4-hour class now required of new gun owners in California

The Mercury News on Sep 29, 2026

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A four-hour class with range shooting will be required of new California gun owners under a law signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

The stricter rules for a firearm safety certificate will apply to gun owners moving to California starting in 2028 and to Californians buying new guns starting in 2029.

Previously the certificate required only a written test.

Senate Bill 948, by Jesse Arreguín, D-Berkeley, initially specified an eight-hour class; that was cut in half as it made its way through the Legislature. People moving to the state have a 180-day window to complete the certification.

Gun rights activists have generally opposed the new law, with the California Rifle and Pistol Association deeming it an effort to make legal ownership more expensive and burdensome. Basic half-day courses with shooting start around $100.

The safety certificate is required to own a gun; a concealed carry permit requires further steps, including 16 hours of training.

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