Understanding California’s Ammo Background Check law is very important for gun owners and retailers in the state. This law has required everyone buying ammunition to pass a background check, aimed at keeping ammo out of the hands of those who shouldn’t have it.

This article will explain what this law entails and discuss its issues. We’ll also answer common questions to help you stay informed and compliant with federal limits and regulations. Let’s get started.

What Is The California Ammo Background Check?

The California Ammo Background Check law requires people buying ammunition to undergo a background check. This is to stop those who aren’t allowed to have guns from getting ammo.

The system checks your background to ensure you can have it. This circuit court part of the appeals system checks your eligibility based on the California Department of Justice records. There’s a lot of disagreement about this law, with some people saying it goes against the Second Amendment and makes it harder for law-abiding citizens to buy ammo.

For example:

Proposition 63, which voters passed in 2016, first said gun owners had to pay a fee and do a background check for a 4-year permit to buy ammo. Even though there have been fights in circuit court of appeals about it, the law is still active. That means you have to buy ammo from a licensed California seller for your gun.

Problems Related To The Law

The California Ammo Background Check law aims to make things safer, but it’s run into big problems. Many people trying to buy ammo have faced long waits and mistakes in the computer system.

These glitches not only slow down purchases but also make folks frustrated about following the law. Plus, the checks cost money and are a hassle. For example, the “instant” full background check system needs the California Department of Justice to have accurate records of the buyer’s past gun buys.

But if those records are wrong, it can mean delays or even denial. Lawsuits have shown how these checks can stop the right people from getting ammo, sparking debates about whether the law works well or is fair.

These issues aren’t just annoying inconveniences for people who follow the rules, especially those who often buy ammo. They show big problems with how the law is being put into practice.

California Ammo Background Check Requirements

Here’s a detailed look at what you need to know.

Background Check Requirements

In California, whenever you want to buy ammunition, you need to go through a background check. Here’s how it works:

Standard Ammunition Eligibility Check: If you’ve passed a background check for buying firearms before, this is for you. The DOJ uses the Automated Firearm System to see if you’re allowed to also buy ammunition and ammo.
Basic Ammunition Eligibility Check: If you haven’t had a background check recently, you’ll need a more detailed review. They look through different databases to make sure you’re not banned from buying ammo. This takes longer than the standard check and is a bit more complicated.
One-Time Eligibility Check: This is for people who only buy ammunition or ammo occasionally. It’s a thorough check, similar to the basic one, but it’s meant for just one purchase.

These checks are designed to ensure that only eligible individuals can purchase ammunition, aiming to enhance public safety.

Identification Requirements

To pass the background check, you must present a passport card and valid identification. Here’s what you need to know:

Acceptable Forms of ID: The most commonly used form is a California driver’s license or identification card. Your ID must be up-to-date and show your current address. It must also comply with federal REAL ID requirements, which include having a star in the upper right corner.
Military ID: If you’re in the military, a military identification card along with permanent duty station orders proving you’re stationed in California will suffice.
Out-of-State Residents: Generally, non-California residents cannot purchase ammunition in California. However, certain exemptions apply to those with specific licenses or orders.
Expired IDs: An expired ID will not be accepted. Ensure your identification is valid and current before attempting to purchase ammunition.

These identification requirements help streamline the process of purchasing ammunition guns, and ensure that the person buying ammunition is correctly vetted.

Ammo Background Check Options

When you’re buying ammunition in California, there are a few types of background checks you might encounter. These checks are meant to make sure only the right people can buy ammo, but they have different steps and rules.

Standard Ammunition Eligibility Check

If you’ve already passed a background check to buy firearms, you might be eligible for this quick and straightforward check. If the California Department of Justice (DOJ) has a recent record of your background check, they’ll use the Automated Firearm System to confirm your eligibility. It’s a convenient option if you have a clean criminal record.

Basic Ammunition Eligibility Check

If you haven’t had a recent background check on file, you’ll have to do the Basic Ammunition Eligibility Check. This means they’ll look more closely at different databases to make sure you’re not banned from buying ammo. It takes longer than the standard check, but it’s important to make sure all the right records are checked carefully.

One-Time Eligibility Check

If you’re not going to buy ammo often, you can do the One-Time Eligibility Check. It’s like the Basic Ammunition Eligibility Check but just for one purchase. It’s handy if you only buy ammo once in a while and don’t want to go through checks every time like regular ammunition buyers would do.

These various background checks and check options help ensure that ammunition sales are conducted safely and legally, keeping the process secure and efficient for all parties involved.

How It Works For Travel In And Out Of California

Traveling with ammunition in and out of California has its own set of rules that you need to follow. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant.

Bringing Ammunition Into California

If you’re bringing ammunition into California, be aware that you must comply with the state’s strict regulations. Any ammo you bring into the state must be transported to a licensed California ammunition vendor. Once there, you’ll need to go through the standard background check process before you can take possession of the ammo. This step ensures that all ammunition entering the state is monitored and sold legally.

Taking Ammunition Out of California

When you’re leaving California with ammo, the rules are usually not as strict. But it’s still important to know the laws in the state you’re going to. They might have their own rules about ammo. Make sure you know and follow these local laws to avoid any legal problems.

Buying Ammo While Traveling

If you’re from California and you buy ammo while you’re out of state, remember you can’t bring it back to California without following the rules. You have to take it to a licensed vendor like you would if you were bringing it into California for the first time. Always make sure you do the background checks and follow California’s laws to avoid getting in trouble.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Is Authorized To Conduct Ammunition Purchases And Transfers?

In California, only licensed ammo vendors can handle buying and transferring ammo. So, whether you’re buying it or giving it to someone else, you have to use these authorized vendors to make sure everything is legal and done the right way.

When Do You Go Through An Eligibility Check To Purchase Ammunition?

Every time you buy ammo in California, you have to do an eligibility check. It’s required every time you make a purchase, whether it’s for a pistol or any other gun. The aim is to make sure you’re allowed by law to buy a new gun and have ammo.

What Is The Difference Between A Standard Ammunition Eligibility Check And Basic Ammunition Eligibility Check?

The Standard Ammunition Eligibility Check is quicker and is used if you have a recent background check on file for firearm purchases. The Basic Ammunition Eligibility Check, on the other hand, is more comprehensive and takes longer, as it’s intended for those without a recent background check record.

Both are conducted through the California Department of Justice’s automated firearms system.

What Are The Fees Associated With Each Of The Ammunition Eligibility Checks?

The fees for ammunition eligibility checks vary. The Standard Ammunition Eligibility Check typically costs less, while the Basic Ammunition Eligibility Check is more expensive due to its comprehensive nature. Specific fee amounts can be confirmed with your licensed ammunition vendor.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Determination For Each Type Of Eligibility Check?

For the Standard Ammunition Eligibility Check, the determination is usually quick, often instant if there are no issues. The Basic Ammunition Eligibility Check can take longer, sometimes several days, because it involves a more detailed review of your background.

Can I Give Ammo To My Friend In California?

Yes, you can transfer ammunition to a friend in California, but it must be done through a licensed ammunition vendor. This ensures that the transfer is legal and that the recipient undergoes the necessary background check. Always follow the legal process to avoid any issues.

How Much Ammo Can I Legally Own In California?

California law doesn’t set a limit on how much ammo you can have. Whether you’re getting a long gun ready for a big shooting event or just want to have enough on hand, you can buy as much ammunition as you need. You can buy any gauge or caliber of ammo or ammunition you want. But always make sure you buy it from a licensed ammo vendor to follow the state’s rules.

Conclusion

The California Ammo Background Check law makes it mandatory for anyone buying ammo to pass a background check. This is to prevent ammo from getting into the hands of the wrong people. Despite the legal debates and problems with how it works, this law is meant to make things safer by controlling how ammo is sold through a system run by the California Department of Justice.

Knowing about the different types of background checks, what ID you need, and the rules for traveling with ammo is crucial for following the law. Understanding these regulations helps you stay on the right side of the law.

What To Know About California Ammo Background Check