To purchase ammunition in California, you must complete a background check with an Approved status. DOJ offers two background checks. One is instant and costs $1, the other does not have a set time and costs $19.

The instant check confirms only that your name and address match a registered firearm in California.

The longer check is a full background check and does not require you to have a registered firearm, or for your current address to match a registered firearm.  This check can take anywhere from a half hour to a month to complete.

You must provide a copy of your CA ID or DL upon submission of the background check.  If your ID states “Federal Limits Apply”, you will also be required to show either a birth certificate, naturalization document, or a current US passport. 

If you already have a firearm registered in California, however your name or address has changed since purchase, you may update your information directly with DOJ through their CFARS system.

Once logged into your account, click the “Automated Firearms System (AFS) Personal Information Update” in the top left corner, and submit your new information.