No, the entire program is being replaced.  The new requirements require a safety/handling test on THAT particular firearm by a qualified person, AND require the card, which you need to be fingerprinted in order to get.  All of that in addition to the fees.  Note that most of this is for handguns only, though.

-Troy

Actually, it looks like the thumbprint will affect ALL transfers, as it is a new DROS requirement (which must also be submitted electronically starting 1/1/2003), not just a handgun requirement.


[url]caag.state.ca.us/firearms/forms/pdf/hsc.pdf[/url]

Effective January 1, 2003, dealers must record and retain the purchaser’s right thumbprint on the
back of the DROS.

Effective January 1, 2003, prior to the delivery of a handgun, dealers will be required to:

• Obtain a photocopy of the purchaser’s California residency documentation as proof of
compliance.

• Retain a photocopy of the purchaser’s valid Handgun Safety Certificate (HSC) card as
proof of compliance.

• Ensure that the purchaser has successfully performed a safe handling demonstration with the
handgun that is being purchased. [red]A DOJ Certified Instructor must evaluate the demonstration.[/red]

The dealer and purchaser must sign and date an affidavit as proof of compliance.

Detailed information and training regarding the above provisions will be provided in the fall of 2002.


-Troy

DROS = Dealer's Record Of Sale

In the PRK, every gun transferred by an FFL must have a DROS, and a DROS fee ($14?).  Your FFL handles this paperwork, so most people don't see or think much about it.  But, yeah, any gun you buy is now gonna require a thumbprint.

Of course, if you have a PRK-issued drivers license or ID card, they have your thumb print already...

-Troy