Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) test · California DOJ
Ownership and storage
Questions and answers
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Why should you know exactly how your firearm works?
You are more likely to recognize a possible safety problem
Being thoroughly familiar with the mechanics helps you notice when something is wrong.
Chapter 4 · Understand the Safety Aspects of Your Firearm ↗ -
What does the guide call the best way to become skilled in using your firearm?
Enrolling in a hands-on training course
A local firearms dealer or firearms safety organization can point you to courses in your area.
Chapter 4 · Enroll in a Firearm Training Course ↗ -
How often should the barrel of a firearm be cleaned?
After every use
Firearms are cleaned regularly and especially after long storage, and the barrel after every use.
Chapter 4 · Cleaning and Repair ↗ -
What must you always do before you begin cleaning a firearm?
Make sure it is unloaded and remove any ammunition from the cleaning area
Clean in a place without distractions, with the firearm unloaded and no ammunition nearby.
Chapter 4 · Cleaning and Repair ↗ -
Why should there be adequate ventilation when you clean a firearm?
To reduce the risk of inhaling lead particles
Lead particles can be inhaled. Some cleaning substances are also toxic, so follow their instructions.
Chapter 4 · Cleaning and Repair ↗ -
After exposure to lead, what should you do before handling food or drink?
Wash your hands
Washing hands first avoids swallowing lead particles. Do not smoke when exposed to lead.
Chapter 4 · Cleaning and Repair ↗ -
Who should repair a firearm?
Only a gunsmith or the manufacturer of the firearm
If an inspection shows a problem, have a competent gunsmith check the firearm.
Chapter 4 · Cleaning and Repair ↗ -
What does the guide say about making major modifications to your firearm?
Do not attempt them, some are illegal and dangerous
Modifications can be illegal and dangerous, and can void the manufacturer’s warranty.
Chapter 4 · Cleaning and Repair ↗ -
What must accompany every firearm sold in California?
A DOJ-approved firearms safety device, or proof the buyer owns a qualifying firearm safe
California requires an approved safety device, or proof of a safe that meets DOJ standards, with every sale.
Chapter 4 · Safety and Storage Devices ↗ -
Effective January 1, 2026, how must a firearm in a residence be kept when it is not being carried or kept in close proximity?
Securely stored with a DOJ-approved firearm safety device or a secure firearm safe
The rule applies whenever the firearm is not carried by a lawful authorized user or kept within close proximity.
Chapter 4 · Safety and Storage Devices ↗ -
What can a violation of the residential safe storage requirement lead to?
Fines or misdemeanor penalties
Failing to store a firearm securely at home can bring fines or misdemeanor penalties.
Chapter 4 · Safety and Storage Devices ↗ -
How does a trigger lock work?
Two pieces fit around the trigger and trigger guard to block access to the trigger
Trigger locks are usually two-piece devices locked by a key or a combination.
Chapter 4 · Safety and Storage Devices ↗ -
How does a cable lock typically work?
A strong steel cable is looped through the action to block its operation
The cable blocks the firearm’s operation and prevents accidental firing.
Chapter 4 · Safety and Storage Devices ↗ -
Do trigger locks and cable locks keep someone from handling or taking the firearm?
No, they are not designed to prevent access to the firearm
These locks stop the firearm from being loaded or fired, but not from being handled or stolen.
Chapter 4 · Safety and Storage Devices ↗ -
What is one advantage of lock boxes and firearm safes?
They are designed to completely prevent unintended handling and removal
Firearm safes usually weigh at least 50 pounds and are generally more reliable and secure.
Chapter 4 · Safety and Storage Devices ↗ -
What does the security of a safety or storage device depend on?
How well you protect the key or the combination
A device is only as secure as the precautions taken with its key or combination.
Chapter 4 · Safety and Storage Devices ↗ -
When children could be around, how should ammunition be stored?
Separately from the firearm, in a locked container
The firearm is stored unloaded with a safety device in a locked container, and the ammunition is locked up separately.
Chapter 4 · Methods of Childproofing ↗ -
Which of these is a storage place the guide tells you to avoid?
Under your mattress or pillow
Do not store a firearm in a bedside table, under a mattress or pillow, on a closet shelf, or anywhere it is visible.
Chapter 4 · Methods of Childproofing ↗ -
What does the guide name as the first step in becoming a responsible firearm owner?
Developing a mindset for safe and responsible usage and storage
The mindset comes first, then knowledge of firearms and safety, then skill in handling.
Introduction · Becoming a Safe and Responsible Firearm Owner ↗