CA-FSC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CA-FSC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Firearms that muzzleload can safely employ smokeless powder. → False
2. Obtaining a firearm legally requires having a valid FSC. → True
3. What fee does a licensed dealer charge a customer to administer the FSC test? → $25
4. What does the acronym DROS stand for in California firearm transactions? → Dealer Record of Sale
5. How long must a licensed California firearms dealer retain DROS records? → As long as licensed, with records transferred to DOJ upon business closure
6. California law prohibits the possession of which type of ammunition by most civilians? → Armor-piercing ammunition designed to penetrate body armor
7. Is it permissible to keep a loaded gun on the property where kids could potentially reach it? → FALSE
8. Which of the following is exempt from California's one-handgun-per-30-days purchase limit? → Receiving a handgun through a qualifying intrafamilial transfer
9. Which home security measure is also legally relevant because it demonstrates 'reasonable precautions' if your firearm is ever stolen? → Recording the firearm's serial number and storing it separately
10. In California, what is the waiting period after purchasing a firearm from a dealer before it can be transferred to you? → 10 days
11. What is the maximum magazine capacity generally permitted for firearms in California? → 10 rounds
12. What is the danger of keeping your finger inside the trigger guard while moving with a firearm? → It can cause an accidental discharge if you stumble, trip, or are startled
13. What does the safety rule 'know your target and what is beyond it' mean in practice? → Understand that a bullet can miss or pass through a target and still cause harm
14. A guest in your California home finds your loaded, unsecured handgun and accidentally shoots themselves. Who may face criminal liability? → You, the firearm owner, for unsafe storage
15. A loaded indicator on a semi-automatic pistol tells the user: → Whether a round is chambered
16. A person placed on a 14-day involuntary psychiatric hold (5250 certification) in California faces a firearm prohibition of: → 5 years, with the right to petition the court for early relief
17. Which of the following is classified as an 'assault weapon' under California law? → A semi-automatic centerfire rifle with a detachable magazine and a pistol grip
18. Who has ultimate authority over range safety rules at a public shooting range? → The designated range safety officer (RSO)
19. Which of the following qualifies as a 'locked container' for firearm transport in California? → A locked hard-sided gun case
20. Which of the following is NOT considered a lawful purpose for transporting a firearm in California? → Transporting it to show friends at a social gathering
21. California law requires gun owners to report a stolen or lost firearm to local law enforcement within how many days of discovering the loss? → 5 days
22. A neighbor walks through your unlocked back door uninvited but does not threaten you. Can you legally shoot them under the Castle Doctrine? → No, because the entry was not forcible
23. What should you do if you drop a firearm? → Check to ensure it is not damaged and check the chamber for a round
24. What happens when a prohibited person is found in possession of a firearm in California? → They can be charged with a felony carrying up to three years in state prison
25. What is the minimum passing score required on the FSC written test? → 75%
26. When is it safe to walk downrange to check or change your target? → Only after the range officer gives the all-clear command
27. Can a person with a mental health hold (5150) under California law possess firearms? → No, they are prohibited for five years from the date of the hold
28. A California resident purchases a long gun (rifle or shotgun) from a licensed dealer. Under FSC law, who is required to have a valid FSC? → Any purchaser or transferee of a firearm
29. A person subject to a domestic violence restraining order wants to buy a handgun in California. What happens? → They are prohibited from purchasing firearms
30. What is a 'squib load'? → An underpowered round that may lodge the bullet in the barrel