunting license: long guns only

A valid hunting license exempts you from the FSC for long guns only. [DOJ FAQ] To buy a handgun you still need an FSC.

Situations that are not exemptions

• A gift or transfer from your mother or father. You still need a valid FSC before you take the firearm, and you must report the transfer to the DOJ within 30 days. [DOJ FAQ]
• Borrowing a firearm. Generally you need an FSC. The exception is a loan of no more than three days where the lender is with you the whole time. [DOJ FAQ]
• An old Handgun Safety Certificate. Since January 1, 2015 an FSC has been required for long guns. A valid HSC could still be used for handguns until it expired. [DOJ FAQ]

When you don’t need an FSC at all

• Owning what you already have. Simply possessing or owning a firearm doesn’t require an FSC, and you don’t have to carry one with you. [DOJ FAQ]
• Moving to California with your firearms. No FSC is needed, but there are rules for bringing them in. [DOJ FAQ] The guide says new residents must report their firearms to the DOJ within 60 days, or sell or transfer them. [DOJ guide p.33]
• Getting your own firearm back. Firearms returned to their owners, such as pawn returns, are exempt. [DOJ guide p.32]
• Antiques. The FSC requirement covers any firearm except an antique. [DOJ guide, preface]

Proving an exemption

• Bring documentation of your exemption to the dealer each time you get a firearm. [DOJ guide p.1]
• The dealer keeps a copy with the DROS for three years. For federal credentials, which may not be photocopied, the dealer records your name, agency and credential number instead. [DOJ FAQ] [DOJ FAQ]
• An exemption from the FSC also exempts you from the safe handling demonstration. [DOJ FAQ]

Not exempt? Here is how to get your FSC, and 30 practice questions for the test.