FFL Application Checklist

ATF Form 7 (5310.12) — Application for Federal Firearms LicenseComplete every part for a Type 01 license. Unsigned or incomplete forms are returned.
ATF Form 7 Part B — Responsible Person QuestionnaireOne Part B per responsible person. You listed 1.
FD-258 fingerprint cards (1)Original cards for every responsible person — no photocopies, no smudges.
2" x 2" photographs (1)Taken within the last 6 months, one per responsible person.
License fee paymentCheck, money order, or credit-card authorization for the license type you selected.
CLEO notification copySend a copy of the completed Form 7 to your Chief Law Enforcement Officer at the same time you mail ATF.

Business premises documentationLease, deed, or ownership proof for the exact address on the application.
Zoning approval or written determinationConfirmation from your city/county that firearms business activity is permitted at the premises.
Local business licenseCity and/or county business license for the address on your Form 7.
State firearms dealer / retailer license (where required)Several states require their own license before or shortly after federal approval.
Home occupation permitPlus landlord or HOA written permission if applicable.
Secure storage plan for the residenceWhere inventory and records live, and how the premises area is defined.

EIN (Employer Identification Number)Free from the IRS; required for most entities and useful even as a sole proprietor.
Articles of organization / incorporationFiled and stamped copy of your entity formation documents.
Operating agreement / bylawsIdentifies the responsible persons ATF will vet.

A&D bound book or approved electronic recordkeepingMust be ready to use on day one — acquisitions get recorded by the next business day.
ATF Form 4473 supplyOrder or download current-revision 4473s before you open.
NICS enrollmentEnroll with the FBI NICS E-Check or your state point of contact after approval.

ATF in-person interview preparationReview the ATF acknowledgement of federal firearms regulations (ATF F 5300.14) items an investigator will walk through.

Your Application