FSC - Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) General Questions and Answers 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: How long is a California Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) valid after it is issued?
- 1 year
- 3 years
- 5 years (Correct answer)
- 10 years
Correct answer: 5 years
A California FSC is valid for five years from the date it is issued. After that period, the holder must pass the test again to obtain a new certificate before purchasing another firearm.
Question 2: How many questions are included on the California FSC written test?
- 20
- 25
- 30 (Correct answer)
- 50
Correct answer: 30
The California FSC written test consists of 30 questions covering firearm safety, safe storage, and state laws. Test-takers must answer at least 75% (23 out of 30) correctly to pass.
Question 3: What is the minimum passing score required on the California FSC written test?
- 70%
- 75% (Correct answer)
- 80%
- 85%
Correct answer: 75%
Applicants must correctly answer at least 75% of the questions — 23 out of 30 — to pass the FSC test and receive their certificate. Scoring below this threshold requires a retake.
Question 4: Which of the following individuals is generally EXEMPT from the California FSC requirement when purchasing a firearm?
- A first-time buyer purchasing a rifle
- A retired peace officer purchasing a handgun (Correct answer)
- A college student purchasing a shotgun for home defense
- A hunter purchasing a new long gun
Correct answer: A retired peace officer purchasing a handgun
Certain groups, including active and retired peace officers, are exempt from the FSC requirement under California law. Regular civilian buyers — regardless of their reason for purchase — must obtain a valid FSC.
Question 5: How much does it cost to take the California Firearm Safety Certificate test?
- $15
- $20
- $25 (Correct answer)
- $35
Correct answer: $25
The California Department of Justice sets the FSC test fee at $25, which is collected by the licensed dealer who administers the test. This fee is non-refundable regardless of whether the applicant passes or fails.
Question 6: Where must a person go to take the California Firearm Safety Certificate written test?
- Any California DMV office
- A licensed California firearms dealer (Correct answer)
- The local county courthouse
- Online through the California DOJ website
Correct answer: A licensed California firearms dealer
The FSC test is administered exclusively at licensed California firearms dealers (FFLs). Dealers are certified by the DOJ to administer the test and issue certificates to applicants who pass.
FSC - Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) General Questions and Answers 1
How long is a California Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) valid after it is issued?