How to Apply for a Class-1 FFL License

Become a legal gun dealer by filing for your Class-1 Federal Firearms License.

If you are looking to start a business selling firearms, you must comply with the federal laws regarding the sale and distribution of firearms. The agency responsible for enforcing these laws is the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF). Under the Gun Control Act of 1968 (as amended), dealers must be fingerprinted and must file ATF Form 7. This form is not available on the Internet. You must contact the ATF and request the application packet.

Instructions

1. Double-check that a Class-1 Federal Firearms License (FFL) is the type you need. There are several FFL types. Class-1 allows you to deal or gunsmith firearms (not destructive devices).

2. Call the ATF's Distribution Center at 703-455-7801. Inform the operator that you need ATF Form 7 and the fingerprint cards. You can also request this form over the Internet by visiting http://www.atf.gov. See the Resources for links to websites where you can order the forms over the Internet.

3. Fill out the forms according to the instructions contained in the packet.

4. Arrange a time to be fingerprinted and bring your fingerprint cards to the appointment. Check with agencies in your area that perform security checks and do fingerprinting; this may also be done at your local police department.

5. Send the completed Form 7 and the filled-in fingerprint cards back to the ATF. Tender the filing fee. As of 2010, the fee for Type 1 FFL's is $200.

References

• ATF.gov: Form 7 Instructions
• Get-FFL-License.net: FFL Types
• NRAILA.org: FFL Filing Costs

Resources

• ATF.gov: Request Forms from the ATF