Most of our customers can have ammunition shipped to their door. California is different. Here is how buying ammunition works if you live here. Outside California? See Shipping.
This page is a general guide, not legal advice. Laws change often, and some are being decided in court right now. Last reviewed October 24, 2026.
Eligibility check
California requires an eligibility check, processed by a licensed ammunition vendor, before every ammunition purchase. The check is usually quick if your information matches DOJ records. The standard check fee is $5 (since July 1, 2025).
Buying online
Ammunition ordered online for delivery in California ships to a licensed ammunition vendor rather than to your home. You complete the eligibility check when you pick it up.
What to bring
- A valid California driver license or ID card
- If your ID is marked “Federal Limits Apply,” bring proof of lawful presence, such as a U.S. passport or certified birth certificate
Buying a firearm at the same time
If you are buying a firearm, you may be able to purchase ammunition in the same transaction and pick it up when your firearm is released. Ask the dealer handling your DROS.
Taxes
California adds an 11% excise tax on ammunition sold at retail, plus sales tax.
The rules are in court
The ammunition background check is being challenged in Rhode v. Bonta. A Ninth Circuit panel ruled against it in July 2025, but the full court agreed to rehear the case and heard arguments in March 2026. Until the court rules, the background check remains in effect. We will update this page when the rules change.
