If you are someone who makes a living from selling, repairing, or buying guns, you also need to obtain an FFL or a Federal Firearms License in order to legally run your gun business. Likewise, manufacturers, pawnbrokers, dealers, importers, as well as owners of shops related to serious gun collecting also need to obtain an FFL. Obtaining this kind of license comes with very strict requirements. Here are some of the steps on how to obtain an FFL.
Step 1: Assess if you meet the basic requirements.
Some of the basic requirements needed to obtain an FFL include the following. Note that these may also vary from state-to-state.
- At least 21 years of age
- Has never relinquished US citizenship
- Not considered as an illegal alien
- Resident of the state where you intend to put up business or where your business is currently located
- Have never violated any federal laws on firearms like selling orpurchasing guns with no proper licensure
- Have not been found guilty of a crime requiring 1-year imprisonment
- Have not received any restraining orders for spouse, child, or intimate partner harassment
- Must not be using uncontrolled substances illegally and must not be addicted to it
- Have not been committed to any mental institution
- Must not be discharged dishonorably from the Armed Forces
Step 2: Take time to understand what the Federal Firearms License is for.
You must understand that the FFL is not a license for carrying a gun. Therefore, it is not for personal use. It is actually a business license, but it does not allow you to do business, which is against any state or local laws.
You must understand that the FFL is not a license for carrying a gun. Therefore, it is not for personal use. It is actually a business license, but it does not allow you to do business, which is against any state or local laws.
Moreover, there are certain cases when you do not need to obtain an FFL. If you will be selling guns at a gun show, purchasing a gun for your personal collection, if your business is non-profit, or if you sell ammunition, an FFL is not required.
Step 3: Make sure that your business has met the local regulations.
Before obtaining the FFL, you also need to make sure that you are complying with local regulations. Your business address cannot be a P.O. Box and your sales must majorly come from non-family members or the FFL application will be denied.
Step 4: Perform the proper application process.
- Obtain the right forms.
- Fill out the forms properly.
- Get fingerprinted.
- Have a photograph ready.
- Know the total fee amount and have those ready for your application as well.
- Mail your application with the other requirements to The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives.
- Submit some copies to the local Chief Law Enforcement Office or CLEO.
- Be ready for inspection.
Obtaining an FFL may be a bit tedious, but it is a requirement that you will need if you are to put up a gun business. If you need to know more details on how to obtain an FFL, you can rely on guides such as the Federal Firearms License Guide (FFL) & Class 3 (SOT) License Guide, which you can find here: www.ffltrust.com/product/federal-firearms-license-guide-class-3-sot-license-guide
