Are you nervous about going into a gun shop and purchasing a gun? Are you unsure what paperwork is required? In most states all you need is your photo ID (driver’s license) and to fill out the ATF’s form 4473.
Your photo ID must be current and have your full name and current address. If your address does not match or your full name is not on your ID, you will need to provide additional documentation. Your additional documentation must be government issued (i.e.. passport, vehicle registration, and the like). If you are an immigrant you may need additional documentation, that is detailed in the 4473 instructions.
Some shops will have you fill out the form 4473 on paper, while others will have you enter your information on a computer or tablet. Either way, the questions are the same.
The form starts out with the gun shop employee entering your gun’s information. Then you provide your personal and descriptive information. Followed by the qualifying questions you have to answer yes or no to ensure that you are able to purchase a gun. You will then sign and date to certify that you provide correct information.
After you present your ID and complete the 4473, the gun shop employee will submit your paperwork to the FBI NICS background check system to complete your background check. Your background check will either come back “Proceed”, “Delayed”, or “Denied”.
If you get a “Proceed,” you can take your gun home right then and there. If you get “Delayed,” the gun shop will call you after the FBI does their research and inform you as to when you can pick it up. This is typically 3 business days for those over 21 years old and 10 business days for those 18-20 years old. If you get “Denied” you are not allowed to purchase the gun.
Are you nervous about filling out the 4473 on the spot? You can review the form here. Although you cannot fill out the form ahead of time, knowing the basics of the form may help calm your nerves.
* My gun shop is in Ohio. I am not an expert on every other state’s paperwork requirements. Most gun counter employees in your state will be happy to answer any questions you have about the background check paperwork. Go into your local gun shop and ask them if your state requires anything in addition to the ATF’s Form 4473.