FFL Transfer Process: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
An FFL transfer is the legal process of transferring ownership of a firearm through a licensed Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) dealer. Federal law requires that most firearm purchases — especially those made online or across state lines — be routed through a licensed dealer who can verify the buyer's eligibility and maintain proper records.
What Is an FFL Transfer?
When you buy a firearm from an online retailer or a seller in another state, the gun cannot be shipped directly to your home. Instead, it must be shipped to an FFL dealer near you. That dealer receives the firearm, logs it into their records, conducts a background check, and then transfers the firearm to you after all legal requirements are met.
This process applies to:
- Online firearm purchases from retailers like GunBroker, Guns.com, or manufacturer websites
- Out-of-state private party sales
- Gifts of firearms from out-of-state relatives
- Any transfer where state law requires FFL involvement
Step-by-Step FFL Transfer Process
Step 1 – Find a Local FFL Dealer
Use FFLSearch.net to find licensed dealers near you who accept incoming transfers. Call ahead to confirm they accept transfers from the retailer you are buying from and ask about their transfer fee. Transfer fees typically range from $20 to $50 per firearm.
Step 2 – Purchase the Firearm
Complete your purchase online or from the out-of-state seller. During checkout, you will be asked to provide your FFL dealer's information, including their license number and contact details. Your FFL dealer can usually email their license copy directly to the seller.
Step 3 – Seller Ships to FFL Dealer
The seller ships the firearm directly to your chosen FFL dealer's licensed address — not to your home. The dealer will receive the firearm and log it into their Acquisition and Disposition (A&D) bound book as required by federal law.
Step 4 – Visit the FFL Dealer
Once the firearm arrives, the dealer will contact you to come in for pickup. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport). You must appear in person — someone else cannot pick up the firearm on your behalf.
Step 5 – Complete ATF Form 4473
You will fill out ATF Form 4473, the Firearms Transaction Record. This form captures your personal information and asks questions about your eligibility to own a firearm, including questions about felony convictions, domestic violence history, drug use, and mental health adjudications. Providing false information on this form is a federal felony.
Step 6 – Pass the NICS Background Check
The FFL dealer submits your information to the FBI's National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Most checks are approved instantly. If additional review is needed, the dealer may need to wait up to 3 business days. Once approved, the transfer can proceed.
Step 7 – Pay the Transfer Fee and Take Possession
After approval, you pay the dealer's transfer fee, receive your firearm, and the transfer is complete. The dealer retains the Form 4473 for at least 20 years as required by federal law.
How Much Does an FFL Transfer Cost?
FFL transfer fees vary by dealer but typically range from $20 to $50 for a single firearm. Some dealers charge a flat fee while others may charge per gun. It is always a good idea to confirm the fee before the gun is shipped.
How Long Does an FFL Transfer Take?
Once the firearm arrives at the dealer, most transfers are completed the same day if the background check comes back approved. The entire process from purchase to pickup typically takes 3–10 business days depending on shipping and background check processing time.
FFL Transfer Tips
- Always contact the FFL dealer before shipping to confirm they will accept the transfer
- Ask for their current FFL license copy to send to the seller
- Bring a valid photo ID when picking up your firearm
- Keep a copy of your purchase receipt and tracking information
- If your background check is delayed, be patient — most delays resolve within 3 business days
Using FFLSearch.net to Find a Transfer Dealer
FFLSearch.net makes it easy to find licensed FFL dealers near you by zip code. Search for dealers who accept incoming transfers, view their contact information, and connect with a trusted local dealer for your next firearm purchase.