How to Become a Federal Firearms Licensee?

How to Become a Federal Firearms Licensee FFL123

Are you interested in becoming an FFL? Have you wondered how to become an FFL? Well don’t worry, because a lot of people wonder that, and FFL123 has helped a many of them become an FFL holder! No matter if you want to run a small home-based FFL, or operate a brick and mortar gun store, or manufacture NFA devices with an SOT, we can get you the FFL you want and deserve. Interested? Keep reading…

What Do You Need To Become An FFL?

In order to become an FFL, you have to meet a simple,  yet highly complex set of regulatory and legal requirements. At the most simple level, you cannot become an FFL without being at least 21 and legally able to own firearms in the United States.

However, lots of people meet that most basic criteria, yet fail in the process of becoming an FFL. You see, getting an FFL is more than just a simple background check and paying a fee. It also requires a demonstrable knowledge of applicable laws and regulations, as well as adhering to certain zoning and location specific regulations.

In other words, if you want to become an FFL, you have to jump through a lot of hoops! 

The Process of Becoming an FFL

As with any Federal license, becoming an FFL requires filling out a bunch of paperwork. However, any reasonably intelligent person can fill that out on their own. That much isn’t a big deal, but you will need to get it done, along with getting a set of fingerprints to send with your application.

After you fill out your application, you need to do some homework. What are the zoning regulations for the location you want? Home based FFL’s have real problems with this sometimes and it can make or break becoming an FFL.

You need to understand local and state laws governing firearms sales too. Do you need additional state licenses or training? Are there mandated procedures you have to follow that exceed what Federal law requires? All this is important because part of the process of becoming an FFL involves an examination with a local ATF agent who will quiz you and inspect your proposed location to ensure everything is or will be in line with all applicable regulations and laws.

This means if you want to become an FFL, then you need somebody on your side who can coach and offer expert guidance on everything it takes to get your FFL. Fortunately for you, FFL123 is on your side, and wants you to get your FFL. We’ll talk more about the FFL123 advantage in a minute, but first, lets look at some common pitfalls you might encounter along the way. 

Problems with Becoming an FFL

We’ve hinted at some of the biggest issues you can have when becoming an FFL. These are regulatory compliance and zoning issues.

While the ATF has a pretty basic set of regulations, they can be somewhat complex depending on the kind of FFL you are getting and what kind of business you are running. A home based FFL will have fewer things to worry about than somebody building NFA devices for law enforcement sales. In each case though, you must demonstrate understanding of Federal laws and regulations, along with any state or local laws that apply. Some states have some very strict regulations they require FFL’s to follow and if you cannot demonstrate to your ATF examiner that you are or will be in compliance with those, along with applicable Federal regulations, you cannot become an FFL.

Zoning can be another nightmare for people becoming an FFL. While brick and mortar stores or light manufacturing are usually easy to locate, home-based FFL’s often struggle with zoning. Most jurisdictions allow for some form of light retail or commercial activity in residential areas. However, in some places that is either poorly understood when applicable to FFL’s or FFL’s are met with outright hostility from anti-gun zoning commissions or clerks. 

It is important that you understand all this ahead of time, because you’ll have to demonstrate knowledge and an ability to actually operate your business to the ATF. If anything from zoning to your knowledge isn’t perfect, you cannot become an FFL.

The FFL123 Advantage 

FFL123 was founded by business leader Brandon Maddox over 15 years ago with one simple goal in mind. To help you get the FFL  you want and deserve. Brandon has developed an industry leading team of insider experts who help our customers navigate the difficult waters of becoming an FFL.

FFL123 offers these unique benefits that all but ensure that you’ll get the FFL you want.

  • 150 percent money back guarantee – if you don’t get your FFL, we’ll take a loss on our expert online FFL course!
  • Nearly two decades experience helping people get their FFL – tens of thousands served!
  • Special member only support forums for as long as you are a customer – keep up to date with the latest developments!
  • Ongoing support even after you get your FFL. As the industry changes, we let you know so you are never left behind!
  • And much, much more!

FFL123 offers online FFL guides for both FFL and SOT licenses. In fact, our most popular online FFL course will guide you through the difficult process of getting both an FFL and an SOT at the same time.

With so much uncertainty in the world, more and more Americans are buying firearms for the first time. At the same time, the enemies of gun ownership are trying to limit our constitutional rights. With an FFL you not only can future proof your own gun collection against restrictive legislation, but will be there to make sure the people who want to buy guns can in fact get them.

The best time to start the process to become an FFL was yesterday. The next best time is right now. Check out our FFL guides and choose the one that is right for you, and let’s get you started today!

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