The first step to legally acquire firearms in California is to obtain a Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC). Simply locate a DOJ Certified Instructor, pass the 30-question, multiple choice test, pay the $25 fee, and you will be issued an FSC, valid for five years. Firearm dealers will need your FSC number in order to complete firearm transactions with you.
I’m also a DOJ Certified Instructor, so if you have a firearm shipped to me, but don’t yet have your FSC, don’t worry–you can take the test at your first paperwork appointment. I recommend reviewing the Firearm Safety Certificate Study Guide ahead of time.