An FFL is a Federal Firearms License. This license allows you to lawfully sell, collect and transport firearms. Federal Firearms Licenses are administered by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. According to ATF Rule 73-13 "if the business is conducted from a private dwelling, a separate portion should be designated as the business premises." The separate portion must be available to the general public and may only service clientele for the purposes of firearm sales.
Visit the ATF Distribution Center to order the required application forms. You will need Form 7 (ATF F 5310.12) and the Certification of Compliance Form (ATF F 5330.20). If you do not have Netscape or Internet Explorer 4.0 or higher you may not be able to access the order form. Call the ATF at (301) 583-4696, as an alternative to ordering the forms online.
Schedule a fingerprint card (FD-258) appointment with your local law enforcement agency. You must obtain two fingerprint cards. A fee is usually assessed for this service. Ask your local law enforcement agency what the cost is. Bring your social security card and government issued form of identification when you arrive for your appointment.
Read More: How to Complete an FFL Renewal Application
Obtain two pictures of yourself. The photographs must be 2 inches by 2 inches in size. Locations that provide passports can provide this service for you.
Fill out the two forms sent to you by the ATF completely and accurately. Incomplete applications can result in delays in processing. The normal processing time takes about 60 days.
Mail your completed application forms along with a check or money order and your fingerprint cards to the ATF. An application fee schedule is provided in the application documents. Fees vary depending on the type of license you are applying for. Your application will be forwarded to your local field office.
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms
Federal Firearms Licensing Center
244 Needy Road
Martinsburg, West Virginia, 25405
Meet with your local field office investigator at your home. The investigator will contact you upon reviewing your application to complete and interview an inspection of your home to ensure you meet all federal, state and local laws. Once complete, the investigator will notify the ATF as to their recommendation regarding your application.
Upon approval you will be issued an FFL for your home. You must apply for a separate FFL for every location you intend to do business out of.