Everything You Need To Know About Transporting Firearms In California

Eileen S

7 years ago

The state of California has clear rules for transporting firearms. Firearms must be transported safely and securely. All firearms are required to be stored within a dedicated locking case or locked away in the vehicle’s trunk. You can choose to store your firearms in either approved location, but all firearms must be completely unloaded during storage and transport. More details on transporting firearms in the state of California are provided below.

General Guidelines For Transporting Firearms In California

Firearms must be unloaded and locked in the vehicle’s trunk or in a locked container. Additionally, firearms must be carried to and from the vehicle. During transport, firearms are required to be stored in a locking case or locked in the trunk of the vehicle during the transport. The ammunition of the handgun, shotgun, rifle or assault weapon cannot be attached to the firearm in any way. A firearm is considered to be loaded when there is a live round of ammunition inside of or attached to the firearm in any way.

The locking case must be separate from the glove compartment or utility compartment. A locking case can be defined as a fully enclosed container that is securely locked by a key lock, a combination lock, a padlock or locking device similar to these such as an electronic locking system. If your vehicle does not have a trunk, you are required to purchase a locked container for the storage and transport of your firearm.

Guidelines For Transporting Handguns In California

California laws state that a United States citizen over 18 years old may transport any handgun. You must not be prohibited from carrying a firearm, and you must reside in the state of California. Handguns may be transported via motor vehicle.

Guidelines For Transporting Shotguns And Rifles In California

Shotguns and rifles are not required to be transported in a locked container. These firearms are still required to be unloaded during transport.

Guidelines For Transporting Registered Assault Weapons In California

Registered assault weapons may be transported between specified locations only. Additionally, these weapons must be stored in a locked container and completely unloaded during the storage and transport of the firearms.

Care and caution should always be taken when transporting firearms. The above guidelines are to ensure that everyone can travel with and transport their firearms legally and safely. Don’t underestimate the importance of a locked container. It’s the easiest way to protect yourself legally and physically.