How to Get an FFL in Arizona in 5 Easy Steps

If you live in Arizona and have thought about getting into the firearms business, you’re in luck. Arizona is a gun-friendly state, so getting an Arizona FFL is very achievable. 

In this article, we will cover the five easy steps you will need to take to make this dream a reality. We will look at how to get an FFL in Arizona, the Arizona FFL requirements, and the FFL license costs in Arizona. 

Getting an Arizona FFL: An Introduction

First things first. What is an FFL? An FFL, or Federal Firearms License, is a license that allows an individual or business to engage in the business of manufacturing, importing, and selling firearms. Getting an Arizona FFL will be one of the first steps in starting your new business.

To obtain an FFL, an individual must apply to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.^[1]ATF. “ATF”. Accessed March 04, 2024. Along with the standard federal requirements, each state and local government can impose rules and regulations (above the federal base requirements) on the firearms industry. In Arizona, however, the regulations are lenient – the state of Arizona does not require any extra licensing. Let’s look closer at how to get an FFL in Arizona, the Arizona FFL requirements, and everything else Arizona FFL-related. Hence, you know exactly how to start your new firearms business. 

Step 1: Meet All of the FFL Requirements

As we touched on, an FFL is a federal license. As such, the federal government (through ATF) sets the base rules and regulations. These are standard for all 50 states. You will need to meet these requirements before getting an FFL in Arizona.  

Next, aspiring federal firearms licensee must examine their state and local requirements. Although the state of Arizona is lenient, you will need to pay attention to local and zoning requirements. Let’s look at all federal, state, and local Arizona FFL requirements. 

Again, all 50 states have standardized federal requirements you must meet to be eligible to get into the firearms industry. To get a federal firearms license in any state, you must have a clean record, be 21 or older, be a US citizen or legal permanent resident, etc. To see the complete list of FFL federal requirements, please click the link here.

In most states, there is a second layer of requirements that can be boiled down to two categories:

• Additional state licensing 
• Business registration 

The additional state licensing requirements, in many states, can cause the biggest headaches for FFL hopefuls when starting a firearms business. Luckily, the additional state licensing step does not apply if you live in Arizona. 

The one thing you will need to do is get a state business license. You would need a state business license regardless of your business industry. 

Like any new business, you must register with the state and local authorities. Click here for a step-by-step guide on how to set up your business in the state of Arizona.

The third layer of the puzzle is the local and zoning rules in your area. In Arizona, local and zoning requirements for your business may vary depending on the city. 

Arizona has many small rural areas with few local laws regulating the firearms industry. You should always check with your local government to ensure you abide by local laws.

As in most states, home-based FFLs typically are the hardest with zoning requirements. Depending on the location and size of the city. You’ll need to contact your local commission to understand any applicable restrictions in your area.

Step 2: Select the Type of FFL you Need

Depending on your business model, you must choose the right FFL. The type of FFL you will need depends on if you plan to manufacture, import, or sell firearms or ammunition. You can choose from nine types of FFLs, each specific to different business models. 

To see all nine types of FFLs you can choose from and the price for each, click the link here. Generally, every FFL license type is good for three years and will cost between $30 and $200 (though some more specialized license types can set you back $3,000 for the initial 3-year term). 

Step 3: Complete an Online FFL Course

Knowing the rules and regulations of the firearm industry is crucial. Ensuring you abide by federal, state, and local laws is important. Although an online FFL course is not required to become an FFL dealer in Arizona, it’s always a good idea. The firearms industry is controversial, so being fully knowledgeable and prepared is good practice. 

Step 4: Apply for Your Arizona FFL

Once you have a solid business model, have researched which FFL you need, and have completed an online FFL course (optional), it’s finally time to apply. You must pay the application fee and await a response before applying for your Arizona FFL. 

The first step ATF will take is to complete a background check on all relevant “responsible persons” attached to your business. This includes anyone listed as an owner, partner, manager, etc.

Step 5: Have an Interview with a Representative from Your Regional ATF Office

Once your application has been reviewed and your background check has been confirmed, a local Arizona office will contact you to schedule an interview. An Industry Operations Investigator (IOI) will reach out and want to further review your application with you. 

They will also be looking to ensure you have a solid business model, a safe business location, and know all Arizona rules and regulations that accompany owning a firearms business in the state. Once this interview is complete, the IOI will put together a report and recommend you for approval on your Arizona FFL application. 

FFL License Costs in Arizona 

The FFL license cost in Arizona depends on which type of FFL you are applying for. Generally, every FFL license type lasts for three years and will cost between $30 and $200 (though some specialized license types can set you back $3,000 for the initial three-year term). 

FFL costs are federally regulated, so they are the same price across the board. To see the cost of each FFL license, click the link here. It’s important to note that each license lasts three years, at which point you will apply for a renewal. 

Getting a Federal Firearms License in Arizona: Closing Thoughts

If starting a business in the firearms industry is something you’re considering, then getting an FFL in Arizona is an excellent step in that direction. Arizona is a gun-friendly state that does not create many additional hoops to jump through like other states. 

By this point, we hope you understand how to get your Arizona FFL, the Arizona FFL requirements, and the FFL license costs in Arizona. 

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