How to Obtain a Gun License
That right to bear arms is afforded to you under the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution. However, an FFL (Federal Firearms License) is required to enter any type of business dealing with guns and ammunition. The same general process for obtaining an FFL applies to every state. It involves filing paperwork with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and cooperating with your local police department. There are also strict standards that you must meet before becoming eligible to apply for a license.
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Instructions
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Make sure you meet the minimum requirements for an FFL. You cannot be under the age of 21, a fugitive of the law, an illegal alien or an adjudicated mental defective. You cannot have received a dishonorable discharge from the military, had your citizenship renounced or been convicted of a felony or domestic violence.
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Determine the type of license you need. You may decide to become a gunsmith, an importer or manufacturer of ammunition and firearms, or a dealer of exclusive types of firearms.
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Visit the ATF website and click on Application for License ATF Form 7. Follow the 5310 series instructions to have an application kit promptly delivered to you.
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Complete two copies of the application for the ATF, one for local law enforcement and one for yourself.
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Bring a recent 2 by 2-inch passport photo to your local police department and complete a fingerprint card. An officer will assist you with the prints and sign off on it.
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Give one copy of your application to the law enforcement official and mail two copies to the ATF. An ATF agent will contact you with details on when you can receive your license. Time lines can differ from state to state.
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