How to Register Inherited Firearms in California: A Step-by-Step Guide
Inheriting a firearm can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure what the legal requirements are. In California, there are specific steps you need to take in order to register an inherited firearm.
This article will provide you with a brief overview of the process, including the required paperwork and fees. We’ll also discuss some of the common mistakes that people make when registering inherited firearms, so you can avoid them.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how to register an inherited firearm in California. So if you’re in the process of inheriting a firearm, or you’re thinking about inheriting one in the future, be sure to read on.
| Step | Instructions | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Determine if the firearm is a curio or relic. | ATF Curios and Relics |
| 2 | If the firearm is a curio or relic, you do not need to register it. | |
| 3 | If the firearm is not a curio or relic, you must register it with the California Department of Justice. | California Department of Justice – Firearms Registration |
| 4 | Complete the California Firearms Safety Certificate (FSC) application. | California Firearms Safety Certificate (FSC) Application |
| 5 | Submit the completed FSC application and a copy of the firearm’s serial number to the California Department of Justice. | California Department of Justice – Firearms Registration |
| 6 | The California Department of Justice will issue you a Certificate of Registration for the firearm. |
What is the process for registering an inherited firearm in California?
The process for registering an inherited firearm in California is as follows:
1. Contact the California Department of Justice (DOJ). The DOJ is responsible for administering the state’s firearms laws. You can contact the DOJ by phone at (916) 227-8954 or by visiting their website at https://oag.ca.gov/firearms.
2. Provide the DOJ with the required information. The DOJ will need the following information to register an inherited firearm:
- The make, model, and serial number of the firearm
- The date of the inheritance
- The name of the deceased person who owned the firearm
- Your name and address
- Your California driver’s license or other government-issued identification number
- A copy of the death certificate for the deceased person
- A copy of the will or other document that shows that you inherited the firearm
3. Pay the registration fee. The registration fee for an inherited firearm is $25.
4. Receive your registration certificate. Once the DOJ has processed your application, you will receive a registration certificate for the firearm.
What are the required documents?
The following documents are required to register an inherited firearm in California:
- The make, model, and serial number of the firearm
- The date of the inheritance
- The name of the deceased person who owned the firearm
- Your name and address
- Your California driver’s license or other government-issued identification number
- A copy of the death certificate for the deceased person
- A copy of the will or other document that shows that you inherited the firearm
Registering an inherited firearm in California is a simple process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your firearm is legally registered and that you are in compliance with the state’s firearms laws.
For more information on registering an inherited firearm in California, please visit the California Department of Justice website at https://oag.ca.gov/firearms.
3. What are the fees?
The fees for registering an inherited firearm in California are as follows:
- $19.00 for the application fee.
- $1.00 for each fingerprint card.
- $25.00 for the DROS fee.
The total cost of registering an inherited firearm in California is $45.00.
4. What are the penalties for failing to register an inherited firearm?
The penalties for failing to register an inherited firearm in California include:
- A fine of up to $1,000.
- Up to six months in jail.
- Loss of the firearm.
In addition, the California Department of Justice may seize and destroy any firearm that is not registered in accordance with the law.
Registering an inherited firearm in California is a simple process that can be completed in just a few minutes. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your firearm is legally registered and that you are in compliance with the law.
If you have any questions about registering an inherited firearm, please do not hesitate to contact the California Department of Justice.
How do I register an inherited firearm in California?
To register an inherited firearm in California, you must:
1. Complete a California Form 4473. This form is used to register all firearms in the state of California. You can find a copy of the form online or at your local gun store.
2. Provide proof of ownership. This can include a bill of sale, a gift letter from the deceased, or a court order.
3. Pay the registration fee. The registration fee for a long gun is $25 and the registration fee for a handgun is $35.
4. Submit the completed form to the California Department of Justice. You can submit the form online or by mail.
What are the requirements for inheriting a firearm in California?
To inherit a firearm in California, you must:
1. Be a California resident.
2. Be at least 18 years old.
3. Not be prohibited from possessing a firearm. This includes people who have been convicted of a felony, domestic violence, or a drug-related offense.
4. Complete a California Form 4473.
5. Provide proof of ownership. This can include a bill of sale, a gift letter from the deceased, or a court order.
6. Pay the registration fee. The registration fee for a long gun is $25 and the registration fee for a handgun is $35.
7. Submit the completed form to the California Department of Justice. You can submit the form online or by mail.
What if I inherit a firearm from someone who is not a California resident?
If you inherit a firearm from someone who is not a California resident, you must:
1. Have the firearm shipped to a California gun dealer. The gun dealer will complete a California Form 4473 and transfer the firearm to you.
2. Pay the registration fee. The registration fee for a long gun is $25 and the registration fee for a handgun is $35.
3. Submit the completed form to the California Department of Justice. You can submit the form online or by mail.
What if I inherit a firearm that is not registered in California?
If you inherit a firearm that is not registered in California, you must:
1. Have the firearm registered. You can register the firearm by completing a California Form 4473 and submitting it to the California Department of Justice.
2. Pay the registration fee. The registration fee for a long gun is $25 and the registration fee for a handgun is $35.
3. Submit the completed form to the California Department of Justice. You can submit the form online or by mail.
What if I am not sure if I need to register an inherited firearm?
If you are not sure if you need to register an inherited firearm, you can contact the California Department of Justice for more information. You can reach the California Department of Justice by phone at 1-800-225-8777 or online at https://oag.ca.gov/firearms.
inheriting a firearm can be a complicated process, but it is important to follow the proper steps to ensure that the firearm is registered properly and legally. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you are in compliance with California law and that you are able to enjoy your inherited firearm safely.
Here are some key takeaways:
- Inherited firearms must be registered with the California Department of Justice within 60 days of the date of inheritance.
- The registration process requires the submission of a completed Firearms Transaction Record (Form BOF 4010A) and a copy of the decedent’s death certificate.
- If the firearm is a handgun, it must also be transferred to a California-approved firearms dealer.
- The transfer fee is $25 for long guns and $35 for handguns.
- The registration process can be completed online or by mail.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you are in compliance with California law and that you are able to enjoy your inherited firearm safely.