An FFL is a Federal Firearms License that is issued by the ATF to individuals or companies that allows them to engage in the business of firearms whether that be buy/selling (dealing), gun-smithing, manufacturing, or importing/exporting.

Although it's not a requirement, we offer an online course that helps people to set up their FFL the right way so that they're more successful during the application process and so that things are set up properly to avoid trouble later.

FFL Types

Each type of activity related to the business of firearms, and thereby requiring an FFL, can be conducted with a different license type. There are 9 different types of FFLs.

FFL License Cost

The cost for an FFL depends on which type of license you get - some FFLs, like the Type 03 collectors FFL are only $30 whereas an importer of destructive devices can be $3,000. Check out our full breakdown of FFL License Cost by type.

FFL Timing

One of the most common questions we receive is, "How long does it take to get an FFL?" Fortunately, the answer is fairly straightforward: in most cases, the process takes about 60 days.

This is because the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives) has a 60 day time-limit. to issue or deny and FFL and, wouldn't you know, the government takes as long as they can to issue a new license.

Now, your first visit from the ATF will be before that 60 day limit- we cover the initial ATF visit (and how to prepare for it) in Chapter 5 of our Get Your FFL Course.

FFL Eligibility

As long as you're not a prohibited person, you are eligible to get an FFL (even an FFL from your home).