First Shots - Beginner Pistol Training

Beginner Firearms Training

This is our First Shots training. If you’ve never fired a gun before, this is the perfect place to start.

We designed this course specifically for first-time shooters. You’ll have the opportunity to choose from several different pistol calibers and models, giving you hands-on experience in a comfortable, safe environment. Our goal is simple:

We help you get familiar with how a pistol works while eliminating the fear and misconceptions that often come with handling a firearm for the first time.

What This Class Covers

This is basic handgun training for beginners. An introduction to firearms—not a personal defense course. You will:

Learn essential safety rules
Understand firearm parts and terminology
Practice basic pistol shooting skills

By the end of the course, you’ll feel confident operating a pistol safely in a controlled setting.

What This Class Doesn’t Cover

This course does not prepare you for armed self-defense. If your goal is to carry or use a firearm for personal protection, you’ll need additional training, including:

Basic and intermediate pistol courses
Personal protection classes
Hours of range practice with your own firearm

Start here. Build confidence.
Then continue your journey with the skills and mindset every responsible gun owner needs.

Safety Equipment and Basic Rules

When you attend our course, we will provide you with the following:

• Targets

• Earplugs

• Eye protection

• A dozen different types of pistols.

While we supply the gear, your responsibility for safety starts the moment you handle a firearm. Please review and follow these essential safety rules at all times during training.

1. Always Keep Your Firearm Pointed in a Safe Direction

Never point your firearm at anything you don’t intend to shoot. This rule is critical—especially when you’re loading or unloading. If a negligent discharge happens, keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction prevents injury.

A safe direction is one where a fired round cannot strike anyone—even if it ricochets or penetrates a surface. Depending on your surroundings, a safe direction might be:

• Upward (if there are no people or objects above)

• Downward (if the floor can stop a bullet)

But it’s never toward a person, an unintended target, or anything you’re not prepared to destroy.

Even when handling an unloaded firearm or practicing dry fire, always treat the muzzle as if it’s live.

2. Know Where Your Muzzle Is—At All Times

Get in the habit of knowing exactly where your muzzle is pointing. This awareness must be constant.

You control the direction of the muzzle:

• When you draw or reholster

• When you move or turn

• Even if you fall or stumble

Nobody else can take responsibility for where your firearm is pointed. That’s on you—and it’s a habit that separates safe gun owners from negligent ones.

By following these foundational safety rules, you’ll help create a secure, professional environment for yourself and others on the range.
Safety is not a suggestion—it’s the standard.

What Is a Firearm Safety Certificate?

The FSC is a document issued by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) after you pass a written test on firearm safety. The certificate shows that you’ve completed basic safety training and that you’re legally eligible to own or purchase a firearm in California.

You need an FSC to buy both handguns and long guns in the state. California law places responsibility on every gun owner to handle firearms safely. The FSC confirms that you accept that responsibility and have the knowledge to act accordingly.

Who Is Exempt from the FSC Requirement?

While most people must obtain an FSC, California law provides exemptions for certain individuals. If you fall into one of the following categories, you may not need an FSC:

• Active-duty, reserve, or honorably retired military personnel

• Active peace officers in California or with the federal government

• Honorably retired federal peace officers and California reserve peace officers

• Special weapons permit holders

• Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders who collect antique firearms

• Individuals with limited authority peace officer status

• Valid hunting license holders purchasing long guns

• Holders of a California CCW permit

• Those receiving a law enforcement service firearm from a family member

• Operation of Law representatives (such as estate executors)

Always verify your exemption status with a DOJ-certified FSC instructor or dealer before purchasing a firearm.

Why the FSC Matters

The FSC program provides two major safety benefits:

1. It reduces accidental injuries and deaths by teaching proper handling and storage practices.

2. It protects children in homes with firearms by emphasizing secure storage and responsible behavior.

New firearm owners who skip safety training may unintentionally put themselves or others at risk. The FSC helps prevent that.

How to Get a Firearm Safety Certificate

To get your FSC, follow these steps:

1. Be at least 18 years old.

2. Present a valid California ID or driver’s license.

3. Study for the FSC test using the official guide or by enrolling in a prep class.

4. Find a DOJ-certified instructor or licensed firearms dealer to administer the test.

5. Pass the written exam with a score of 75% or higher (23 out of 30 questions).

What Does the Test Cover?

The FSC test includes multiple-choice and true/false questions covering topics such as:

• Firearm safety rules

• Parts and operation of handguns and long guns

• Ammunition types and selection

• Shooting fundamentals and positions

• How to clear malfunctions

• Proper cleaning and maintenance

• Using firearm accessories

• Basic skill development

• California firearm laws

The DOJ provides a downloadable FSC Study Guide, which contains everything you need to pass the test. Read it thoroughly before your exam.

Cost and Validity

• The FSC test costs $25.

• The fee includes two test attempts, so if you don’t pass the first time, you can try again without paying more.

• Once issued, the FSC is valid for five years.

• After expiration, you must retake the test and pay the fee again to renew your certificate.

Stay Informed

Firearm laws can change frequently. Even if you’ve passed the FSC test, continue to stay up to date with California gun laws to ensure you remain in compliance and practice safe, responsible ownership.

The FSC Study Guide

There isn’t a training program required, only testing. The CA DOJ does offer a study guide in pdf format. And it can be downloaded using the link above.