If you’ve ever wanted a firearm for private use, you’ve probably looked into how to get an FFL without a business. While a Federal Firearms License (FFL) is commonly required for business, there are some exceptions. It is a straightforward process to get an FFL license without a business.
You can get an FFL without a business from ATF (The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives). To get the license, you’ll need to meet the requirements first. After that, you should select your preferred FFL license type. This will be determined by how you want to use the FFL. Finally, you can get your FFL once AFT has completed a background check and reviewed your application.
Let’s take a closer look at this special license and how to obtain it.
Why You Should Get An FFL
First, an FFL license gives you the right to own and involve in the importation or sale of firearms.
Most people who apply for an FFL don’t intend to create a full-fledged firearms business. Instead, they intend to use it for private use.
Having an FFL is beneficial in that you’ll have the opportunity to sell firearms and make money from it. You’ll also save a considerable amount of money on your firearms purchases. You can purchase firearms at an FFL dealer’s price point and then sell them for a profit. In addition, you could even turn a profit by merely charging for FFL transfers.
One advantage of getting an FFL is getting access to firearms you couldn’t otherwise legally get. You can get military-grade machine guns and armor-piercing ammo.
We’ll walk you through the steps toward obtaining an FFL without a business to ensure the process is a success. We’re going to cover the basic requirements for getting an FFL. Finally, give you the following steps to getting an FFL without a business.
How to Get an FFL Without a Business: Step by Step Guide
Getting an FFL, also known as a Federal-Firearm License without a business, is easier than you might think. You get an FFL either as a sole owner or by starting a legitimate business, although neither is essential. Below, we’ll summarize the steps you need to take to get an FFL without a business.
1. Make Sure You Meet the Requirements
Just as you would with any other license application, you need to meet the requirements. Ensure you aren’t barred from getting an FFL license by the ATF.
Check to see if you can legally own a firearm or ammunition. If you can, then you’re eligible for an FFL. That said, there may be a few other requirements you’ll need to meet in order to qualify.
For example, to qualify for an FFL, you must be at least 21 years old at the time of the application. You must also be a US citizen or at least a legal permanent resident of the country.
Furthermore, you must have no prior convictions or have violated the Gun Control Act. The requirements may differ from state to state due to local laws. Be sure to do your due diligence before applying for an FFL. There are many other restrictions and regulations.
2. Choose the Correct FFL Type
The type of FFL license you select when applying will be influenced by the type of firearm you want to own or sell. For example, if you intend to be a firearm dealer, regardless of the firearm, you’ll almost certainly require a Type 1.
However, you can also get a Type 2 FFL if you want to pawn firearms. But, if you intend to sell firearms, you’ll need to get a Type 7 FFL.
Suppose you’re simply looking to own a couple of curios and Relic firearms. In this instance, you’ll simply need to get a Curio and Relics FFL. Say you want to own army-grade firearms like a silencer, you’ll need to get a Class 3 license plus the FFL.
3. Take an Online FFL Course
The actual process of getting an FFL can be time-consuming. While most of it is as straightforward as completing a form and submitting it to AFT, it can still be challenging.
The basic process is pretty straightforward. But there are several AFT rules that you’ll need to be aware of. For example, you’ll need to correctly complete the AFT form.
Yes, you can skip this section and go straight to submitting your application. In fact, most people do. However, taking an online FFL course will help you avoid making the same mistakes others make when submitting their applications.
Too many people submit their FFL applications with mistakes, resulting in delays and, in the worst-case scenario, rejection. There are a lot of companies that offer FFL online courses that cover everything you need to know to get an FFL without a business.
RocketFFL offers one of the most popular courses in the market. You’ll get actual legal advice from a firearm attorney. In addition, you’ll get some vital information from established industry experts who know everything there is to know about the firearms industry.
Some advice may only apply to specific scenarios. However, you will at the very least learn something new.
4. Submit FFL Application
Once you’ve double-checked that you meet the requirements for an FFL and chosen the correct type of FFL, you can submit your application.
This step may be time-consuming and require many forms, depending on your state or local laws. It is not quite simple as filling out an AFT form.
First, download the ATF Form 7/7CR and complete it. This is followed by an ATF Form 7/7CR Part B. Once you’ve filled in the forms and double-checked your application, you will send it to the AFT.
Ensure that you have paid the application fee in advance. Keep in mind, the application fee varies depending on your FFL type of License choice.
Once your application has been submitted, AFT will do a background check. Once they cross-check all the information, you will get an FFL license.
The Key Takeaways
It’s a frequent misconception that you can’t get an FFL unless you have a business. However, it’s entirely possible and legal to get an FFL without a business.
You can become a firearm seller without owning a firearm business with an FFL. Subject to the type of FFL license you select, you can import.
That said, you might be required you to have a registered business in some states. And you can get an FFL through ATF without a business in most states. You just need to follow the steps carefully and meet the requirements.
That’s all there is to it. These are all the steps you’ll need to determine how to obtain an FFL without the need of a business.