California’s gun laws are some of the strictest in the country. Consequently, state law is very particular regarding how to legally transport your firearm in your car. First, you must be over the age of 18 and not legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. For example, if you’ve been convicted of a felony or disqualifying misdemeanor, you cannot possess a firearm in any capacity. Second, assuming the firearm is a handgun, the firearm must be unloaded and locked in the vehicle’s trunk or in a locked container. Note that the glove compartment or utility container inside your car does not qualify as a locked container.
In addition, whenever the handgun is taken outside the vehicle, it must be carried directly to or from the car for a lawful purpose and contained inside a locked container. Under the law, a locked container is defined as a secure, fully enclosed container that is locked by a key lock, padlock, combination lock, or other similar locking device.
Should you have any questions regarding possession of a handgun, rifle, shotgun, or assault weapon, call CBS Law and we’ll be happy to discuss your situation at no cost to you.