Last Updated: July 2026 | This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have questions about your specific situation, consult your local law enforcement or a California-licensed attorney.
Are stun guns legal in California? Yes — purchasing, owning, and carrying stun guns and TASER devices for personal self-defense is legal in California under California Penal Code § 22610. No permit, background check, or license is required at the point of sale. Certain people are prohibited from possessing them, and specific locations ban carry even for eligible owners.
California Stun Gun Carry Rules
- No Permit Required: Unlike handguns, stun guns and TASERs can be carried concealed or openly in California without a Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permit. No license is required to purchase or carry.
- No Background Check at Point of Sale: California does not require a background check for stun gun purchases the way it does for firearms. Eligibility is the buyer's responsibility.
Who Cannot Possess a Stun Gun in California
Under PC § 22610, the following persons are prohibited from purchasing, possessing, or using a stun gun:
- Felony Convictions: Anyone convicted of a felony under federal, California, or any other state or country's laws faces a lifetime ban.
- Assault Convictions: Anyone convicted of any crime involving assault, including misdemeanor assault or battery.
- Prior Stun Gun Misuse: Anyone previously convicted of misuse of a stun gun under California Penal Code § 244.5.
- Narcotics Addiction: Any person actively addicted to a narcotic drug.
- Minors Under 16: No one under 16 may possess a stun gun. Those aged 16 or 17 may possess one only with written parental or legal guardian consent. Selling a stun gun to a minor under 16 without parental consent is a public offense carrying a $50 fine for a first violation and a misdemeanor for subsequent violations.
Possession by a prohibited person (such as a convicted felon) is a misdemeanor carrying up to six months in county jail and a $1,000 fine.
Where Stun Guns Are Prohibited in California
Even eligible owners cannot carry a stun gun in the following locations:
- K-12 school grounds and college or university campuses (Penal Code § 626.10)
- Public buildings or meetings legally required to be open to the public
- State, county, and local government buildings and courtrooms
- Airport secure areas past TSA screening checkpoints
- Harbor and port passenger terminals
Shop Stun Guns for California
TBOTECH ships stun guns and TASER devices to all California residential addresses. Compliance with California law is the buyer's responsibility.
- Stun Guns: Browse our full catalog of self-defense stun guns — compact models, flashlight combos, and keychain options.
- TASER Devices: View our selection of TASER devices for ranged protection up to 15 feet.
- Stun Batons: Extended reach for home defense — browse our stun batons.
- Flashlight Stun Guns: A practical daily carry option — browse our tactical flashlight stun guns.