Handgun Safety Law Takes Effect
People buying handguns in California now have to take a course, look at a video or take a test.
The new law, which went into effect Friday, is called the Basic Firearms Safety Certificate program. It was approved by the Legislature and signed by Gov. Pete Wilson last year.
The law requires handgun buyers to either pass a written firearms safety test at the gun store, watch a two-hour instructional video or complete a state-certified firearms safety course.
The law exempts active or retired police officers, current or former military personnel, and licensed hunters who have had formal firearms training. It applies only to handguns.
The certificate costs $10, and dealers can charge another $10 to administer the test, which is based on a firearms safety workbook.
More to Read
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
