ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
Guns are very much part of American society, with the country’s constitution guaranteeing the right for US citizens to own guns. The subject of guns is a highly political topic, with some people wishing to see guns becoming more controlled while others want more freedom. In this article, we’ll delve into firearms licenses, including what they are, why you may need them, and the types of firearm licenses available.
Gun Laws And Gun Licenses In The USA
According to federal law, there is no need to hold a license to purchase or possess a gun. Individuals must be 18 or older to buy rifles and shotguns or 21 to obtain rifles, shotguns, and handguns such as pistols. However, some States have introduced more restrictive laws, and buyers need to meet the criteria of the local law where the weapon is purchased.
A firearms license certificate is in place for importers, manufacturers, and firearm dealers, and these licenses are more of a business license than a possession license. Collectors involved in firearms considered relics or curios must also obtain a firearm license.
Firearms License For Importers, Manufacturers, Dealers, And Collectors
While the law is not particularly rigorous for people wishing to buy or possess a gun, there are more strict laws in place for firearm dealers, importers, manufacturers, and collectors.
Anyone wishing to engage in the firearms business must obtain a firearms license from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and meet these conditions as follows:
- • Must be aged 21 or over,
- • Is not barred from possessing, receiving, transporting, or shipping firearms or ammunition,
- • Has not violated the regulations of the Gun control act,
- • Has a suitable premises for conducting a business involving guns and other firearms,
- • Discloses accurate information during the application process,
- • The applicant must confirm that:
- - Their type of business will not violate the gun laws of the State, city, or municipality where the premises are to be located,
- . Within 30 days of gaining the firearms license, the applicant will comply with the specific gun laws of the State, city, or municipality,
- - After receiving the firearms license, the business will not commence until the State, city, or municipality gun laws are met.
Firearms Licenses For Dealers
Dealers will include anyone selling firearms through retail or wholesale, repairing guns, or fitting trigger mechanisms, barrels, or stocks. Pawnbrokers who take firearms as security for the repayment of loans will also need a gun license.
As part of the application, firearms dealers must certify they can provide a secure gun storage and safety device facility where the business will be conducted. There are 3 types of firearms licenses available for dealers; you can find more about them on the ATF website here.
Firearms Licenses For Manufacturers
Anyone in the trade or business of manufacturing ammunition or firearms must obtain a firearms license. The costs involved and the permission for these licenses are listed on the ATF website.
Firearms License For Importers
A firearms importer is classified as anyone bringing firearms to the United States to trade. There are several licenses available for firearms importers, which can be found here.
Collector’s Firearms License
A collector firearms license is required for anyone who holds, acquires, or disposes of firearms classified as relics or curios. The license costs $30; it must be renewed every 3 years. Through this license, the holder can acquire relics or curios in any State and transport them back to their own State. The license also enables the holder to trade, sell, or transfer these types of weapons to others.
The Application Process
People seeking a firearms license must complete The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Form 7/7CR. When completing the application form, the person must provide:
- • Their personal details (such as name, address, telephone number),
- • The type of firearms license sought,
- • Payment details,
- • Social Security Number,
- • Citizenship status (need to be US citizen or permanent US resident),
- • 2 passport photos,
- • Fingerprint cards.
Anyone wishing to receive help with the application or any other inquiries can contact ATF by email at [email protected] or by telephone at 1-866-662-2750.
After The Application Submission
After receiving the application and the fee processing, the ATF will run a background check on the applicant. If the background check is satisfactory, the person will undergo an interview with an Industry Operations Investigator (IOI). Based on the interview, the IOI will make a recommendation. The ATF will then write to the applicant to let them know the outcome. The whole process takes 60 days to complete.
Gun Laws In The United States
In the United States, a firearms license is only required for importers, manufacturers, dealers, and collectors of old relic weapons. Anyone else is largely free to purchase without much in the way of paperwork or a gun registration. Businesses who need a firearms license must complete an application and undergo a rigorous interview process before they are granted a license.