Knives Procedure to purchase ammo in CA
Purchasing ammo in California involves a few steps to comply with state laws. Here’s a quick overview to make the process as smooth as possible:
Procedure to purchase ammo in CA
Purchasing ammo in California involves a few steps to comply with state laws. Here’s a quick overview to make the process as smooth as possible:
The Right ID for Buying Ammo in CA
Don’t Forget Your California Real ID!
Buying ammo in CA requires a background check, and proper identification is essential to complete the purchase. A California Real ID is the easiest way to meet this requirement and ensure a smooth process.
What If Your License Has “Federal Limits Apply”?
If your CA driver's license says “FEDERAL LIMITS APPLY” in the top right corner, you'll need to bring an additional form of proof to complete the background check.
Accepted proof include the following combinations:
- California Real ID (No additional documentation needed)
- California Driver's License AND a U.S. birth certificate
- California Driver's License AND a valid, nonexpired U.S. passport
As a licensed ammunition dealer, we are required by law to run background checks for every ammo sale. To avoid delays or complications, double-check that you have the right identification before heading to our store. If you're unsure what to bring, feel free to give us a call at (949) 485—1502!
Who Can Buy Ammo in CA?
Must be eligible to own firearms.
Anyone who is prohibited from owning firearms Cannot buy ammunition
Age Requirements:
- 18+ years old for ammunition sales.
- 21+ years old for handgun ammunition.
Not sure if you are eligible?
Want to check your eligibility before stopping by? You can fill out a "Personal Firearms Eligibility Check Application" (BOF-116 form). Once it’s filled out, you’ll need to get it notarized and mail it to the DOJ with a small fee. The DOJ will run the check, but be aware—it can take up to 90 days to get your results.
Ammo Purchase Background Checks
As of July 1, 2019, California law requires a background check for every ammunition purchase (Penal Code §30352). It’s the buyer’s responsibility to choose the type of background check to use. Our team can help you determine the best option for your situation.
3 Types of Background Check Options
AFS Records Check Match
- Best For? Buyers who’ve purchased firearms in California and have records in the Automated Firearms System (AFS). You’ll likely have an AFS record if you’ve bought a handgun after January 1, 1990, or a long gunafter January 1, 2014.
- Cost: $1 fee.
- Time: About 2—3 minutes.
- Why Choose This? This option is quick and works if your AFS record matches your current ID information (name and address).
COE Verification
The DOJ verifies your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to confirm eligibility.
- Best For? Buyers with a valid, nonexpired Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
- Cost: $1 fee.
- Time: About 2—3 minutes.
- Why Choose This? It’s the quickest option if you have a COE.
Basic Ammunition Eligibility Check
- Best For? Buyers who don’t have a COE or matching AFS record.
- Cost: $19 fee.
- Time: Processing times vary, with a possible waiting period of up to 30 days.
- Why Choose This? This is the fallback option if neither of the first two checks applies to you.
No. There are very few exemptions to the ammunition background checks requirement limited to law enforcement personnel and firearm-related businesses.
$1 for those with a current Certificate of Eligibility or at least one firearm registered with current CA Drivers License or ID.
$19 for a full-scale background check.
$5 + DROS fee for Private Party Ammo Transfers.
$19 for a full-scale background check.
$5 + DROS fee for Private Party Ammo Transfers.
COE and AFS checks are typically quick (2-3 minutes), but Basic Eligibility Checks may have a waiting period of up to 30 days for processing.