California doesn't recognize any out-of-state CCW permit, and no other state has to recognize California's. On Oct. 5, 2026 the Supreme Court declined to hear a challenge to that rule, so nothing changes today: carrying while traveling still means meeting each state's own permit requirements.
Gun buyers in California must hold a firearm safety certificate. SB 948 (Ch. 465, 2026) requires new applicants to pass a 4-hour class by Jan 1, 2029, and gives out-of-state owners a 180-day window by Jan 1, 2028. Concealed-carry holders and recent CC trainees are exempt.
The DOJ sued Minnesota over its 30–60 day gun-waiting period and a federal judge struck it as a Second Amendment violation. It does not change California law, but it is the fight most likely to affect California’s own up-to-30-day handgun delay. No new California exemption yet.
The 9th Circuit flipped the burden for 'shall-issue' permit rules. Previously the government had to prove a rule fit the nation's tradition; now a user must show the rule is being abused to block access. It's a Hawaii ruling, so it changes nothing in California today.
Fifth Circuit struck the 34-year ban on direct interstate handgun sales as a Second Amendment violation. CA buyers who used out-of-state FFL transfers lose the legal barrier. ATF guidance still describes the old transfer route; CA Roster and purchase limits stand.
DOJ challenges Minnesota’s purchase-permit waits, alleging delays of nearly 60 days for some city applicants. The lawsuit does not change California’s 10-day waiting period.
People barred under federal firearms law will have a new way to seek relief. DOJ opens its first public phase to 5,000 applicants on Nov. 4, 2026; a $30 fee begins Jan. 4, 2027. Approval is not automatic and does not remove California prohibitions.
San Jose charges the most in the nation for a concealed-carry permit, nearly $1,600. On September 16, 2026 the Justice Department sued the city and its police department, arguing the fee is so high it denies ordinary Californians their Second Amendment right to carry.
Federal law bars licensed dealers from selling handguns to 18-to-20-year-olds, but the DOJ has now concluded that ban is unconstitutional and will not be enforced. It is a federal opinion, not a court ruling, and does not override California's 21-year-old rule.
AB 1753 and SB 948 are enrolled and waiting on the Governor. AB 1753 would add ammunition to firearm surrender under restraining orders. SB 948 extends the import reporting window for handguns to 180 days and adds a training requirement to the firearm safety certificate. Neither is law yet.
