If you are wondering what is federal firearms license or FFL, then this article would help you. We will be discussing the requirements for getting an FFL, about different types of licenses and other details that can give you a clear idea about the whole process of buying and selling guns in America.
The weapons market has always been one of the most flourishing markets in United States. Firearms have been considered as a necessity in modern civilization, and it may be the oldest ranged weapon mankind has discovered so far. In fact, these weapons should be given special care while being used or transported to avoid any unwanted accident.
Types of FFL Licenses:
There are three different types of FFL licenses available in the United States. They are:
Type 1
If you want to engage in manufacturing and importing activities, then you should opt for Type 1 license. This license is given by ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives). You can get this license if you have an effective business dealing with weapons and ammunitions of any type.
Type 2
If you want to deal in firearms, then Type 2 license is required for that. You can get this license if you have a business establishment that deals with guns and ammunition of any sort. This license is given by ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives), and you must have a huge capital to get this license.
Type 3
If you want to sell or trade guns in your shop, then Type 3 is the most appropriate license for that job. It is given by ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives). You need to invest in high amount of money to get this license.
The application process:
To obtain an FFL is a very cumbersome task, and it is not as easy as you might think it is. The whole procedure of obtaining the license involves lots of money as well as time so you must be prepared for both before starting your journey on this path. If you want to obtain a Type 1 or Type 2 license, then you need to get yourself registered with your local ATF office.
If you want a Type 3 license then you must register with your local Chief law enforcement officer. Once the registration is done, then only you can start working on managing a gun shop/store. The whole process of application for ATF license is very complex, and it requires a lot of paperwork to be filled.
There are three steps that must be completed with precision to obtain an FFL license. They are:
1) Application
To receive the license for Type 1 or Type 2 you need to file the application accordingly. There are two forms available on ATF website which you can fill according to your needs. One is form 7, and the other one is an assortment of different forms that are required for Type 1 or 2 license. You have to attach a complete set of documents with all forms before passing them on to ATF agent.
2) Investigation
Now comes the most crucial stage where your application security and how you have planned to carry out the business is judged. The investigation part consists of several other procedures as well such as background checks, neighborhood check, etc. After careful evaluation of your application by ATF agent you will be issued a letter regarding your approval or rejection for FFL license. If approved then you can proceed towards the next step.
3) FFL Training
Once your application has been approved, you will be issued a complete guide for gun dealers. After going through this book you will learn everything about how to conduct the business of dealing with firearms and other ammunitions. If by any chance you fail to study all these guidelines then ATF can take back their approval.
Cost of FFL:
You must pay a huge amount of money to get your application passed in the investigation department. The general cost for Type 1 license starts from $250 and goes up to $3000 depending upon what type of business you are going to do with firearms and ammunition. On the other hand, Type 2 license costs more than Type 1 license and it can go up to $10000.
If you want a Type 3 license, then the cost is not fixed for that. You have to pay ATF regional director a particular fee which varies from time to time because it is not fixed. Generally, the starting price of this license is around $1000 but can go up to $3000 depending upon the type of business you are planning.
