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How to Get a C&R FFL

Nine types of Federal Firearms Licenses exist. One of those is the Type 3 Federal Firearms License or FFL, which is for collectors of curio and relic firearms. Curio and relic firearms must fit into one of three categories: the firearm was manufactured 50 years prior to the current date, the firearm is certified by the curator of a museum or the majority of the firearm’s value comes from the fact that it is rare or associated with some historical figure or event. You apply for a Curio and Relic or C&R FFL through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Things You'll Need

ATF Form 7CR
Fingerprints
$30

Instructions

- 1
  Ensure you meet the requirements for a Federal Firearms License. You must be at least 21 years old, not have any imprisonments of more than one year, be a legal resident of the United States, have no illegal drug addictions and no restraining orders against you.
- 2
  Request a Form 7CR from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). You can request the form online by using the ATF’s Distribution Center Order Form or by calling the Distribution Center at (703) 455-7801.
- 3
  Wait for the ATF to send your packet and proper fingerprint cards. It may take several weeks to receive your application packet.
- 4
  Fill out the application which includes your personal information and information on any criminal history. You also must include the name, address and phone number for the chief law enforcement officer (police chief or sheriff) in your area. If you choose to pay the $30 license fee by credit card, fill out that area as well.
- 5
  Get your fingerprint card filled out by an authorized agency. Usually, you can go to the police or sheriff’s department for fingerprints. Fees for fingerprinting vary from agency to agency.
- 6
  Obtain a check or money order for $30 made out to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives unless you are paying by credit card. Include your social security number on the check or money order.
- 7
  Mail the completed application and $30 to the ATF at the address on the application. You also need to drop off or mail a copy of the application to your local chief law enforcement officer. After she has reviewed your application and completed a background check, the ATF will notify you in four to six weeks if you are approved for your C&R FFL.

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