Registering a gun in california?

There is no requirement to register a shotgun in California. Generally there is a transfer document called a DROS or Dealer Record of Sale that must be completed (along with a waiting period) if the transfer takes place between non-related parties. Basically, you have to go the gun shop and pay $32 for the dealer to run a background check and hold the weapon during the waiting period.

However, there is an exception to this rule if the transfer is not a handgun and is taking place between immediate family members. (PC 12078(c)(1)). All that has to happen is your husband takes possession of the firearm.

The fact that the firearm is coming from Washington isn't all that important as long as the transfer occurs in California. If it were a handgun, your husband would be considered a"personal handgun importer" and would have to register it.

Washington laws are similar There isn't any requirement to record the transfer.

I know it seems odd to someone who doesn't own many firearms but there is much less regulation regarding long guns than are involved with handguns and "assault rifles."

The shotgun isn't in anyone's "name." When your father-in-law bought it, he didn't have to register it, so its like any other household object that a person would own. If you really feel compelled to report to the state what guns you have, California offers a voluntary Firearm Ownership Record but they charge you $19 per firearm to process it. http://ag.ca.gov/firearms/forms/pdf/volreg.pdf

Well you have 60 days to register the gun in california, but you do have too do it. You can go to any gun dealer they can do it. They might charge a small fee but its better then gettin a ticket, for it.