January 23, 2026

California Ammo Background Check: What You Need to Know

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When buying ammo for one of your weapons in California, you’ll need to go through some type of background check process. This background check considers a lot of information before allowing you to buy ammo, so it’s important to know how to prepare.

Well, the good news is that you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we take you through everything you need to know about a California ammo background check.

Do You Need to Pass a California Ammo Background Check to Purchase Ammo in California?

Yes, you need to pass a California ammo background check if you want to purchase ammo in the state. Laws were passed in 2019 that regulate the sale of ammunition, so a background check is required if you plan on buying it. The type of ammo may also influence the depth of the background check, and there may be some restrictions based on your criminal history.

What Does a California Ammo Background Check Entail?

A background check for ammo in California involves a handful of things. It all begins with a licensed ammo dealer running your ID through state and federal databases. Essentially, they’re looking to see if you show up in any databases for criminal records and other problems. If you do, you won’t be able to buy ammunition.

It’s also important to note that there is a small fee that you need to pay for the background check. It costs around five dollars, and you have to pay it before you purchase the ammunition. Overall, the process is straightforward, and you usually have to submit your ID and wait for approval at the counter.

What Are the Red Flags on a California Ammo Background Check?

When going through the California ammo background check process, there are some red flags you need to consider. You’ll find that the check will flag you if you have a history of:

Mental health issues that resulted in holds or a commitment to a facility.
Restraining orders/orders of protection against you.
Being wanted or having a warrant out for your arrest.
Being a registered sex offender.
Having a criminal record with violent crimes.

These are not all the red flags, but some of the most common ones that you will encounter.

How Long Does a California Ammo Background Check Take?

Unlike your average background check for employment, a California ammo background check is quick and easy. Once you submit your ID, the background check is usually done within a matter of minutes. This is because most systems just verify your identity across multiple databases; however, if there are red flags or any issues, it may take longer for the background check to finish.

How to Prepare for a California Ammo Background Check

If you have to go through a California ammo background check, it’s important to prepare before you do so. This way, you can bring up any issues you may have before you decide to go through the process. In some cases, this is enough to help you still get the ammunition.

That said, if you want to prepare for an ammo background check in California, the best thing you can do is use a simple online tool. Instead of bouncing around to different databases and county offices, you can view all available public records with Information.com’s background check tool.

Simply enter your information into the tool to begin your search. Then, determine if there is anything you need to fix or address in your public records.

Wrapping Up the California Ammo Background Check

At the end of the day, going through a California ammo background check is just something you have to do if you want to buy ammo in the state. While the laws that were passed in 2019 are challenged at the federal level often, for the foreseeable future, you need to pass a background check.

The good news is that you can always prepare with a simple and efficient tool like Information.com. We also recommend checking your presence online for any potential red flags.