FFL License Types

There are nine FFL License types in the United States, which can make it difficult for individuals or businesses involved in manufacturing, selling, or importing firearms to figure out which one is right for them.

If you don’t know what an FFL is, FFLs (Federal Firearms Licenses) ensure that firearms transactions occur legally and that licensed individuals or businesses follow federal, state, and local regulations. This post will delve into the various types of FFLs available in the United States to help you understand their purposes and requirements.

What Type of FFL License Do I Need?

When determining the type of Federal Firearms License (FFL) you need, it’s essential to consider the specific activities you intend to carry out in relation to firearms and ammunition. The FFL types range from Type 1 to Type 9, with each type tailored for different purposes, such as manufacturing, importing, or dealing with firearms. For instance, if you intend to sell firearms, a Type 1 (Dealer in Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices) or Type 2 (Pawnbroker in Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices) license might be suitable. If you’re looking to manufacture or import firearms, you’ll need a Type 7 (Manufacturer of Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices) or Type 8 (Importer of Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices) license, respectively.

It’s crucial to thoroughly research the available FFL types and consult relevant regulations to ensure you obtain the appropriate license for your intended operations. Below we explain the nine FFL license types and dive further into why your gun or ammunition business may want each type.

FFL Type 1: Dealer in Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices

Type 1 FFLs are the most common licenses, allowing licensees to buy, sell, and repair firearms other than destructive devices, such as machine guns, short-barreled shotguns, and short-barreled rifles. This type of FFL is typically held by gun shops, pawnbrokers, and online firearms retailers. Type 1 FFLs do not permit the manufacture of firearms.

FFL Type 2: Pawnbroker in Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices

Type 2 FFLs are specifically for pawnbrokers who deal in firearms other than destructive devices. This license allows pawnbrokers to take firearms as collateral for loans, sell those firearms if the loan defaults, and engage in typical firearms transactions, like a Type 1 FFL holder.

FFL Type 3: Collector of Curios and Relics

The Type 3 FFL is designed for collectors of curios and relics, which are firearms that hold particular historical, cultural, or artistic significance. These firearms must be at least 50 years old or certified by a museum curator as being of unique interest. Type 3 FFL holders can buy, sell, and transport curios and relics across state lines but cannot engage in regular commercial sales of firearms.

FFL Type 6: Manufacturer of Ammunition for Firearms

Type 6 FFLs are for businesses that manufacture ammunition for firearms, excluding armor-piercing and destructive device ammunition. This license allows the manufacturer to sell ammunition directly to the public or other companies.

FFL Type 7: Manufacturer of Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices

This license is for individuals or businesses that manufacture firearms other than destructive devices. Type 7 FFL holders can also act as dealers, selling their products directly to the public or other businesses. They are required to follow specific manufacturing regulations and safety guidelines.

FFL Type 8: Importer of Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices

Type 8 FFLs allow individuals or businesses to import firearms other than destructive devices into the United States. Importers must comply with various customs, importation, and safety regulations and are responsible for ensuring that all firearms meet the requirements for legal sale in the United States.

FFL Type 9: Dealer in Destructive Devices

Type 9 FFL holders are authorized to buy, sell, and transfer destructive devices, such as machine guns, short-barreled shotguns, short-barreled rifles, and certain explosive devices. This license also permits the holder to deal in regular firearms, like a Type 1 FFL holder.

FFL Type 10: Manufacturer of Destructive Devices

The Type 10 FFL is for individuals or businesses that manufacture destructive devices and their accompanying ammunition. Like the Type 7 FFL, this license also allows the holder to act as a dealer, selling their products directly to the public or other businesses.

FFL Type 11: Importer of Destructive Devices

Type 11 FFLs allow individuals or businesses to import destructive devices and their accompanying ammunition into the United States. Importers must comply with various customs, importation, and safety regulations and are responsible for ensuring that all destructive devices meet the requirements for legal sale in the United States. Type 11 FFL holders can also import firearms other than destructive devices, similar to a Type 8 FFL holder.

How to get an FFL

The overall regulations for getting an FFL for your business is the same, no matter which FFL license type you need.

• Be 21 or older
• Be a US citizen or legally recognized permanent resident
• Meet all requirements to own firearms and ammunition personally
• Have a location from which to conduct business that isn’t otherwise constrained by local or state laws
• Have no history of violating the Gun Control Act or other firearm-related regulations

We’ve provided a list of state-specific regulations when getting an FFL below, as state and local laws may vary. It’s always best to check with your most updated local requirements before applying.

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

What does each FFL License Type Cost?

The costs for the different FFL license types are as follows:

1. Type 1 – Dealer in Firearms (Guns, Rifles, Shotguns) Initial fee: $200 Renewal fee (every 3 years): $90
2. Type 2 – Pawnbroker in Firearms Initial fee: $200 Renewal fee (every 3 years): $90
3. Type 3 – Collector of Curios and Relics (C&R) Initial fee: $30 Renewal fee (every 3 years): $30
4. Type 6 – Manufacturer of Ammunition for Firearms Initial fee: $30 Renewal fee (every 3 years): $30
5. Type 7 – Manufacturer of Firearms & Ammunition Initial fee: $150 Renewal fee (every 3 years): $150
6. Type 8 – Importer of Firearms & Ammunition Initial fee: $150 Renewal fee (every 3 years): $150
7. Type 9 – Dealer in Destructive Devices Initial fee: $3,000 Renewal fee (every 3 years): $3,000
8. Type 10 – Manufacturer of Destructive Devices, Ammunition for Destructive Devices, or Armor-Piercing Ammunition Initial fee: $3,000 Renewal fee (every 3 years): $3,000
9. Type 11 – Importer of Destructive Devices, Ammunition for Destructive Devices, or Armor-Piercing Ammunition Initial fee: $3,000 Renewal fee (every 3 years): $3,000

It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, and you should always check the current fees with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) before applying for a license. Additionally, some states may have additional fees or requirements for obtaining an FFL license.

Apart from the FFL license fees, potential FFL holders may also need to factor in other costs, such as local business licenses, insurance, and any required security measures to comply with federal and state regulations.

Understanding the different types of Federal Firearms Licenses is crucial for anyone involved in the firearms industry in the United States. Whether you are a dealer, manufacturer, importer, or collector, obtaining the appropriate FFL is a legal requirement and ensures that you comply with federal, state, and local regulations. By familiarizing yourself with these licenses, you can make informed decisions about your involvement in the firearms market and contribute to a safer, more regulated industry.

Partnering with Zenti

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