California FSC Requirements 2026–2029: What's Changing Under the New 4-Hour Firearm Training Law?
California's new FSC law will require four hours of firearm safety training, including live-fire exercises, starting in 2029. Here's what gun buyers need to know about the current rules, upcoming changes, and how to prepare.
By Chao Ma | Legacy Firearms Academy
Updated: October 27, 2026
California has enacted significant changes to its Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) program through Senate Bill 948 (SB 948), signed into law on September 26, 2026.
Beginning January 1, 2029, most individuals applying for an FSC will need to complete at least four hours of qualifying firearm safety training, including live-fire exercises, within the preceding 12 months.
This represents a significant change from the current FSC process, which generally requires passing a written examination without mandatory hands-on training.
Important: The new four-hour training requirement is not yet in effect. Existing FSC requirements remain applicable in 2026.
1. California FSC Requirements: 2026 vs. 2029
Here's how the current requirements compare with the upcoming changes under SB 948.
Requirement | Current Rules (2026) | New Rules (2029) |
FSC Written Examination | 30 questions | Still required |
Minimum Passing Score | 75% (23/30) | Still required |
Mandatory Training Before FSC | Not required | At least 4 hours |
Live-Fire Training | Not required for FSC | Required |
Training Completion Window | N/A | Within previous 12 months |
FSC Validity | 5 years | 5 years |
Implementation Date | Current | January 1, 2029 |
Key takeaway: Beginning in 2029, most new FSC applicants must complete qualifying training in addition to passing the existing written examination.
The law also creates specific exemptions from the new training requirement, including for qualifying CCW permit holders and individuals with recent CCW training.
2. What Must the New Four-Hour Training Cover?
Under California Penal Code § 31640.5, the training course must address several important aspects of firearm safety and California firearm laws.
The required subjects include:
Firearm ownership and safety: Responsibilities of ownership and fundamental firearm safety principles.
Safe storage: California's firearm storage laws and methods to prevent unauthorized access.
Firearm handling: Safe handling procedures and basic shooting fundamentals.
Firearm transfers: Private-party transfers, prohibited transfers, and straw purchases.
Firearm relinquishment: Legal responsibilities when an individual becomes prohibited from possessing firearms.
Self-defense and use of force: Applicable California laws, use-of-force guidelines, and conflict resolution.
Transportation and carrying: Laws concerning carrying, transporting, and securely storing firearms in vehicles.
Live-fire exercises: Demonstrating safe firearm handling and basic shooting proficiency at a firing range.
Does the law specify how many rounds must be fired?
No. The final version of SB 948 does not establish a specific minimum number of rounds or a time requirement for live-fire instruction.
However, live-fire exercises must take place at a firing range, and applicants must demonstrate safe firearm handling and basic shooting proficiency.
The course must also be taught and supervised by instructors who meet the applicable California DOJ certification requirements.
Additional DOJ regulations may establish further training and implementation standards. Legacy Firearms Academy will provide updates as new official requirements become available.
3. What Is Required to Purchase a Firearm in California Today?
As of October 2026, California firearm purchases generally remain subject to the existing requirements.
For a typical purchase through a California licensed firearms dealer, buyers should expect:
A valid FSC or proof of a qualifying exemption.
Acceptable identification and, for handgun purchases, additional proof of California residency.
Completion of the Dealer Record of Sale (DROS) process and applicable eligibility/background checks.
A mandatory 10-day waiting period.
A safe handling demonstration unless exempt.
Compliance with applicable firearm safety device requirements.
A DROS question asking whether the purchaser has checked and confirmed possession of all firearms currently owned or possessed within the preceding 30 days.
The 30-day firearm possession verification question became effective March 1, 2025. Purchasers must answer the question accurately.
Important: In 2029 the four-hour training requirement under SB 948 does not replace the existing DROS, background check, waiting period, or other applicable firearm purchase requirements.
4. Moving to California With Firearms: New Requirements Beginning in 2028
SB 948 also changes the rules for certain individuals moving into California with firearms.
What changes?
California's previous personal firearm importer reporting period was generally 60 days. SB 948 extends the statutory reporting or disposition period to 180 days.
Beginning January 1, 2028, a personal firearm importer who reports firearms under Penal Code § 27560 must also certify, under penalty of perjury, that they possess a valid FSC or qualify for an applicable exemption.
The report must include the FSC number or specify the qualifying exemption. The California DOJ may require additional supporting documentation.
What does this mean for new California residents?
Individuals who meet the legal definition of a personal firearm importer should review the state's reporting, eligibility, and firearm compliance requirements before relocating.
The law provides various reporting and disposition options and statutory exceptions. The 180-day deadline should not be interpreted as permission to bring firearms that are otherwise prohibited under California law.
5. Frequently Asked Questions About SB 948
Do I need to take four hours of training to get an FSC in 2026?
No. The new training requirement begins January 1, 2029. Under current rules, an eligible applicant may obtain an FSC by passing the required written examination administered by a DOJ Certified Instructor.
Will my existing FSC become invalid in 2029?
SB 948 does not establish a blanket cancellation of previously issued, unexpired FSCs. Under current law, an FSC remains valid for five years from its issuance date.
Does having a CCW permit exempt me from the new training requirement?
Yes, under specified conditions.
Penal Code § 31640.5(b) exempts individuals with valid CCW permits, as well as individuals who completed qualifying initial or renewal CCW training under Penal Code § 26165 within the previous three years, from the new four-hour training requirement.
This exemption concerns the new training requirement and should not be confused with the separate statutory FSC exemptions.
Can I complete the new four-hour training online?
The new law requires live-fire shooting exercises at a firing range. Therefore, an entirely online course would not satisfy the statutory training requirements.
The California DOJ may establish additional implementation standards.
How many rounds will I need to fire during training?
The final legislation does not specify a minimum round count. Applicants must, however, demonstrate safe firearm handling and basic shooting proficiency during the live-fire component.
6. How Should California Firearm Buyers Prepare?
Although the new training requirement does not begin until 2029, prospective firearm owners can benefit from developing safe handling habits and a solid understanding of California firearm laws today.
Legacy Firearms Academy recommends:
Study firearm safety fundamentals: Become familiar with safe handling, storage, and transportation practices.
Review California firearm laws: Understand your responsibilities before purchasing or possessing firearms.
Develop basic shooting proficiency: Supervised instruction can help new shooters build confidence and safe habits.
Keep track of your FSC expiration date: An FSC is generally valid for five years.
Follow official DOJ updates: Additional implementation details may become available before 2029.
Legacy Firearms Academy Will Continue Monitoring These Changes
At Legacy Firearms Academy, our goal is to help firearm owners develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary for safe and responsible firearm ownership.
We will continue monitoring California DOJ announcements and provide updates as additional information becomes available regarding the new FSC training requirements, instructor qualifications, and implementation procedures.
In the meantime, individuals interested in improving their firearm safety knowledge and practical shooting skills may explore our available training programs.
References & Official Sources
1. California Senate Bill 948 (2026) — Firearms: Safety Certificates
California Legislature, Senate Bill No. 948, Chapter 465, Statutes of 2026. Approved by the Governor and filed with the Secretary of State on September 26, 2026.
2. LegiScan — California SB 948 Legislative Text
LegiScan. (2026). California Senate Bill 948: Firearms: Safety Certificates. Chaptered version.
3. CalMatters Digital Democracy — SB 948
CalMatters Digital Democracy. (2026). SB 948: Firearms: Safety Certificates. Legislative history and bill information.
Disclaimer: This article is provided by Legacy Firearms Academy for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Firearm laws and regulations are subject to change. Readers should consult the California Department of Justice and official legislative sources for the most current requirements.
Last reviewed: October 27, 2026.