Firearms

How to Get an FFL in New Mexico in 5 Easy Steps

A person with a hat and headphones holding a pistol sold with a New Mexico FFL.

Getting your Federal Firearms License (FFL) in New Mexico is an important step for anyone looking to enter the firearms industry. You need to get a New Mexico FFL in order to buy (for commercial purposes), manufacture, and/or import guns or ammunition in the state of New Mexico. While there may be state and local requirements, this license is federal, meaning the base requirements get set for all 50 states on a national level. Below we’ll explain what an FFL is in greater detail, as well as how to go about acquiring one in New Mexico specifically. 

Getting a New Mexico FFL: An Introduction

A little blue revolver sold with a New Mexico FFL.

An FFL, short for Federal Firearms License, is a license that allows individuals and companies to engage in the business of manufacturing and selling firearms and ammunition. The US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) administers these licenses.[1]ATF. “ATF.” September 16, 2024. 

As you read through this article, you’ll learn how to get an FFL in New Mexico, the costs of an FFL, the federal, state, and local FFL requirements, and which FFL you will need depending on your business model. Let’s dive in.

Step 1: Meet All of the FFL Requirements

If you want your FFL application to be successful, there are a series of requirements you must first meet. These requirements are three-tiered. They start at the federal level (i.e., are consistent across all 50 states). However, each state can impose its own requirements/licensing on top of the federal requirements. Local municipalities can also add their own restrictions through things like banning certain weapons or restricting retail zoning. Below, we will cover each level of requirements, so you know if you are eligible to apply for an FFL in New Mexico. 

Light blue check mark in a grey security shield.

Federal requirements 

Let’s start with the federal requirements. These include things like: 

  • You must be 21 years old
  • You must not have been convicted of a felony or any crimes related to controlled substances
  • And more.

You also need a valid location from which you will conduct your firearms business, such as a gun shop or similar place.

Orange check mark in a blue security shield.

State requirements

While the federal government issues Federal Firearms Licenses, the ATF will not approve applications that do not comply with state requirements. Thus, you must meet state requirements to obtain this federal license. 

Each state in the United States has a certain level of freedom to implement laws and licensing requirements beyond the federal standard. This autonomy allows states to cater to their unique cultures and populations, as well as providing a way of ensuring that all local taxes get collected as required. 

The state-level requirements tend to fall into one of two categories: licensing and registration. Here are New Mexico’s requirements:

State Licensing Requirements

With the second highest rate of gun ownership among US states and easily accessible gun laws, New Mexico is often referred to as one of the most “gun-friendly” states in the country. 

As such, New Mexico has not implemented any extra documentation or licensing requirements beyond the federal ones. Note: You will need to consider additional requirements if your business operates in more than one state or relocates.

State Registration Requirements

If you’re looking to open a firearms business or have an existing one that plans to operate out of New Mexico, you must register your business with the state. This is essential to be eligible for a FFL. 

To register your business in the state of New Mexico, check the requirements for business registration here.

Green check mark in a blue security shield.

Local and zoning requirements

In most parts of New Mexico, you will find very friendly local or zoning requirements (though if you were going to run into a hitch in the process, this is most commonly where you’d find it). 

Commonly, a home-based FFL faces the biggest challenges. This is more about the fact that residential neighborhoods are not zoned for retail than it is about anything else. It’s important when applying for a home-based FFL in New Mexico that you properly explain the nature of your business – namely, that a home-based FFL operates very differently than a heavy foot traffic-based business.

Step 2: Select the Type of FFL You Need

If you’re thinking of starting a business that requires an FFL, the first step is determining the type of FFL you’ll need to apply for. There are currently 9 types of FFLs, each with different restrictions. The type you select will depend on what kind of business you plan to run and where it’s located. Researching which class best fits your needs can help ensure that you submit the correct application materials and get approved quickly. Furthermore, understanding your obligations as a holder of the license can keep your business operating within the limits of legal regulations.

Light blue check mark in a grey security shield.

FFL license types 

Depending on your goals, you will need to pick an FFL that fits your business model as a gun dealer, manufacturer, or importer. Here is the full list of all 11 FFLs and their descriptions. 

Step 3: Complete an Online FFL Course

Taking an FFL course catered specifically to the laws and market in New Mexico is a great idea if you’re looking to get into the firearms industry. Not only will it teach you all of the steps to go through in order to apply for and receive your FFL license, but it also provides invaluable education on state laws, regulations, and best practices around firearms. 

While not technically a requirement, learning how to run a safe operation and stay compliant with local requirements will give you peace of mind and an edge over the competition who didn’t take a course. That’s why a course is highly recommended for any serious businessman or woman seeking to enter this booming industry.

Step 4: Apply for Your New Mexico FFL

Applying for an FFL in New Mexico requires a bit of paperwork, but the process is quite straightforward. Individuals who are interested in obtaining a Federal Firearms License must submit a completed ATF application to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It will also require you to provide things like:

Once all the paperwork has been submitted, along with fingerprints and a photograph, the ATF will conduct an interview so that founders can discuss the specifics of their proposed business (more on this next). Approved applications from New Mexico will receive their license within 60 days. 

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

The process of getting your Federal Firearm License (FFL) can feel daunting. Once the paperwork is all taken care of, you need to schedule an interview with a representative from the regional Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) office. They will send an Industry Operations Investigator (IOI) to chat with you.

This interview is a formal conversation where you will be asked questions related to your application to receive your FFL. You should also prepare to explain the laws about operating a firearm business, why you want to acquire an FFL, and what type of business you intend to open using your FFL. It’s important during the interview process that you are truthful and concise in answering any questions that may be posed. A successful interview with a representative from the local ATF office will solidify your chance of receiving your desired FFL.

FFL License Costs in New Mexico 

The ATFr regulates FFL license costs as they do the FFL requirements. The cost of an FFL can vary drastically depending on the business model you choose. Here is a full list of all 11 FFLs with their price and the cost of renewal

Getting a Federal Firearms License in New Mexico: Closing Thoughts

A blue, green, and purple rifle sold with a New Mexico FFL.

If you want to be in the firearms industry, then New Mexico is a great place to be. New Mexico is one of the most gun-friendly states in the country. That will make your business venture easier, but it also may mean that the competition is bigger. Taking steps to prepare (like reading this article) and compete in the market (like taking a course) will make your new business venture that much more successful.

Your next step after getting an FFL is to find a payment processor so you can accept payments for your business. Unfortunately, you might find this part challenging. The firearms industry is considered high-risk, making it more difficult to secure a merchant account. Fortunately, PaymentCloud is a gun-friendly credit card processor ready to take care of all your business’s needs with white glove service. Reach out today to see what we can do for you!

Have You Not Been Able to Get a Deal Approved?

Your troubles of getting approved are over!

Open a Merchant Account
98%

Approval
Rating

FFL New Mexico FAQs

Do I need an FFL in New Mexico?

If you wish to be an importer, dealer, or gun manufacturer, then yes, you will need an FFL. An FFL is a non-negotiable component of a business in the firearms industry that everyone must have. 

Who can apply for an FFL in New Mexico?

Almost any U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident who is 21 years of age (or older) with a clean background can apply for an FFL in New Mexico. As New Mexico has no additional licensing requirements for firearms, any individual who meets the federal requirements can apply. 

Do I need to register as a business to get a New Mexico FFL?

Yes. In order to run a business in the firearms industry, you must register your business in New Mexico. 

How can I find an FFL dealer in New Mexico?

Finding a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer in New Mexico is pretty straightforward. The quickest and simplest way to do this is by visiting the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’s website. Once there, you will be able to search for FFL dealers in your area by entering your city or zip code into the search filter.

Can you have a home-based FFL in New Mexico?

Yes, with New Mexico being one of the most gun-friendly states in the country, having a home-based FFL is no problem. Just work with local zoning authorities to ensure your home is properly zoned for your business. 

Can I apply for an FFL with a New Mexico gun trust?

No, you cannot apply for an FFL with a gun trust. In order to do business in the gun industry, every individual must apply for their own FFL. 

Does the BATF&E have requirements for an FFL in New Mexico?

The BATF&E (also known as the ATF) is the federal organization that sets FFL requirements, prices, and types. It has full control over all things related to FFLs. 

Do I need to apply for an SOT for my New Mexico FFL?

Most people will not need to apply to become an SOT (Special Occupancy Taxpayer). You will only need to apply to become a SOT if you plan to be involved with NFA firearms.[2]ATF. “Which firearms are regulated under the NFA?” September 16, 2024.  

How long does it take to get your FFL in New Mexico?

Once the FFL application is in, it should take no more than 60 days to process. 

How can I transfer an FFL in New Mexico?

You cannot transfer an FFL in New Mexico. Anyone who intends to be part of the firearms industry must go through their own application process. 

How much does an FFL transfer cost in New Mexico?

The cost will depend on the company you choose and the type of weapon(s) being transferred. You may pay anywhere from $10 to a few hundred.

How hard is it to get an FFL in New Mexico?

Getting an FFL in New Mexico is about as easy as it gets. New Mexico is extremely gun-friendly, making it an ideal place to start your venture in the firearms industry. 

Article Sources

  1. ATF. “ATF.” September 16, 2024.
  2. ATF. “Which firearms are regulated under the NFA?” September 16, 2024.


close icon

FREE QUOTE

By submitting this form, you consent to our terms

VeriSign Secured

Your information will not be distributed