Purchasing a firearm in the US involves federal and state regulations. Federal law requires all purchases from licensed dealers (FFLs) to include a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Process
- Verify your eligibility — You must be a US citizen or legal resident, meet the minimum age (18 for long guns, 21 for handguns from a dealer), have no felony convictions, no domestic violence convic...
- Research your state's laws — Some states require purchase permits, firearms owner ID cards (e.g., Illinois FOID), waiting periods, or registration. Check your state's firearms laws through your sta...
- Choose a licensed dealer (FFL) — All purchases from a retail store or online seller must go through a Federal Firearms Licensee. Online purchases must be shipped to a local FFL for transfer.
- Select your firearm — Research and handle different firearms to find one that fits your needs (home defense, sport shooting, hunting). Consider taking a firearms safety course first.
- Complete ATF Form 4473 — Fill out the Firearms Transaction Record at the dealer. This asks for your name, address, date of birth, SSN (optional but speeds up the check), and questions about your cr...
- Undergo the NICS background check — The dealer submits your information to NICS (electronically or by phone). Most checks return in minutes with a "Proceed," "Denied," or "Delayed" response.
- Handle a delayed response — If delayed, the FBI has 3 business days to make a determination. If no response after 3 business days, the dealer may (but is not required to) proceed with the sale.
- Complete any state requirements — Pay any state fees, complete registration (if required), and wait through any mandatory waiting period.
- Take possession of your firearm — Once all checks are cleared and requirements met, the dealer transfers the firearm to you.
- Store your firearm safely — Use a locked safe, trigger lock, or lockbox. Store ammunition separately if children are in the home.
Common Mistakes
- Lying on Form 4473
- Not knowing state laws
- Buying for someone else (straw purchase)
- Assuming private sales have no rules
- Skipping safety training
Pro Tips
- A concealed carry permit or state firearms license can sometimes serve as an ...
- If your NICS check is delayed frequently, you can apply for a UPIN (Unique Pe...
- Many states offer tax-free weekends or sales on firearms and accessories for ...
- Consider joining a range or shooting club for access to training, storage, an...
- Federal law prohibits firearm possession in certain locations (federal buildi...