How to Obtain and Maintain Your FFL in Virginia

‍As a gun enthusiast and business owner, you probably understand the importance of obtaining and maintaining a Federal Firearms License (FFL) in Virginia. Not only does it allow you to sell firearms legally, it also allows you to expand your business and reach a wider customer base. In this article, we’ll discuss obtaining and maintaining an FFL in Virginia for your gun store, the requirements to do so, and the benefits of having one.

Do You Need an FFL in Virginia?

The quick answer is yes! A Federal Firearms License (or “FFL”) is a license that allows individuals or businesses to sell firearms. Obtaining an FFL in Virginia is essential if you plan to sell firearms legally. It’s also required if you plan to manufacture firearms, import firearms, or deal in firearms as a pawnbroker. Having an FFL in Virginia also allows you to buy firearms from wholesalers and sell them to customers in-store and online.

What are the Benefits of Having an FFL in Virginia?

Having an FFL in Virginia can provide numerous benefits for both individuals and business owners. Not only does it allow you to conduct all firearms sales legally, it also allows you to expand your business by offering your customers a wider selection of firearms, accessories, and services.

Having an FFL in Virginia also allows you to purchase firearms from wholesalers and sell them to customers, both in-store and online, and you can legally import firearms from other countries for these commercial purposes. This can increase your sales potential and provide additional revenue streams for your business. Talk to a Zenti sales representative today if you’re considering selling firearms at your store or online - we can accommodate both!

What Type of FFL Do I Need in Virginia?

The process of obtaining an FFL in Virginia can be a bit overwhelming, but it’s essential to follow the steps correctly to ensure that everything goes smoothly. The first step is to determine which type of FFL you need. Different types of FFLs allow your business to offer other services, such as manufacturing firearms. There are nine different types of FFLs, but the most common type for firearm dealers in Virginia is the Type 01 FFL.

Once you’ve determined the type of FFL you need, you must complete the application process. The application for an FFL in Virginia is completed through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). The application is called ATF Form 7, and it requires detailed information about yourself and your business. Keep reading to understand the application process and what it entails.

What are the Requirements for Obtaining an FFL in Virginia?

To obtain an FFL in Virginia, there are specific requirements that you must meet.

Meet the minimum age requirements

Firstly, you must be at least 21 years old and not prohibited from possessing firearms.

Meet location and zoning requirements

You must have a business license in place and be registered at the state and local levels. You also need to have a physical location for your business, and it must meet specific zoning requirements.

Comply with state and local laws

Additionally, you must comply with all state and local laws regarding firearms sales and possess a valid state business license.

Pass a background check

Another requirement for obtaining an FFL in Virginia is passing a background check. The ATF will conduct a thorough background check on all of its applicants, including fingerprinting and a review of criminal history records. It’s important to note that any criminal history may disqualify you from obtaining an FFL in Virginia.

How Much Does it Cost to Get an FFL License in Virgina?

The cost of obtaining an FFL in Virginia varies depending on the type of license you wish to acquire. Three of the more common types of FFL licenses in Virginia are type 01, Type 03, and Type 07.

As of 2021, the application fee for a Type 01 FFL is $200 for the first three years. This license type is for dealers in firearms other than destructive devices. The cost of renewing this license is $90 every three years thereafter.

If you’re applying for a Type 03 FFL the application fee is $30 for the first three years. This type is for collectors of Curios and Relics firearms, with a $30 renewal fee every three years.

Finally, if you’re applying for a Type 07 FFL the application fee is $150 for the first three years. This FFL types is for manufacturers of firearms and ammunition, with a $150 renewal fee every three years.

Additionally, you may incur additional costs for fingerprinting, background checks, and any other state or local requirements.

How to Become an FFL Dealer in Virginia

Once you’ve determined the type of FFL you need, there are two finally steps needed to get your license.

Step one: complete your ATF paperwork

The first step is to complete the ATF Form 7. The form can be downloaded online and requires detailed information about yourself. This includes your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, citizenship status, and fingerprints. It also requires information about the business, such as the location and type of business and hours of operation. Additionally, the form asks for details about previous business operations, criminal history, and mental health history.

Step two: complete your ATF interview

After submitting the application, an ATF field officer will contact you to schedule an interview. The interview is conducted to ensure that you meet all the requirements and that your business premises meet all the necessary zoning requirements. During the interview, the ATF field officer can also answer any questions you may have regarding the application process. A background check will be conducted at this time as well. If successful, the ATF will issue your FFL.

What are the Legal Requirements for Selling a Gun in Virginia?

Once you’ve obtained your FFL in Virginia, you can now begin selling firearms legally. To sell a gun in Virginia with an FFL, you must comply with all state and federal laws regarding firearms sales.

For example, it’s illegal to sell firearms to individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms, such as people with felony convictions or individuals with a history of domestic violence. It’s also illegal to sell firearms to individuals who don’t have a valid Virginia driver’s license or identification card. It’s recommended that you familiarize yourself with all local and state gun laws before selling firearms.

Conducting background checks on your purchaser

It’s illegal to sell firearms to individuals who don’t meet the necessary requirements to purchase firearms, so conducting a background check on all potential buyers is a very important step in the process. To conduct a background check in Virginia, you can start by searching the central registry to determine if the person has ever been the subject of a founded complaint in Virginia, such as child abuse or neglect. You can also obtain a basic report which includes national criminal history, identity verification, and a sex offender search for $19.95 per report plus a one-time set-up fee. The scope of the background check will depend on the purpose of the inquiry, as there are different types of background checks that can be conducted in Virginia.

Maintaining records of sales

You must also maintain a record of all firearms transactions, which includes information about the firearm and the purchaser. This record helps law enforcement agencies (like the ATF) to trace firearms used in crimes and to identify potential suspects. Although the State of Virginia doesn’t legally require firearms to be registered, it’s always good practice to keep a record of these sales with the Department of State Police. The registration process includes completing a firearms transaction record (commonly referred to as a “bill of sale”) and submitting it to the Department of State Police within 48 hours of the sale.

Tips for Maintaining Your FFL in Virginia

Maintaining your FFL in Virginia is necessary to ensure you can continue selling firearms legally, especially to avoid any issues with the ATF. Understanding and complying with all Virginia federal and state firearms laws and regulations is the most important tip to maintaining your FFL. The above section has specific information for selling firearms in Virginia that you should familiarize yourself with before moving forward with anything else.

Maintaining a good relationship with the ATF and complying with all their requests is also important. This includes allowing them to conduct periodic inspections of your business and providing them with any information they require. Maintain a good relationship with the ATF, as they give you the authority to sell firearms. Remember that they have the ability to revoke this privilege. It’s advised to remain on their good side to ensure continued success in this field.

Additionally, FFLs must be renewed every three years in Virginia. The renewal process involves submitting a new application to the ATF and the appropriate fees. It’s crucial to keep the license up-to-date to avoid any legal consequences because non-renewal of the FFL could result in the revocation of the license and potential criminal penalties.

Conclusion

To sell firearms legally in Virginia, obtaining and maintaining an FFL is imperative. It’s crucial to understand the process, requirements, and regulations thoroughly to avoid any complications or criminal consequences. Maintaining a good relationship with the ATF is also vital to ensure the validity of your FFL. The benefits of having an FFL in Virginia are numerous, including expanding your business and gaining credibility as a licensed dealer. Your customers will also feel secure and confident knowing they’re purchasing firearms from a reputable source. Therefore, obtaining an FFL is arguably the most necessary step to sell firearms legally in Virginia.