The ATF’s Federal Firearm Regulations Reference Guide (FFRRG) has been updated for 2023! The FFLRG hasn’t been updated by the ATF since 2014, and an official copy still costs $39.95 from the federal government. RocketFFL, the leader in helping you get your FFL and stay compliant and in business once you’ve got your FFL, has […]
Among the many questions we receive, one of the most common is: “Can I get an FFL for personal use?”
Well, as a firearms attorney with years of experience working with the ATF, representing hundreds of FFLs across the country, and helping many thousands of people get their Federal Firearms License, I can give a quick answer to that question: “It depends.”
FFL for Personal Use Distinction
Let me clarify my answer above:
Yes, you can get an FFL for “personal use” in the sense that you don’t need to form a business like an LLC or Corporation and you can even have an FFL out of your home. You also can use the FFL license to get some guns at significant discount for yourself and shipped right to your front door.
However, if you mean “personal use” to mean having the FFL only for personal guns, then, no, you can’t get an FFL just for “personal use.”
You MUST have a legitimate business intent to get an FFL – it’s literally part of the FFL application. But, you can also use it for some personal guns and you don’t have to have a formal “business” formed (although we recommend it for reasons we outline in our Get Your FFL course).
So, let’s say you want to get an FFL to make some money on conducting the occasional FFL transfer and background check. If you charge for that, it can be a business intent and you can also use that FFL to add to your personal collection. But please be careful here – if not done the correct way by meeting the requirements under federal law, you could end up in SERIOUS trouble.
How to Get a Personal Use FFL License
First, as a reminder from above, although you can use an FFL to add to your personal collection, the Gun Control Act prohibits using an FFL for ONLY that purpose and regulations require a legitimate business intent.
We help you navigate that nuance to stay out of trouble in our Get Your FFL course.
Time needed: 60 days
Personal Use FFL License Steps
- Take the RocketFFL Get Your FFL Course
Although the course is not necessary, it will help you make the proper decisions throughout the process and ensure that you set up your FFL the right way to avoid trouble later. You can check out the course here.
- Make sure you meet the FFL requirements (personally, for your business, and location)
Believe it or not, this can be the biggest stumbling block for most people looking to get their FFL. Only do this on your own if you’re 100% sure you know what you’re doing (or are willing to risk everything based on something you found on Reddit).
- Select the Correct FFL License Type
Depending on what activity you want to engage in as an ffl holder, you will need a different FFL type. You can learn more in our article on FFL License Types
- Establish business / administrative sections
You’ll need to set up certain things PRIOR to getting your application sent off to the ATF. This is true even if you’re going to be a home based FFL.
- Complete and Submit FFL License Application
Our course walks you through each step of the application and helps you put your two packets together (yes, two – only one goes to the ATF).
- Pass Initial ATF Inspection
An ATF inspector will come meet with you at your location to interview you and make the final decision on your FFL. Many people stress about this but, as our reviews show, people that take the RocketFFL course are absolutely prepared (and often complimented on their preparedness and knowledge by the ATF).
Once everything is complete, you’ll officially be part of the firearms industry as a licensed FFL dealer or firearms manufacturer.
Welcome!
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