What is a Private Party Transfer?
A Private Party Transfer (PPT) is the process of legally transferring ownership of a firearm between two private individuals in California. Instead of selling directly to each other, both the seller and the buyer go through a licensed firearms dealer (an FFL) who facilitates the transfer.
The dealer acts as the middle party: they run the required paperwork and background check, hold the firearm during the waiting period, and release it to the recipient once everything clears. Many dealers charge a flat fee for this service in addition to the state fees.
Not every dealer offers private party transfers, and policies such as appointment requirements and walk-in availability vary by shop. Use the directory to find dealers that list PPT among their services.
The transfer, step by step
Every private party transfer runs through a licensed dealer the same way, with narrow statutory exceptions (for example, certain antiques and curio-and-relic long guns; Pen. Code §§ 27850–27966).
- 01
Agree on the firearm and price privately
A Private Party Transfer moves a firearm between two private individuals through a licensed dealer. You and the other party settle which firearm and what price between yourselves before you go. The dealer facilitates the transfer, not the sale terms. - 02
Both parties go to a PPT-friendly FFL
in personNot every dealer offers private party transfers, and policies such as appointment requirements and walk-in availability vary by shop. Use the directory to find a dealer that lists PPT among their services; both buyer and seller go together with the firearm.Find a PPT-friendly dealer - 03
Dealer submits the DROS and collects fees
$37.19 + ≤ $10The dealer submits the Dealer's Record of Sale (DROS) to the state for both parties. A state DROS fees (currently $37.19 in total) typically apply, plus the dealer's own transfer fee, capped at $10 for an in-person private party transfer. - 04
Recipient clears FSC, ID, and eligibility
A valid Firearm Safety Certificate is generally required for the recipient; some narrow exemptions exist, and many dealers can administer the FSC test on site. Both parties usually need valid California ID and proof of residency, and the recipient must pass a background check and meet eligibility requirements. - 05
Clear the 10-day wait, then pick up
10 daysCalifornia generally requires a 10-day waiting period before the firearm can be released, regardless of whether the sale is private or from a dealer's inventory. The dealer holds the firearm during the wait; when it clears, the recipient returns and takes possession.
What it costs
General information to help you prepare, requirements and fees can change, so confirm the details with your chosen dealer ahead of time. The firearm price is separate and agreed between the two parties.
- State fees (DROS)
- $37.19
- Dealer PPT fee
- $10.00
- Firearm Safety Certificate
- $25.00
Prepare for your visit
Prepare For Your Transfer
A general checklist to help you get ready. Requirements vary. Always confirm with your dealer.
What to ask the dealer
- The transfer fee, plus the California state fees at the DROS, $37.19 in total.
- Their Private Party Transfer (PPT) fee, if you are transferring between two private parties.
- Whether they take appointments or walk-ins, and their availability.
- The sales or use tax rate they collect. The statewide base is 7.25%, and local district taxes push it higher.
- Their business hours and when to start the paperwork.
- Whether they handle off-roster PPTs and consignment, if relevant to you.
What to bring
- A valid California ID or driver license showing your current address (proof of residency).
- Your Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC), or documentation for a valid exemption.
- A second document (such as a utility bill or vehicle registration) if your ID address needs to be confirmed.
- For a PPT, the firearm unloaded and cased per California transport rules.
Common questions
Do I have to use a dealer to sell a gun to another private person in California?
Yes. Selling or buying a firearm from another private individual in California is handled through a licensed dealer. Instead of transferring directly to each other, both the seller and the buyer go through an FFL who runs the paperwork and background check, holds the firearm during the waiting period, and releases it once everything clears.
What does a Private Party Transfer cost?
State DROS fees (currently $37.19 in total) typically apply, plus the dealer's transfer fee, capped at $10 for an in-person PPT. A one-time Firearm Safety Certificate ($25) applies if the recipient doesn't already hold one. The firearm price itself is separate and agreed between the two parties.
Is there a waiting period on a private party transfer?
Yes, California generally requires a 10-day waiting period before the firearm can be released, regardless of whether the sale is private or from a dealer's inventory.
Do I need a Firearm Safety Certificate?
A valid Firearm Safety Certificate is generally required for the recipient. Some narrow exemptions exist, and many dealers can administer the FSC test on site.
What do both parties need to bring?
Both parties usually need valid California ID and proof of residency, and the recipient must pass a background check and meet eligibility requirements before the firearm is released. Requirements and fees can change, confirm the details with your chosen dealer ahead of time.
Get the weekly Roster and Law brief
One email a week on California roster changes, new laws and court rulings. Alerts when something changes.