If you are interested in selling one of your firearms across state lines, then you’ll need an FFL (Federal Firearms License) transfer. This requirement harkens back to the Gun Control Act of 1968. (For in-state sales or gifts, you may not need an FFL transfer; just make sure to check your state’s regulations on that).
If someone wants to buy a gun from you online, then you have to send the firearm to an FFL dealer in their state where they can then pick up the gun. In order to begin a transfer, you have to contact an FFL dealer, like us here at Aegis Cerakote.
Many gun shops and gun dealers have a Federal Firearms License (over 136,000 in the US), and that’s who you need to seek out when you’re ready to sell one of your firearms. Basically, you’re selling your gun to the buyer with two gun shops or dealers with FFL licenses who act as the go-between, connecting you and your buyer with each other.
What are the Common Misconceptions about FFL Transfers
FFL Transfers Are Not a Type of Gun Registration
First on the list is the idea that FFL transfers are a type of gun registration. Not true. An FFL Transfer is simply the process where one Federal Firearms Licensee transfers a firearm to another Federal Firearms Licensee. During the transfer, some information is exchanged like make, model, and serial number, and the name and address of the transferee, but this is not gun registration.
FFL Transfers Are Not Exclusive to Businesses
Some folks think that transfers are exclusive to businesses. This is also not true. Any individual can request an FFL transfer if they are interested in purchasing a firearm from an out-of-state dealer or if they want to sell a firearm to an out-of-state buyer. In these types of situations, you have to use a licensed firearms dealer to perform the transfer.
You Always Have to Have an FFL Transfer to Purchase a Gun Across State Lines
Another common misconception is that you always have to have an FFL transfer to purchase a gun across state lines. This is often true, but it is not always the case. This will depend on what state you are in and the firearm you are purchasing. For instance, if you attend a gun show in a different state and find a shotgun you absolutely have to have, you may not need an FFL to take it home. But be smart and diligent, and talk with a local FFL dealer, or do your research and follow state regulations.
So that wraps up a few misconceptions about FFL transfers. For firearms to be sold legally from one owner to another, there is the FFL transfer process in place to do that. Many gun shops and gun dealers do FFL transfers on a daily basis. If you would like sell a firearm or have questions, please read more about FFL transfers here on our website.