When an individual buys a gun from an FFL dealer, federal gun laws require said dealer to run a background check on the buyer. The process of an FFL transfer is dependent on this background check, as prospective buyers who do not pass will not be eligible to proceed with the transfer. That said, the five steps listed below comprise the process of an FFL transfer.
First, the FFL holder verifies that the gun is legally eligible for transfer to the buyer.
The buyer fills out an ATF Form 4473. This form asks for basic information about the buyer, including their name, address, and date of birth.
Next, the FFL dealer from whom the buyer is purchasing runs a background check on the buyer through either the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) or their state’s background check system.
If the background check comes back with a “clear” result, the FFL dealer moves on to Step 5. However, if the background check comes back with a “delay” or “proceed” result, the FFL dealer must wait three days, at which point the NICS delivers its final decision. If NICS does not render a decision within three days, the FFL dealer may move on to Step 5.
After completing any paperwork necessary to finalize the transaction, the buyer pays for the gun. At this point, the FFL holder transfers the gun to the buyer. The FFL transfer is complete!