Chris,
The bottom line for 2003 is that the sale must go through a FFL and the buyer must have the new Firearms Safety Certificate (that's new as of 2003). Dealers can administer this test (for a fee) and they take your right thumbprint. The old BFSC (which was good for life) isn't good for life. The lawmakers lied......again.
Also, the exemption for Honorably Discharge veterans is gone, too. Can't trust those Vets anymore....
Hasn't been legal to do a private party sale without a FFL since 1-1-91.
Thought I'd add this. The California Rifle And Pistol Association and FAQs for selling, transferring, etc. Click here:
http://caag.state.ca.us/firearms/pubfaqs.htm#9Sad, huh?
Ka6otm