Can I BUY A HANDGUN NOT ON THE “ROSTER”?
From Calguns Foundation Wiki
Frequently Asked Questions: Can I BUY A HANDGUN NOT ON THE “ROSTER”?
Yes, but unless you are exempt, not from California FFLs. Generally, the exemption is for current law enforcement.
A California Private Party Transfer is exempt from the Roster. Any California resident, including LEO, may sell an off-Roster handgun to another California resident.
Because interstate transfers must go through a California FFL, ordering an off-Roster handgun from a gun sales web site or an out of state FFL will not work.