Question about HSC

[2L8]

Hey everyone! I'm new to calguns.net as well as a relatively new firearm owner and I had a quick question regarding CA gun laws. When I bought my handgun I was exempt from the required Handgun Safety Certificate due to the fact I was active duty military. I recently separated from active duty and will still be residing in CA for the next two years. Does that mean I now need to go get a HSC? Anything else I might need now that I didn't need before? Links to any info specifically explaining this would be great.

Thanks

[Brandon04GT]

According to: http://oag.ca.gov/firearms/hsc2

Honorably retired military is still exempt.

[tonyxcom]

You only need the HSC when you purchase a handgun.

Here are the HSC exemptions. Do you classify as "Military: Honorably Retired" ?

http://oag.ca.gov/firearms/hsc2

[pigpen66m]

According to: http://oag.ca.gov/firearms/hsc2

Honorably retired military is still exempt.

Still needs one if he got an Honorable Discharge. If he's new to guns I doubt if he's retired.

[JeremyS]

IF you need an HSC at all, it would only be to purchase another handgun. You may be exempt as stated above, but the bottom line is that it's super easy to get so you shouldn't really worry about it anyway if it comes to that. You would pass the test with flying colors, no question.

[2L8]

I don't believe I fall in the retired category, I was only in for 4 years (honorable discharge though). I just want to make sure I avoid all trouble, I know mistakes with firearms are taken very seriously.

[bdock]

You will only need it if you 'purchase' a new handgun in the time you will still be in CA.

And trust me you will pass.

[pigpen66m]

I don't believe I fall in the retired category, I was only in for 4 years (honorable discharge though). I just want to make sure I avoid all trouble, I know mistakes with firearms are taken very seriously.

I was in for 6 years. I fall into the same category. A few years back your DD214 was enough to be exempt but California figured they could make more money by making us get one.

[2L8]

Thanks guys!

[CK_32]

Its only required to purchase one not to own.

If your purchasing I think you'll need one unless Active/LEO. It's only $25 and basic knowledge. Just grab it. What can it hurt

[AAShooter]

You will only need it if you 'purchase' a new handgun in the time you will still be in CA.

And trust me you will pass.

As I recall, there are other situations that require an HSC besides a new purchase.

[tonyxcom]

Yeah but they all involve the acquisition of a new to you handgun, either through purchase, gift, PPT, and possibly inheritance.

[saudadeii]

The PC says "obtain".

[Brandon04GT]

Still needs one if he got an Honorable Discharge. If he's new to guns I doubt if he's retired.

Oops you're right...overlooked the retired/discharged difference.

[wmtrp]

if by chance you have a concealed carry permit you are exempt from the HSC