How to transport a firearm, handgun, pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun, or long gun in California

As of 2012, California has no open-carry law. It is illegal to carry a firearm, openly or concealed, loaded or unloaded, in public in California without the proper licenses or permits.

For private security, this means having an exposed firearms permit issued by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS).

For qualified law enforcement, this means being authorized under HR 218.

For general citizens, this means having a permit to carry a "firearm capable of being concealed on the person" (CCW) issued by the local sheriff or police chief.

Transporting a Firearm in California

For those without a license or permit to carry a firearm in public, the California firearms laws are complicated and there is a lot of misinformation floating around. The list below is made available in an effort to help keep honest citizens out of trouble.

When transporting a firearm in California:

1. You must be legally entitled to posess a firearm.
2. The firearm is
   
   • locked in the trunk.
     Or,
   • in a locked container within the cabin (other than the glove box).
3. The firearm is unloaded.
4. The firearm is stored separately from any ammunition.
5. The firearm must be transported directly to and from the vehicle in a locked container.

Firearm Transportation for Private Security in California

The exposed firearms permit only applies while the security guard is on duty and in uniform.

A security guard may not carry concealed while on duty unless the guard holds BOTH a CCW and the BSIS exposed firearms permit.

Transporting Firearms in California
State of California Department of Justice