Updated September 26, 2026. California Senate Bill 948 (SB 948) has been signed into law. This resource explains what the new Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) training requirements mean for California firearm owners, prospective purchasers, and CCW holders, and will be updated as the California Department of Justice releases implementation guidance.
What is California SB 948?
SB 948 changes California's Firearm Safety Certificate process. Beginning January 1, 2029, many FSC applicants will be required to complete qualifying firearm training within the previous year before receiving an FSC.
When does the new FSC training requirement begin?
January 1, 2029. The enrolled text of SB 948 states that an applicant for a firearm safety certificate on or after January 1, 2029 must have completed the qualifying training course within the prior year. California DOJ may issue additional regulations and implementation guidance before the requirement begins.
Why are some SB 948 dates listed as 2028?
SB 948 contains a separate January 1, 2028 provision affecting personal firearm importers. Beginning on that date, specified personal firearm importers must certify that they have a valid Firearm Safety Certificate or qualify for an exemption. That 2028 provision is separate from the new four-hour FSC training requirement, which begins January 1, 2029.
How much training will SB 948 require?
The law establishes a minimum of four hours of training. The curriculum includes firearm safety and responsible ownership, safe handling, safe storage, shooting fundamentals, California firearm transfer and straw-purchase laws, prohibited-person and relinquishment requirements, self-defense and use-of-force law, conflict resolution, carrying and transportation requirements, and vehicle storage.
Does SB 948 require live-fire training?
Yes. The qualifying course includes live-fire shooting exercises on an actual firing range. Applicants must demonstrate safe firearm handling and basic shooting proficiency.
Are California CCW holders exempt?
SB 948 includes important exemptions. A person with a valid California concealed carry license is exempt from the new FSC training requirement. A person who completed qualifying California initial or renewal CCW training under Penal Code section 26165 within the previous three years is also exempt from this training requirement.
Who can teach SB 948 / FSC training?
The law provides that instructors certified to provide California CCW training under Penal Code section 26165 are deemed certified to provide the new FSC training. California DOJ may establish additional implementation procedures through regulation.
What should California firearm owners do now?
There is no need to take the 2029 FSC course today. Firearm owners and prospective purchasers should follow California DOJ guidance as implementation develops. Medic Up Consulting will continue updating this page when official requirements, procedures, documentation standards, or other implementation details are released.
What does SB 948 mean for Medic Up students?
Medic Up Consulting provides California CCW and firearms training combining classroom education, firearm safety, live-fire range instruction, and practical skills. Our team will monitor California DOJ implementation of SB 948 and provide students with clear updates well before January 1, 2029.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SB 948 already law?
Yes. Governor Gavin Newsom signed SB 948 on September 26, 2026.
Do I need four hours of FSC training right now?
No. The new FSC training requirement is scheduled to begin January 1, 2029.
Will the course include shooting?
Yes. The statute requires live-fire shooting exercises at a firing range and a demonstration of safe handling and basic shooting proficiency.
Does my California CCW count?
A valid California CCW license is an exemption under SB 948. Qualifying initial or renewal CCW training completed within the previous three years is also an exemption from the new FSC training requirement.
Can Medic Up provide this training?
SB 948 provides that instructors certified to provide California CCW training under Penal Code section 26165 are deemed certified to provide the new FSC training. Medic Up will publish course availability after California DOJ implementation details are sufficiently established.
Stay Updated on California SB 948
This page is intended to remain a continuously updated California SB 948 and FSC training resource. Bookmark it and check back as DOJ regulations and implementation guidance are released.
Medic Up Consulting LLC
California firearms, CCW, and safety training serving Los Angeles, the San Gabriel Valley, and surrounding Southern California communities.
Educational information only; not legal advice. Requirements may change through regulation, litigation, or subsequent legislation. Verify current requirements with the California Department of Justice and other applicable government agencies.
