Want to know how to get a Texas FFL? Texas is one of the largest gun markets in the United States and also one of the largest markets for NFA items in the country. That means it's a good place to get an FFL and even aTOE class 3to make NFA items like silencers or short barreled shotguns. However, getting your Texas FFL is more than just filling out some confusing forms and submitting them to the ATF.
You must first convince the feds that you are operating a business and can legally do so. That means there are all kinds of hurdles you have to overcome at the federal, state, and even local levels. The type of FFL you are applying to makes a difference, as does where you intend to operate.
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For example, you will likely have a hard time getting approval for a Build 07 FFL in your suburban garage due to zoning issues. So let's take a look at the basic requirements for your Texas FFL and some zoning tips while we're at it, so you can start earning your Texas FFL!
Still wondering how to get your Texas FFL?
Are you overwhelmed by the seemingly strict government regulations and confusing laws and rules about being an FFL in Texas? Don't worry, you are not alone!
Everything is bigger in Texas. there is anbatchof gun owners in Texas, and how theJune 2021, it should come as no surprise that Texas ranks first in the nation for states with the most FFLs. exist11.164their! While the Texas government can be kind to gun owners and companies, the same cannot always be said of the federal government. This means you have to tread carefully when getting your Texas FFL and make sure you have all your ducks in a row to get in and stay in business.
That's where we come in. FFL123 is here to make sure you get the Texas FFL you want and deserve!
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Do you need an FFL in Texas?
The very simple answer is: yes. If you plan on running a business that deals in firearms, you must have an FFL. This is not a state requirement but a federal requirement. By the way…
federal requirements
To qualify for an FFL, you must first be legally able to obtain one. This means that some general conditions must apply before the ATF will review your application more closely. In general, you must meet the following criteria before even thinking about applying to a Texas FFL.
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Be a US citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Not be convicted of any felony or misdemeanor of domestic violence.
- Not be a user of illicit drugs (including marijuana)
- He was never dishonorably discharged from the US Armed Forces.
- There are no outstanding warrants.
- No pending criminal charges.
Basically, if you can legally own a gun and are over the age of 21, you meet most of the requirements to get a Texas FFL right away. However, there is more to making it to the Texas FFL than simply being a law-abiding American. You must also convince the ATF examiner that you can legally conduct the type of business you wish to operate in your chosen location and that you are familiar with federal, state, and local laws related to the sale (or manufacture) of guns.
You also need to show that you can operate the business in your chosen location, and that means having or being able to obtain a local license for the type of business you want to run.
In a nutshell, the ATF has pretty basic requirements for getting an FFL. So basic, in fact, that we'll just take a look at them.
To obtain an FFL, the ATF requires you to be a law-abiding US citizen or permanent resident over the age of 21 who can legally possess a firearm. Pretty simple stuff, actually. The paperwork is tedious and you have to show that you plan on operating a business, but it's not too difficult.
state requirements
Once you've met the federal requirements, it's time to make sure you meet the state requirements below.
Texas does not require FFL holders to obtain a redundant arms dealer license at the state level. This greatly simplifies how to get a Texas FFL and makes it easier to get into the business. Many states still require this additional license, so be glad Texas doesn't.
You still need to be a registered business or corporation to have a Texas FFL, but this is very easy and involves filling out a few forms and paying a fee. Local business license personnel can assist you with this process. But there are still local issues to resolve...
Do I need to register as a business for an FFL in Texas?
Yes, you must be registered with the state as some type of business to obtain an FFL in Texas. While there are no state-level gun dealer licenses in Texas, you still need to have a successful license in the state and local area where you are doing business. You must also operate in an appropriately zoned area that matches the type of business you are conducting.
First, you must obtain a state business license. This is a fairly simple and even automatic process as long as you pay the license fees. Now is a good time to decide whether you are setting up as a corporation or not. We suggest doing business as an LLC or other corporation to limit personal liability.
Next, it's time to get your local business licenses. Cities and counties may also require a business license. Again, this must be well cut and dried.
Make sure you are properly zoned for the type of business you intend to do. In most places, a home-based FFL should be possible. Type 07 FFLs that dabble in more than the lightest manufacturing are unlikely to be possible in residential areas.
local requirements
All businesses must operate in zoned locations for the type of business. That's why you won't see an industrial manufacturing process in a residential neighborhood or light retail in the middle of a heavy manufacturing area. The ATF requires FFL holders to be able to operate their chosen type of business at the location they list as an address.
In most cases, this isn't an issue, especially if you're operating a traditional FFL store. Since Texas is pro-gun even in the biggest cities, you won't have much trouble opening a gun store in a zoned retail location. This means there will be little to no local effort to limit gun store openings and your biggest problem will simply be finding a location you like.
However, if, like many FFL123 customers, you are interested in running a small home FFL, you may face some zoning issues. This is where many people have the most problems with their FFL apps and where many fail.
Most residential areas allow light retail activities with the proper permit. If you live in an HOA with restrictive covenants, you may not be able to engage in any type of business activity. Check your bylaws to be sure, as they vary from HOA to HOA. Outside of HOAs, you'll need to check with local licensing departments what their specific rules are for retail operations in a residential neighborhood.
The ATF often closely scrutinizes home-based FFLs. Rarely are "appointment only" hours long enough to get approved. Instead, the ATF prefers that you have some posted business hours, even if it's just one day a week or a few hours a day. But don't worry, FFL123 customers receive one-on-one assistance on this and much more when preparing their FFL application.
Texas is a very big state, and luckily, almost everything is pro-gun. That's not to say, however, that you can't have a few minor mishaps with local authorities. Still, this shouldn't be a big problem and should be resolved quite easily.
If, for whatever reason, you encounter a problem,FFL123 is here to help🇧🇷 Our members have access to private forums with other FFL Distributors like you, as well as member-only resources to help you navigate these waters.
How much does a Texas FFL cost?
Federally, it costs between $30 and $200 to obtain an FFL for the first three years. The cost of each type of license varies depending on the different responsibilities that allow the licensee to carry out. There are different types of licenses to sell some weapons instead of handling or crafting NFA items.
There are also other costs associated with Texas state and local licenses. Due to the wide variety of locations and their different policies and procedures, it is best to check directly with your local government to find out how much they charge for business licenses, etc.
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Additional Business Resources
Starting a Business in Texas: The Texas Economic Development website is packed with information to help you establish yourself as a business there.
How to Become a Federal Firearms Licensee in 10 Easy Steps: This is the ATF's own guide to getting your FFL.
US Code § 923: United States Federal Code § 923 covers regulations for the import, manufacture, and trade of firearms and ammunition. This is the law that requires firearms companies to obtain an FFL.
US CFR § 478.47 - Issuance of a License: This explains how a federal firearms license is issued, including who must assign the license number. It requires the ATF to qualify applicants based on a predetermined list of requirements and issue federal firearms licenses. If a successful FFL application has been filed, the Chief of the Federal Firearms Licensing Center must issue the license and assign a serial number to the licensee.
Gun Control Act (GCA): The 1968 GCA established stricter laws regarding the firearms industry than were already present in the 1934 NFA. This included new regulations on firearms crimes, sale of firearms/ammunition to "prohibited persons" and federal jurisdiction for "destructive devices" (bombs). , grenades, mines, etc.) These are just some of the things that were created with GCA.
The FFL123 Advantage
Indeed, we would like a world where any law-abiding American could easily get into the arms business. But we don't live in that world. We know this, as do our team of industry experts and legal experts. FFL123 has assembled a team dedicated to helping our clients navigate the bureaucracy of obtaining an FFL.
By purchasing an FFL123 guide, you are not just purchasing a complete step-by-step guide to applying for an FFL. You also get decades of combined industry experience and the right to be there when you need it most.
Each FFL123 customer is entitled to direct, individualized customer support for their specific issues in obtaining an FFL. We specialize in helping people understand and navigate complex local zoning issues, as this is where most of the trouble getting your Texas FFL will occur.
In other words, when you do business with FFL123, we've got your back until you receive your FFL. In fact, we go further and continue to support you while you're in business. Our customers get ongoing support for everything from finding suppliers to staying abreast of the latest changes in gun laws and regulations.
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With just a few clicks, you can start your journey to the Texas FFL today. Rest easy knowing you're not lost in confusing federal and state paperwork, or left alone figuring out how to fill out and submit seemingly conflicting forms. FFL123 is here for you throughout your journey, from choosing the FFL that's right for you, to your first day on the job and everything in between.
Are you ready to get your Texas FFL?choose the guidethat's right for you. Not sure which one you need? No problem! Just ask and we'll help you with that too. What are you waiting for? The sooner you start, the sooner you can enjoy the full benefits of an FFL!
conclusion
If you want to know how to get your Texas FFL thenbuy a guide FFL123is the place to start. We're so confident in our process that we have a 150% money-back guarantee that you'll get the FFL you ordered or we'll lose money on the deal!
FFL123 customers enjoy exclusive, hands-on guidance from industry experts throughout the entire process of obtaining their Texas FFL. And we didn't stop there. FFL123 provides ongoing personal help for as long as you have your FFL. We have members-only forums where you can get answers to your questions, and regular industry news updates so you can stay on top of things like industry trends, ATF rule changes, and other related material.
If you're ready to win your Texas FFL, we're here to help! For decades, the FFL123 has been the number one choice for people looking to get the FFL they want and deserve. We've helped thousands of Americans like you. Choose the best guide andstarts today!
Texas gun dealers
Find latest list of Texas gun dealer name, email id, phone number and address. You can easily communicate with arms dealers.Click here to view Class 3 Gun Dealers in Texas.
FAQs
How hard is it to get a FFL in Texas? ›
You still have to be a registered business or corporation to have a Texas FFL, but that's pretty easy and largely involves filling out a couple forms and paying a fee. Your local business licensing folks can help you with that process.
Which FFL is easiest to get? ›A Type 03 FFL is the easiest to get, it's a collector of curios and relics. A Type 03 FFL is not a license to deal firearms, but to have Curios and Relics transferred and shipped directly to their home. It's the most restrictive FFL, but the easiest to acquire.
Can you have a home based FFL in Texas? ›The answer, of course, is yes! As we've already said, you can have an FFL without a traditional business location as long as you follow local zoning laws, don't use the FFL primarily for personal use, and otherwise comply with the same laws and rules other FFLs have to follow.
What is FFL fee in Texas? ›FFL License Cost in Texas
If you get a Type 01 FFL, the most popular license type, to buy and sell guns as a firearm dealer and/or be a gunsmith, it will cost $200 for the first three years and then only $90 for every three-year license renewal thereafter.
This is beneficial to not only serious collectors, but also to gun buyers just looking to save money. Having an FFL allows you to take advantage of internet flash sales and deals on auction sites. You won't lose whatever money you saved in transfer fees because you can have it shipped directly to your home.
Is being an FFL profitable? ›Since all online sales other than antiques require an FFL to do a background check, those required transfers are a lucrative way to make money with an FFL. Otherwise, the same basic rules for inventory apply. New guns have lower margins than used guns, and accessories and ammo can be a good source of profit.
What is the most common FFL? ›The Type 01 FFL is the most common license type. If you are a gunsmith, this is all the license you need. If you want to buy and sell non-NFA firearms, this license will get you started in the gun business. However, the Type 01 FFL also comes with some limitations.
What state has the most FFLs? ›| State | FFLs In Total (June 2021) |
|---|---|
| California | 8,878 |
| Florida | 7,285 |
| Pennsylvania | 6,279 |
| Virginia | 4,107 |
A separate federal firearms license must be obtained for each location. However, separate facilities solely to store firearms are not required to be covered by a separate license, although the records maintained at the licensed premises must reflect all firearms held in the separate storage facility.
Can a FFL use USPS? ›Yes. Licensees may mail an unloaded handgun to another licensee in customary trade shipments. Handguns may also be mailed to any officer, employee, agent, or watchman who is eligible under 18 U.S.C.
Can FFL transfer out of state? ›
The transfer of a firearm across state lines must be done through a Federal Firearm Licensee (FFL) if you want to gift a firearm to someone outside of your home state. This is because federal law is going to govern any transaction that occurs across state lines.
Do I need a FFL to buy a gun in Texas? ›There are nopermits or licenses required to purchase guns in the state of Texas. However, there are age restrictions. You will need to be age 21 or over in order to purchase a handgun and at least 18 in order to purchase a rifle or other long arm.
What is a Class 3 firearms license Texas? ›A: A “Class 3 License” allows firearm dealers (FFLs) to sell NFA Firearms like silencers and machine guns without paying a per item transfer tax.
Do I need an FFL transfer in Texas? ›This started with the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA), firearms that travel interstate (across state lines) must be transferred using a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL). This is true even if the purchaser has a handgun or firearm permit.
What is a FFL used for? ›The Federal Firearms License (FFL) allows individuals to engage in business related to the manufacture of ammunition or firearms or the interstate or intrastate sale of firearms.
What is a responsible person on an FFL? ›Español. Federal explosives laws define a "responsible person" as an individual who has the power to direct the management and policies of the applicant pertaining to explosive materials. Responsible persons generally include sole proprietors and explosives facility site managers.
Can a non US citizen get FFL? ›Federal Requirements in California (CA)
To get an FFL, the ATF requires that you basically be a law-abiding US citizen or a permanent resident over 21 years of age who can legally own a firearm.
To get an FFL in Pennsylvania you have to do the same basic things anyone has to do in any state. That means you have to meet a few simple requirements that all FFL holders have to meet. Be over 21 years old. Not be convicted of any felonies or disqualifying misdemeanors.
What can you do with a Type 7 FFL? ›The Type 7 FFL, sometimes called a “manufacturer's license” is in our opinion the best all around FFL for anyone to get. Only an 07 FFL can manufacture any sort of non NFA firearm, but with an 02 SOT they can even make NFA items including dealer sample machine guns!
Can I sell ammo with a Type 6 FFL? ›Type 6: Manufacturer of Ammunition for Firearms
It does not allow any business activity with firearms, and they may not manufacture ammunition for destructive devices or armor-piercing ammunition.
What is the most pro gun state? ›
Summary. The most gun friendly state in the United States is Arizona. The least gun friendly state in the United States is Delaware.
How often do FFLS get audited? ›As a federal firearms licensee, you're bound to get audited by the ATF at some point. The Gun Control Act permits inspections that are at least twelve months apart, but truthfully, they only happen every few years. The goal of the audit is more benign than most expect.
What state buys guns the most? ›| State / Territory | Totals |
|---|---|
| Arizona | 476,845 |
| Arkansas | 235,715 |
| California | 1,238,099 |
| Colorado | 525,295 |
FFLs who are dealers or pawnbrokers must report to ATF whenever they sell or transfer two or more such weapons to the same person at one time or during any five consecutive business days. The federal reporting requirements have helped ATF combat gun trafficking.
How many names can be on an FFL? ›There are a few stipulations on the multiple trade names. The ATF's licensing database only has space for fifty characters in its trade name field. Therefore, you will need to keep that in mind when choosing your trade names.
What is an 07 FFL? ›The Type 07 FFL (Federal Firearms License) is one of three licenses issued to those businesses that manufacture firearms, ammo, or destructive devices. A Type 06 FFL is the license that a firearms business needs to manufacture ammunition, except ammo for destructive devices or any type of armor-piercing ammo.
Does USPS know if you ship a gun? ›However, it is illegal to ship any firearm to a non-FFL in another state. The carrier must be notified that the shipment contains a firearm, however, carriers are prohibited from requiring any identifying marks on the package which may be used to identify the contents as containing a firearm.
Does USPS check for guns? ›The Postal Service may require the mailer to open parcels containing firearms or air guns or give written certification that the weapon is unloaded and not concealable. Short-barreled rifles or shotguns that can be concealed on the person are nonmailable.
Can I ship a gun with ammo in USPS? ›Just remember, you cannot ship any firearm or ammunition through the United States Postal Service (USPS). Shipping ammunition via FedEx or shipping ammo via UPS are both very similar processes with similar restrictions.
Can you carry a gun across state lines? ›Per federal law 18 USC § 926A, every U.S. citizen may legally transport firearms across state lines as long as he or she is legally allowed to possess the weapons in both the state of origin as well as the destination.
Can I fill out Form 4473 at home? ›
Can I fill out Form 4473 at home? ATF provides a free downloadable program called eForm 4473 to help you quickly and easily complete Forms 4473 on your computer.
Can a NY resident buy a long gun out of state? ›It is lawful for New York residents to purchase or obtain rifles or shotguns in a contiguous state and to receive and transport said rifles and shotguns into the state, provided the person is otherwise eligible to possess a rifle or shotgun under New York law.
Can I carry my gun on my property in Texas? ›Banning Guns on Private Property
As of September 1st, 2021, HB 1927 removed the requirement to have a “license to carry” in order to carry a handgun in Texas. However, private properties such as restaurants and businesses can still prohibit the carry of firearms on the property if they choose.
The Texas Motorist Protection Act (HB 1815), effective as of September 1, 2007, permits any law-abiding Texas resident the legal right to carry a handgun inside their motor vehicle in Texas without a Handgun License to Carry or any other permit.
Can I carry a loaded gun in my car in Texas without a license? ›The Texas Motorist Protection Act Governs Carrying Guns in Cars. This is the act that specifically addresses guns in your vehicle in Texas. In a nutshell, it states a legal driver and gun owner doesn't need a license or permit in the Lone Star State to carry a firearm in a vehicle, whether the gun is loaded or not.
What is a class 5 weapon? ›Class 5 weapons are the strongest weapons you can mount after reaching Bretonia space following the completion of Mission 4. Class 5 weapons are also the second-strongest weapons you can mount before completing the Single Player Plot.
What is a Class 1 weapon? ›Common Title 1 guns are ones that have bolt actions, lever actions, pump actions, semi automatic actions, and break or hinge actions. Fully automatic actions are specifically Title 2 firearms, more commonly called Class 3.
Is an AR 15 a Class 3 firearm? ›If you are interested in or own a Class 3 firearm like the popular AR-15, you're going to want the best accessories. Our selection of Suppressors and Silencers are in stock at affordable prices.
Can I gift my dad a gun in Texas? ›The simple answer is yes. It is perfectly legal for you to receive a firearm as a gift, so long as you are legally allowed to possess firearms.
Do you have to ship a lower receiver to an FFL? ›Keep in mind firearms and 100% lower receivers must ship to an FFL. Your local FFL will handle the transfer to your possession. Find a local/ affordable FFL dealer you would like to use and get a copy of their FFL License.
Can a Californian buy a gun in Texas? ›
You cannot buy guns out-of-state and carry them home. You cannot buy privately out-of-state and carry them home, even if private sales are legal in X state. You may not purchase ammo out-of-state and bring it back to California.
What is a Class 2 manufacturer? ›A Class 2 SOT Firearm License – Manufacturers of NFA Firearms. A Class 2 SOT License permits a licensee to engage in the business of manufacturing NFA firearms. It us used in conjunction with a Type 07 FFL or a Type 10 FFL.
What are FFL items? ›There are some products that require Brownells to have a Federal Firearms License (FFL) on file in order to ship. These items have a serial number stamped on them and are regulated by the BATF. Regulated items are firearms, receivers (Lower & Barreled), frames, actions, and suppressors.
How many FFL dealers are in the US? ›...
Number of federal firearm dealers in the United States from 1975 to 2020.
| Characteristic | Number of federal firearm dealers |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 53,924 |
| 2018 | 55,891 |
| 2017 | 56,638 |
| 2016 | 56,754 |
How long does it take to get your FFL in California? After submitting a completed Federal Firearms License application, you should receive your FFL within 60 days of the submission date.
What is the most common FFL License? ›The Type 01 FFL is the most common license type. If you are a gunsmith, this is all the license you need. If you want to buy and sell non-NFA firearms, this license will get you started in the gun business. However, the Type 01 FFL also comes with some limitations.
How many FFL dealers are in Texas? ›| State | FFLs In Total (June 2021) |
|---|---|
| SC (South Carolina) | 2,157 |
| SD (South Dakota) | 783 |
| TN (Tennessee) | 3,152 |
| TX (Texas) | 11,164 |
As a federal firearms licensee, you're bound to get audited by the ATF at some point. The Gun Control Act permits inspections that are at least twelve months apart, but truthfully, they only happen every few years. The goal of the audit is more benign than most expect.
How long does ATF approval take? ›ATF Form 4 Wait Times
Right now, expect any form 4 application to take between about 250-370 days to process and an e-filed Form 1 to take about a month. Some Form 1 users have reported even faster turnaround times of just a couple weeks, but that is the exception rather than the rule.
average time for your approved tax stamp to arrive at your SOT dealer (the executer if applying using the ATF Form 5) is 1 to 2 weeks. However, it could take up to 30 days for your SOT dealer (the executer if applying using the ATF Form 5) to receive your physical tax stamp.
Can an FFL have 2 locations? ›
No. A separate federal firearms license must be obtained for each location.
What is a Class 10 weapon? ›Class 10 weapons are the highest class of weapons in the game. They cannot be bought from any battleship, planet or base, but rather found from various locations over the Sirius sector.
Who are the largest gun distributors? ›- AMMO, Inc. ...
- Springfield Armory, Inc. ...
- Savage Arms. ...
- O.F. Mossberg & Sons. ...
- Colt's Manufacturing Company. 2021 annual revenue: $270.9 million. ...
- American Outdoor Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ:AOUT) ...
- Heckler and Koch. 2021 annual revenue: €290.2 million. ...
- Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. (NYSE:RGR)
...
Gun Ownership by State 2022.
| State | Gun Ownership | Registered Guns |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | 46.30% | 179,738 |
| New Mexico | 46.20% | 97,580 |
| North Carolina | 45.80% | 152,238 |
| Texas | 45.70% | 588,696 |