What is DROS?

DROS stands for Dealer Record of Sale. It's the background check for every California firearm purchase. It also starts the 10-day waiting period and registers the firearm to you when you pick it up. DROS is managed by the California Department of Justice. You can find more information at oag.ca.gov/firearms.

The 10-day wait & pickup window

If you complete your DROS and pickup at our La Mesa (San Diego area) location, you must do so in person and be present at both the start and the end of the 10-day wait. Nothing can be done remotely or electronically. If driving to San Diego isn't feasible, we're glad to ship your firearm to a licensed gun store closer to you instead.

Your firearm must be physically at our store to start the DROS, and you must have all required documents with you at the start. These are state requirements we're unable to waive for any reason.

Required for all rifles, shotguns & pistols

You must have these documents in hand to start the DROS:

A valid, unexpired California ID or driver's license

You must present the actual physical card — no copies, photos, or interim documents will be accepted.

Active duty military

You'll need your CAC and a copy of your orders, and you must be stationed in California. TDY/TAD does not qualify.

If your address is incorrect on your CA ID or DL

You must provide an additional valid, government-issued document showing your name and correct address before we can submit the DROS. A PO Box is not an acceptable address. Common examples:

• DMV vehicle registration (must be current)
• Guard Card / Firearms Card
• CCW
• Fishing / hunting license
• Municipal utility bill — must be an actual government-run utility. Private companies (such as SDG&E, PG&E, or Helix Water) are not accepted; it must be government issued.

"Federal Limits Apply" IDs

If your ID or driver's license is marked "Federal Limits Apply," you must also present proof of citizenship, such as a valid passport or birth certificate. You'll find this marking in the upper-right corner of the card — here's an example of what to look for:

For full guidance, see the California DOJ document below.

CA DOJ: Additional Documentation Guidance (PDF)

Additional requirement for pistol purchases

If you're buying a pistol, in addition to everything above you'll need to provide proof of residency. Common examples include:

• Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permit
• Utility bill for a "hard-wired" service — electric, gas, water, or internet (must be current within 3 months and be a bill for services)
• Curio & Relic (C&R) Federal Firearms License (03 FFL) showing your name and address
• Current DMV disabled placard
• Current DMV registration
• Resident hunting license issued by the Department of Fish and Wildlife
• Fishing license — commercial, resident sport, lifetime, or 10-day, issued by the Department of Fish and Wildlife
• A signed, dated, and notarized rental agreement or contract

For more information, see the CA DOJ firearms dealer FAQ.

Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC)

Most buyers will need a valid Firearm Safety Certificate. If you don't have one, WBT can issue you one on site. You do not need an FSC to make a purchase online — it's only required to take possession.

Be ready to take a 30-question test (we recommend reviewing the study guide first). The FSC costs $25 and is valid for 5 years.

Firearm Safety Certificate FAQ  •  FSC Study Guide (PDF)

Accepted FSC exemptions

• Active or retired military with valid ID
• Active or retired police officer
• Hunting license (for long guns only)
• Valid California CCW
• Exposed Weapon Permit issued by BSIS