Once you have decided to make an application for a Federal Firearms License (commonly referred to as an “FFL”), send the completed application to the ATF post office box listed on the application form, Application for License (FFL) - ATF Form 7/7CR. The application must be accompanied by the proper application fee, which you can pay by check, credit card or money order (we do not accept cash).
Once the application fee is processed, the Federal Firearms Licensing Center (FFLC) will enter your application information into its database and commence a full review of your application. For all license types, except type 03, required supporting materials, including fingerprint card(s) and photograph(s) will also be reviewed.
As required by law, the FFLC will then conduct an electronic background check on all the Responsible Persons you have identified on your application. ATF defines a Responsible Person (RP) as a sole proprietor, partner, or anyone having the power to direct the management, policies, and practices of the business or activity as it pertains to firearms. In a corporation this includes corporate officers, shareholders, board members, or any other employee with the legal authority described above. All responsible persons must complete their own Part B – Responsible Person Questionnaire of the ATF Form 7/7CR.
For all license types, except type 03 (onsite inspections are not required for Collector of Curio and Relics FFLs), the FFLC will then send the applications to the nearest ATF field office having responsibility for the area in which the business is located.
The field office supervisor will issue an assignment to an Industry Operations Investigator (IOI) who will conduct an in-person interview with you. The IOI will discuss federal, state and local requirements with you, and go over your application with you to ensure the information is correct and current.
The IOI will then prepare a report of his/her interview, the inspection and make a recommendation to either issue you the license or deny the application. Some reasons for denial may include failure to comply with State or local law (such as zoning ordinances), evidence of previous willful violations of the Gun Control Act, or falsification of the application.
The field office supervisor will also review the report and then submit his/her recommendation to the FFLC.
Assuming that all background checks have been completed and your business address and proposed business operations are in compliance with state and local law, the FFLC will complete the application processing and issue you the license. This process will take approximately 60 days from the receipt of a properly completed application.