Minimum Age to Purchase Firearms in California

California has some of the strictest firearm laws in the United States, with age requirements that generally align with or exceed federal minimums. These laws are governed by the California Penal Code and enforced by the California Department of Justice (DOJ). Below, I’ll break down the key age restrictions for purchasing different types of firearms from licensed dealers (which is the only legal way to purchase firearms in the state—private sales must also go through a dealer). Note that all purchases require a background check, a 10-day waiting period, and proof of identity (e.g., a California driver’s license or ID).

Federal vs. California Law Overview

• Federal Law (Gun Control Act): Sets a baseline minimum age of 18 for purchasing long guns (rifles and shotguns) for them, and 21 for handguns. However, states like California can impose higher ages.
• California Law: Generally requires buyers to be at least 21 years old for many firearms, with limited exceptions for long guns (non-semiautomatic rifles and shotguns) for those 18–20. Semiautomatic centerfire rifles specifically require 21+. These rules apply to sales, loans, or transfers by licensed dealers.

Age Requirements by Firearm Type

Here’s a summary of the minimum ages for purchasing from a licensed dealer:

Firearm Type	Minimum Age	Key Details and Exceptions
Handguns (pistols, revolvers)	21	No exceptions for 18–20 year olds. Federal law also sets this at 21. Minors under 18 cannot possess handguns except under parental supervision for specific activities (e.g., hunting with consent).
Semiautomatic Centerfire Rifles (e.g., AR-15 style)	21	Effective January 1, 2020, this applies to both the firearm and its lower receiver. No purchase allowed for 18–20 year olds, even with exemptions.
Non-Semiautomatic Long Guns (rifles and shotguns, excluding semiauto centerfire)	18	Allowed for 18–20 year olds if they present a valid California hunting license. Otherwise, 21+ is required. This aligns with federal law but includes the hunting exemption.
Ammunition	18 for rifle/shotgun ammo; 21 for handgun ammo	Must pass a background check for ammo purchases separate from firearms (since 2019). Non-citizens need additional documentation.