What's Required for my Son to Gift me a Handgun

[GunDog]

I have a son who lives in an adjoining state. He has a pistol that he wants to give me. Understand that he must ship to an FFL here in California who will then process transaction for me. I've heard that because the pistol is not on "the list," it is advisable that a letter of some type accompany the transaction identifying it as a gift from son-to-father. Supposedly this letter acts as proof of exemption from "the list" and supports the FFL's transfer of the pistol to me. Does anyone have a sample of such a letter?

[JeremyS]

I would ask your FFL, as they often have specific things they want to see and some will ONLY accept shipments from another FFL, while some are happy to accept shipments sent directly from an individual (which is perfectly legal).

Either way, I'd have him write something saying that he is your son / you are his father and that the gun is a present/gift and no money exchanged hands, then just sign and date. He should definitely include a copy of his ID/driver's license. That's really it. It's up to your FFL to do the paperwork to DROS it as an intrafamiliar transfer.

While these things are not necessarily required, it will simplify the process and eliminate questions, etc. But... your FFL will tell you what they want to see.

[GunDog]

Thanks Jeremy. Makes sense that I talk to my local FFL and find out what he requires. Afterall, he's the one that will be subject to any BATF and/or CA DOJ auditing.