Gun dealers must register with ATF.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) oversees the regulation of the firearms industry in the United States. One of its primary missions is providing guidance on federal firearms regulations. ATF oversees the licensing requirements for a Federal Firearms License (FFL). The FFL is for individuals or companies engaged in the business of selling or manufacturing firearms.
ATF also plays a law-enforcement role in reducing violent crime resulting from the illegal use of firearms. It works in partnership with the firearms industry to reduce firearm-related crime.
Instructions
1. Satisfy the background requirements for the FFL. The applicant must be over 21 years old and be a U.S. citizen. The applicant cannot suffer from a mental illness or be a drug abuser. If the applicant served in the military, he must have an honorable discharge. An individual who was the subject of a court restraining order is disqualified. The applicant must have no prior record of federal firearms violations.
2. Research Pennsylvania laws and local ordinances that may require additional licenses or permits for firearms licenses.
3. Verify that the type of business you intend to conduct is not prohibited under Pennsylvania law.
4. Comply with local ordinances and Pennsylvania laws that may affect the conduct of the business within 30 days of approval of your FFL license. Zoning regulations are specific and will differ based on the location of the business.
5. Download the application forms from the ATF website.
6. Refrain from operating until the business becomes compliant with all Pennsylvania laws.
7. Acquire and maintain secure storage and safety devices for any firearms that will be sold on the business's premises.
8. Complete the application. Take a 2 by 2 passport photo and take the fingerprint card to the local police for fingerprinting.
9. Mail all the application materials to the ATF. Include the appropriate fee for the license. Deliver one copy to the chief of police in the Pennsylvania town where the business will operate.
