Yes. Under the federal Brady Law, only persons who meet certain requirements are allowed to be licensed as firearms dealers. Firearms dealers include persons who are:

  • Engaged in the business of selling firearms at wholesale or retail
  • Engaged in the business of repairing firearms or firearm parts
  • Pawnbrokers

What Are the Requirements for Obtaining a Dealer’s License?

In order to be licensed as a firearms dealer, a person must apply to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (BATF). BATF will approve an application for a person who:

  • Is at least 21 years old
  • Disclosed all material information on the application
  • Did not falsify any information on the application
  • Has a place to operate the firearms business
  • Certifies that the business location complies with all applicable zoning laws
  • Certifies that the person will comply with all applicable laws for conducting the business within 30 days of being licensed
  • Informs the local chief of law enforcement that the person intends to conduct business as a federally licensed firearms dealer at the stated location

What Are the Conditions of Being a Federally Licensed Dealer?

Federally licensed firearms dealers must follow numerous conditions in operating their business. Some of these conditions include the following:

Dealers are also required to refuse to sell firearms to the following persons:

  • Persons whom the dealer has reason to believe is under the legal age to possess and purchase a firearm
  • Persons who fail the background check
  • Persons who do not live in the state where the dealer is located
  • Persons who do not purchase the firearm in person

Do I Need an Attorney?

Violations of federal firearms laws are serious and can include criminal penalties. If you are a firearms dealer, or considering applying to be one, it would be wise to speak to a criminal law attorney about all applicable laws in your area, or to secure representation in the event you are charged with a federal violation.