How to Get an FFL in Texas in 5 Easy Steps

To legally sell firearms in Texas, you must obtain an FFL in Texas. And considering that U.S. gun sales continue to soar past pre-pandemic figures, there has never been a better time to sell firearms. This is particularly true of the firearms market in Texas, as the Lone Star state is home to the most registered weapons in the country. As previously stated, before legally selling guns in Texas, you must acquire a Texas FFL. Obtaining a Federal Firearms License (FFL) may feel like a monumental task.

Fortunately, this article walks you through the entire process of getting an FFL in Texas!

Getting a Texas FFL: An Introduction

A Federal Firearms License (FFL) is a government-issued license authorizing an individual or business to manufacture, import/export, or sell firearms in their business operations. Federal Firearms Licensees must comply with federal, state, and local laws regarding the manufacture, import/export, and sale of firearms.

Note: The acronym “FFL” may refer to a Federal Firearms License or a Federal Firearms Licensee.

Step 1: Meet All of the FFL Requirements

To obtain an FFL in Texas, you must meet the federal, state, and local requirements. You can find these requirements below.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) regulates Federal Firearms Licenses at the federal level. These eligibility requirements do not vary by state, though states may enforce additional requirements. These state-issued requirements, as well as local and zoning requirements, result in variations of the FFL process by location.

Beyond federal requirements, Texas’ only prerequisite is that you must register as a business in the state. As such, if you meet the federal requirements to obtain an FFL in Texas, you also meet the state requirements to get an FFL in Texas.

Many states require an additional license known as a state-level gun dealer license. Texas has no such requirement, making it easier to start a firearms business in the state.

​​In Texas, there are zoning restrictions with which firearms businesses must comply. For example, your business premises must be in a location not zoned for residential use. You must also display appropriate signage and lighting and make your business accessible to law enforcement.

As with any business, it’s essential to research all applicable local and zoning requirements. Doing so can ensure that you comply with all requirements and avoid any potential problems.

Step 2: Select the Type of FFL You Need

​​There are a few things to consider when choosing which type of Texas FFL you need:

• Type of firearms you wish to sell: If you only sell long guns, you only need a Type 01 FFL. However, if you also sell handguns, you need a Type 02 FFL.
• Your business model: Are you a brick-and-mortar store or an online retailer? Different business models may require different Federal Firearm Licenses.
• Regulations and restrictions applicable to having an FFL in Texas: There are many rules you need to follow to stay compliant. However, as long as you do your research and choose the proper license for your needs, you should be able to operate without any problems.

As per the ATF, there are nine types of Federal Firearms Licenses, which can be divided into three categories: dealer, manufacturer, and importer.

Dealer license types:

• 01 Type FFL: Dealer in Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices
• 02 Type FFL: Pawnbroker in Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices
• 09 Type FFL: Dealer in Destructive Devices
• 03 Type FFL: Collector of Curios and Relics

Manufacturer license types:

• 06 Type FFL: Manufacturer of Ammunition for Firearms Other Than Ammunition for Destructive Devices or Armor Piercing Ammunition
• 07 Type FFL: Manufacturer of Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices
• 10 Type FFL: Manufacturer of Destructive Devices, Ammunition for Destructive Devices or Armor Piercing Ammunition

Importer license types: 

• 08 Type FFL: Importer of Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices or Ammunition for Firearms Other Than Destructive Devices, or Ammunition Other Than Armor Piercing Ammunition
• 11 Type FFL: Importer of Destructive Devices, Ammunition for Destructive Devices or Armor Piercing Ammunition

Step 3: Complete an Online FFL Course

Though not officially required, we recommend that those interested in becoming an FFL in Texas complete an online FFL course. Through RocketFFL’s two-hour Federal Firearms License course, you’ll learn valuable information that every firearms business owner should possess, such as how to track inventory and what types of firearms are eligible for sale. This course also covers laws and regulations related to selling firearms, so you can be sure you’re in compliance with all federal, state, and local requirements.

Step 4: Apply for Your Texas FFL

​​To apply for your FFL in Texas, you need to submit the following paperwork to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF):

• Federal Firearms License Application: To acquire an FFL, you must submit a completed Application for Federal Firearms License.
• Form 4473: The ATF uses Form 4473 to conduct a background check on individuals wishing to purchase firearms.
• Fingerprints: Your fingerprints are necessary to conduct a criminal background check.
• Photograph: Upon approval, your photograph will be used to create your FFL license.
• Certificate of Good Standing from the Texas Secretary of State: Available from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, a completed Certificate of Good Standing is required for a Texas FFL.

Note: A Certificate of Good Standing may also be referred to as a “Certificate of Account Status.”

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

After you’ve submitted a completed application, your regional ATF office will arrange an in-person interview with you. ​​The Industry Operations Investigator aims to verify that you understand and comply with laws related to selling, importing, and manufacturing guns. They will also inspect your business location to verify compliance.

How to Get a Class 3 SOT in Texas

If you’d like to sell items regulated under the National Firearms Act, you must also obtain a Special Occupation Tax (SOT) license in addition to a Federal Firearms License.

Much like Federal Firearms Licenses, there are multiple types of Special Occupation Taxpayer licenses available. A Class 1 SOT license grants you the authority to import NFA items; a Class 2 SOT grants you the authority to manufacture NFA items; and a Class 3 SOT grants you the authority to sell NFA items. That said, you need to obtain a Class 3 SOT license if you’d like to sell NFA items at your firearms business.

To obtain a Class 3 SOT in Texas, you must submit the Special Tax Registration and Return National Firearms Act (NFA) application to the ATF. You may submit this application electronically or print it and mail it to the address listed. If you submit it electronically, you must pay the license cost (ranging from $500-$1,000) via the online portal. If you mail your application, simply include a check for the license cost in the envelope.

Upon approval, the ATF will issue you a Class 3 SOT license, granting you the authority to purchase and sell NFA items.

FFL License Costs in Texas

The cost for an FFL ranges between $30 and $3,000, depending on the type of FFL you need. The ATF sets the cost for the initial FFL and its renewal. This cost does not vary by state.

Getting a Federal Firearms License in Texas: Closing Thoughts

Obtaining a Federal Firearms License in Texas is a relatively simple process. If you meet the listed requirements, complete the necessary forms, and pay the applicable fees, you should find it rather easy to acquire your Texas FFL. In fact, you may face a bigger challenge in finding a payment processing partner. But don’t let this stress you out! By partnering with a gun-friendly merchant services provider, finding a payment processor can be even easier than obtaining your Texas FFL!

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