California Gun Tax Calculator – Estimate Fees Instantly

Calculate the total taxes and fees for firearm purchases in California

Firearm Type

Purchase Price ($)

County

Additional Fees

DROS Fee ($37.19)

Firearm Safety Certificate ($25)

Additional Background Check ($25)

Safe Handling Demonstration ($25)

Tax Breakdown

Base Price: $0.00

State Sales Tax (7.25%): $0.00

County Tax: $0.00

DROS Fee: $0.00

FSC Fee: $0.00

Background Check Fee: $0.00

Safe Handling Fee: $0.00

Total Cost: $0.00

Understanding California Gun Taxes

California imposes various taxes and fees on firearm purchases. These include state sales tax (7.25%), additional county taxes (ranging from 0.10% to 1.75%), and mandatory fees such as the Dealer Record of Sale (DROS) fee and Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) fee.

The total tax burden can significantly impact the final cost of purchasing a firearm in California. Our calculator helps you estimate these costs before making your purchase.

Breakdown of California Gun Fees

DROS Fee ($37.19): The Dealer Record of Sale fee is required for all firearm transfers through a licensed dealer.
Firearm Safety Certificate ($25): Required to purchase or acquire a firearm in California. Valid for five years.
Background Check Fee ($25): May apply for certain transactions or additional verifications.
Safe Handling Demonstration ($25): Required for handgun purchases to demonstrate safe handling knowledge.
Sales Tax: State base rate of 7.25% plus additional county taxes ranging from 0.10% to 1.75%.

California County Tax Rates

California counties add their own tax rates on top of the state's 7.25% base sales tax. Here are some notable county tax rates:

County

Additional Tax

Total Tax Rate

Los Angeles

2.25%

9.50%

San Francisco

1.75%

9.00%

San Diego

0.50%

7.75%

Orange

0.50%

7.75%

Santa Clara

1.25%

8.50%

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any additional taxes for specific types of firearms?

California applies the same sales tax rate to all firearms. However, certain types of firearms may require additional registration fees or permits, particularly for assault weapons or other regulated firearms.

How often do the DROS and other fees change?

The California Department of Justice periodically adjusts fees based on inflation and administrative costs. The DROS fee was recently adjusted to $37.19. Always check with your dealer for the most current fees.

Do I need to pay the Firearm Safety Certificate fee for each purchase?

No, the FSC is valid for five years. Once you obtain an FSC, you can use it for multiple firearm purchases during that period without paying the fee again.

Are there any tax exemptions for firearm purchases in California?

Generally, there are no sales tax exemptions specifically for firearms in California. However, certain transfers between family members may be exempt from some fees, though DROS fees typically still apply.