Type 11 FFL — Destructive Devices Importer

The Type 11 is the importer license for destructive devices, ammunition for destructive devices and armor-piercing ammunition. It is the narrowest and most heavily scrutinized license category.

Updated 2026-08-10

What It Allows

A Type 11 licensee may import destructive devices and their ammunition, and may deal in what it imports. The fee is $1,000 per year, three years at a time.

Permits And Tax Status

Every importation still needs an approved ATF Form 6 permit before shipment and a Form 6A after entry. Importing NFA destructive devices also requires Class 1 SOT registration on ATF Form 5630.7, and imports are generally limited to government, law-enforcement, research or demonstration purposes rather than the commercial market.

Who Actually Uses It

Type 11 holders are typically defense contractors, government suppliers and specialized testing operations. Ordinary retail applicants almost never need it.

Fees, forms and processing rules change through ATF rulemaking. Confirm current requirements with ATF and your state and local authorities before you file.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I import a destructive device for my personal collection?
No. Importation of destructive devices is restricted to narrow authorized purposes and is not permitted for personal acquisition.
Is a Type 08 enough to import a destructive device?
No. Destructive devices require the Type 11 importer license plus SOT registration.

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Educational content only. FFL Elite is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Verify all requirements with ATF and your state and local authorities.