Intrafamilial Transfer Instructions
In California, an eligible intrafamilial firearm transfer (typically parent ↔ child or grandparent ↔ grandchild) can be reported online through the California Department of Justice's CFARS system instead of going through a dealer, provided the legal requirements are met. The recipient generally must be at least 18, possess a valid Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) or exemption, be legally allowed to possess firearms, and submit the report within 30 days of receiving the firearm.
Step 1: Confirm the transfer qualifies
The California DOJ defines "immediate family member" for this exemption as:
Parent and child
Grandparent and grandchild
Brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc., do not qualify for the intrafamilial exemption.
Step 2: Gather what you'll need
Before starting, have:
California Driver License or ID
Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) number (or exemption information)
Firearm information:
Make
Model
Serial number
Firearm type
Date acquired
Residential address
Payment method for the DOJ reporting fee (currently $19 per transaction).
Step 3: Create or log into CFARS
Go to:
https://cfars.doj.ca.gov/login
Create an account or continue as a guest. Having an account makes it easier to track submissions.
Step 4: Start the correct report
After logging in:
Open the reporting section.
Select "Report of Intra-Familial Firearm Transaction."
Enter your personal information.
Enter the family member's information.
Enter the firearm details exactly as marked on the firearm.
Upload any requested documents.
Step 5: Pay and submit
Review the information carefully.
Pay the reporting fee.
Save or print the confirmation page and any receipt for your records.
Special situations
Spouse-to-spouse transfers are Operation of Law, not through the intrafamilial transfer option in CFARS.
Inherited firearms fall under Operation of Law depending on the circumstances.
Interstate transfers (for example, a parent in another state giving a firearm to a California resident) involve federal law and must go through a California FFL dealer. The online intrafamilial report alone is not sufficient.