These are two different DOJ statuses. A DROS can be “delayed” while DOJ researches a record that matches your descriptors; it’s commonly a records match being run down, not a denial. If 30 days pass from the transaction date and DOJ still can’t determine eligibility, it notifies the dealer that the result is “undetermined,” and DOJ says it is then at the dealer’s sole discretion whether to release the firearm. Neither status is an approval, and a dealer is not required to release.
Sources
- The full detail: How a DROS resolves
- CA DOJ: DROS status information (retrieved 2026-10-04)
More answers
- How long do I have to wait before I can take it home?
- Can I buy ammo online and have it shipped to my house?
- Do I get checked every single time I buy a box of ammo?
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