Terran Gear USA is proud to support law-abiding Californians by helping you find legal paths to save money, simplify firearm purchases, and exercise your Second Amendment rights with confidence. After all, we're in this together! Outside of running the business of Terran Gear USA, our owner like most of us are fellow non-exempt residents of California who strive to remain compliant with the law while exercising our rights in our beautiful state.
If you're a California resident passionate about collecting firearms - especially Curio & Relic (C&R) guns - a Type 03 FFL combined with a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) opens the door to significant privileges.
Below, we break down exactly what these documents allow you to do, why they're worth getting, how to stay compliant, and how to apply step-by-step.
✅ What Is a Type 03 FFL?
The Type 03 Federal Firearms License (FFL03) is issued by the ATF specifically for Collectors of Curios and Relics (C&R). These are firearms that are at least 50 years old or officially designated by the ATF as C&R due to their historical, cultural, or collectible value.
✅ What Is a California Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
A COE certifies that you've passed a Department of Justice (DOJ) background check and are legally allowed to acquire or possess firearms in California.
Top Benefits of a C&R 03 FFL + COE in California
Skip the “1-in-30” Rule
With a valid 03 FFL and COE, you’re exempt from California’s 1-in-30-day rule and not just for C&R firearms. This exemption applies to all firearms.
⏱️ Bypass the 10-Day Waiting Period (For C&R Only)
The 10-day waiting period is waived only for C&R firearms when you have both an 03 FFL and COE.
Face-to-Face C&R Firearm Transfers Within California
Collectors can legally purchase C&R long guns in face-to-face transactions with other California residents without using a traditional FFL dealer.
Buy Ammo Without Background Checks
You'll be able to purchase ammunition online or in person and have it shipped directly to your door, without needing to go through a licensed vendor or undergo a background check - a huge convenience.
Buy C&R Firearms Out-of-State and Bring Them Back
You may legally purchase C&R firearms (long guns and handguns) while physically outside of California, as long as they are CA-legal (i.e., not considered "assault weapons"). You can bring them back yourself - no FFL required for return. (Note: COE is not required for out-of-state purchases.)
⚠️ Important Legal Notes
- You must report all C&R firearm acquisitions to the CA DOJ if no traditional FFL was involved.
- Direct-to-door firearm shipments are no longer legal in CA, even with an 03 FFL. Some out-of-state sellers may still offer this, but accepting such shipments is a huge legal risk. Don't do it.
Additional Uses for a COE
- Use in place of a Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC)
- Import ammunition legally acquired outside California
- Facilitate exempt firearm sales or transfers
Drawbacks of the 03 FFL + COE
- You must maintain acquisition records for all C&R firearms. These records are subject to ATF audit.
- License & application fees: 03 FFL is $30/3 years; COE is $22/year, with startup costs as high as $200 (Live Scan included).
- Navigating Legislative Risks with a Smile and a Vote: Future changes to California law could reshape or even eliminate key exemptions, impacting businesses and individuals like us alike. But here’s the deal: sitting on the sidelines, grumbling about how “it’s hopeless in California,” won’t move the needle. Don’t be that person - channel your inner optimist and make your voice heard! Every vote counts, and your perspective matters more than you think. Instead of accepting things as they are, let’s aim for what they could and should be. Get out there, vote, and let’s shape a future that’s worth smiling about!
How to Apply
Step 1: Apply for a Type 03 FFL
Visit the ATF’s site and complete Form 7CR.
Step 2: Apply for a California COE
Complete the online application and Live Scan fingerprinting via the CA DOJ.
Bonus: What Qualifies as a C&R Firearm?
C&R firearms include:
- All firearms over 50 years old (from date of manufacture)
- ATF-designated Curio & Relic firearms with historic, collectible, or cultural value
View the full list on the ATF’s site: Curios & Relics List
Final Thoughts
If you're a California-based firearm collector, obtaining an 03 FFL and COE is one of the best legal tools you can use to grow your collection and reduce red tape.
You'll save time, avoid unnecessary background checks and delays, and enjoy more freedom as a law-abiding collector.
Questions about eligibility or the C&R process in California?
Contact us at info@TerranGearUSA.com — we're happy to help guide you.