Find Your Nearest FFL Transfer Dealer
Every online gun purchase needs an FFL. Search 60,000+ ATF-verified FFLs plus 22,000+ gun shops and dealers — all searchable by location, instantly.
Start typing a ZIP code or city — results appear instantly. All searches are local, nothing leaves this server.
01 // ESSENTIALS
What Is an FFL Transfer?
Every online firearm purchase in the US must ship to a Federal Firearms Licensee — not to your door. Here's what that means.
How It Works
Search above, call to confirm they accept transfers, and ask about their fee. Most charge $15-75.
Give the retailer your FFL's info. They'll ship the firearm directly. Your FFL may need to send a copy of their license to the seller.
Bring valid photo ID. Fill out ATF Form 4473, pass the NICS background check, pay the transfer fee, and walk out with your firearm.
What to Bring
Typical cost: Transfer fees range $15 – $75 depending on dealer and location. Pawnbrokers often charge less. Always call ahead to confirm.
02 // LEGAL
Interstate Transfer Rules
Handguns and long guns have different rules when crossing state lines.
Handguns: Must ship to an FFL in the buyer's state of residence. No exceptions. Federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(b)(3)) prohibits selling a handgun to someone who lives in another state without going through an FFL in their home state.
Long guns (rifles & shotguns): Can be transferred by an FFL in any state, as long as the sale complies with the laws of both the buyer's and seller's states.
Ammunition: Does not require an FFL transfer in most states. Some states (California, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York) have additional requirements for ammo purchases.
03 // REFERENCE
FFL Types Explained
Not all FFLs are the same. The ATF issues several license types, each with different capabilities.
Dealer
Standard gun shop or sporting goods store with a firearms counter. Handles retail sales and incoming transfers from online purchases. The most common FFL type — and your first call when buying online.
Pawnbroker
Pawn shops licensed to deal in firearms. Often have the lowest transfer fees since transfers are a side service, not the main business. Worth calling for a quote.
Manufacturer
Licensed to manufacture firearms and ammunition. Some accept transfers, especially smaller custom shops. Can also handle NFA items with the right SOT.
04 // PROCESS
Form 4473 & the Background Check
Every transfer requires federal paperwork. Here's what to expect.
ATF Form 4473 (Firearms Transaction Record) is a federal form that every buyer fills out before receiving a firearm from an FFL. It collects your personal information, citizenship status, and asks disqualifying questions (felony convictions, restraining orders, drug use, etc.).
NICS Background Check: Your FFL submits your information to the FBI's National Instant Criminal Background Check System. Most checks return in minutes. Three possible outcomes:
Background check passed. FFL completes the transfer immediately.
Needs more review. FFL can release after 3 business days if no denial comes back.
Transfer cannot proceed. You'll receive a letter from the FBI explaining the reason. You can appeal.
Ready to Buy Online?
Browse firearms and gear from 87+ retailers with live price comparison, then ship to any FFL in our directory.