An FFL Dealer is a licensed entity that can legally sell, transfer, and sometimes manufacture firearms under U.S. federal law.

• FFL stands for Federal Firearms License.
• The ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives) issues FFL licenses.
• FFL dealers must comply with both federal and state regulations.

Table of Contents

• What Does FFL Mean?
• Who Needs an FFL License?
• What Is an FFL License?
• Types of FFL Dealers and Licenses
• What is an FFl Dealer?
• Buying From an FFL Dealer
• How to Get an FFL License
• FFL Licenses & NFA Items
• FAQ: FFL Meaning, License Types & Dealers

Credit: @readygunner

“FFL” is short for Federal Firearms License. Under the Gun Control Act (1968), any business engaged in the firearms trade must hold an FFL license to sell, transfer, or manufacture firearms. Regierung's license types define specific roles and permissions.

• Any business selling firearms as a trade or business must have one.
• Individuals buying for personal use do not need an FFL.
• Transferring or selling firearms repeatedly as a business without an FFL is illegal under statute.

An FFL License is a legal permit issued by the ATF that authorizes holders to operate in various roles in the firearms industry. The license defines the scope of permissible duties: selling, manufacturing, importing, or dealing in specific firearms or accessories.

Each license has unique requirements, fees, and restrictions.

Credit: @uncoiledrange

An FFL Dealer is any business operating under an FFL that handles firearm transactions. Their core activities include:

• Selling & transferring firearms legally
• Maintaining APD (Acquisition & Disposition) records
• Conducting NICS background checks
• Submitting to ATF inspections
• Complying with zoning, age, and state restriction

Credit: @whitebircharmory

When you purchase a firearm or suppressor from an FFL Dealer:

1. You choose your item, and the dealer transfers it legally.
2. On behalf of the buyer, they conduct a background check.
3. Transfer paperwork (e.g., ATF Form 4473) is completed.
4. You may wait, depending on state laws.
5. You receive your item from the FFL once cleared.

Gun laws vary by state: some require a waiting period, permits, or licenses. For example, in Texas, there is often no waiting period; in New York, additional steps may apply.

To become a licensed FFL:

1. Submit an application to the ATF with your business information.
2. Pay the applicable application fee.
3. Pass background, zoning, and compliance checks.
4. Provide fingerprints and photographs.
5. Maintain records and abide by inspections.

Once approved, you’ll receive a license allowing you to legally engage in firearms commerce as defined by your FFL type.

Some FFLs also operate as Class 3 / SOT (Special Occupational Tax) dealers. These may handle NFA-regulated items like suppressors, SBRs, etc.

1. A Class 3 dealer requires both an FFL and SOT registration.
2. NFA rules often require a $200 tax stamp, Form 4 transfers, and registry with ATF.
3. Silencer Shop partners closely with FFL/SOTs to ensure smooth, legal suppressor transfers.

What does FFL stand for?

FFL stands for Federal Firearms License, issued by the ATF to authorize lawful firearm commerce.

What are the types of FFL licenses?

There are 9 core types (01, 02, 03, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, others). Most users refer to Types 01, 03, 07, and importer types.

Do I need an FFL to buy a gun?

No. Private individuals don’t need an FFL to purchase firearms for personal use.

What is a Class 3 FFL / SOT dealer?

Class 3 dealers are FFL holders who also pay a Special Occupational Tax (SOT) to deal in NFA-regulated items like suppressors.

How do I find a local FFL dealer?

Use Silencer Shop’s FFL Locator tool to find verified dealers in your area who handle firearm transfers and suppressors.