ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GETTING YOUR

FEDERAL
FIREARMS
LICENSE
BY RYAN CLECKNER

ROCKETFFL.COM © 2022
What's Inside
A brief guide to help you get your Federal Firearms License in ANY state

So, you’re considering getting an FFL but aren’t sure where to start or even if it’s right for
you?

Don’t worry!

Those are perfectly normal questions and this guide is going to answer those questions
and give you the information you need to be successful.

In this Ultimate Guide to Getting Your FFL we’re going to cover:

Steps to getting your FFL
Which FFL Type is Right for You
How Much an FFL Costs
How to Work with NFA firearms (silencers, machine guns, etc)
FFL Myths
Frequently Asked Questions

It’s important to note that we cover each of these topics in more detail and I walk you
through everything, step-by-step, in our online course on How to Get Your FFL.

Great work downloading this guide to learn as much as you can about getting your FFL the
right way!

As a “thank you” for taking this process seriously and trusting RocketFFL to help you along
the way, I’ve included a coupon code for 20% OFF of our Get Your FFL and Become an SOT
Course Bundle. Just click the button below to get started.

Your investment is risk-free, with our 60-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not 100%
satisfied, you can get a full refund, no questions asked.

Take 20% OFF our FFL + SOT Courses

Get access to our 2 most popular courses and learn
exactly how to get your Federal Firearms License, become
a Special Occupational Taxpayer, and start making money
selling guns and suppressors.

Yes, even from home! I'll show you exactly how.

GIVE ME MY DISCOUNT

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STEPS TO GETTING AN FFL

Confirm You Meet the Individual
Requirements
Before starting the process, you need to ensure that you meet the
individual requirements for having an FFL (i.e. you are allowed to have
an FFL)

Simply, in order to qualify as an individual for an FFL, you need to be

able to lawfully possess firearms and ammunition.

That may sound simple but there is a list of requirements that some
people are unaware of. Legally, you must NOT be a “prohibited person.”

A “prohibited person” is anyone who [1]:

Is a felon,
has been convicted of any crime punishable by more than a year in
prison (whether they were ever sentenced to or served a day in
prison or not),
is under indictment for any crime punishable by more than a year in
prison,
is a fugitive,
is an unlawful user of any controlled substance,
has been adjudicated as a mental defective,
has been committed to a mental institution,
is an illegal alien,
has a dishonorable discharge from the military,
has renounced their U.S. citizenship,
is the subject of a restraining order restraining the person from
harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner or the child of
an intimate partner, or
who has been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic
violence.

More about Prohibited Persons and Firearm Posession:

https://rocketffl.com/prohibited-persons-firearm-possession/

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STEPS TO GETTING AN FFL

Confirm You Meet the Business
Requirements
Once you have confirmed that you, as a person, are eligible to be on an
FFL, you must also meet certain business requirements.

These business requirements apply whether you form an actual

business like an LLC or corporation or whether you just get the FFL in
your name as a sole proprietor. Don’t worry, we cover the pros and
cons of each and how to do this in our course.

The two main business requirements are:

1. You must have an INTENT to be engaged in the business of

making, selling, or repairing firearms.
2. You must have a business address for your FFL in an area allowed
by your local zoning requirements.

Having an intent to be engaged in selling firearms, for example, doesn’t

stop you from getting firearms for yourself. Instead, it just means, that
at a minimum, you must intend to make some money from your FFL -
whether that be the occasional transfer fee for a friend or selling a
firearm online.

Zoning is often the toughest part of getting approved but, again, don’t
worry! We have a couple tricks to get you through this process. And
don’t believe the lie that home-based FFLs aren’t allowed - in reality
MOST FFLs in this country are home-based.

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STEPS TO GETTING AN FFL

Choose FFL Type
Next, you’re going to choose which type of FFL best fits your intended
purpose.

This is typically a straight-forward decision. For example, if you want

to be a dealer or a gunsmith, you’d get the most popular type of FFL, a
Type 01 Dealer/Gunsmith FFL. And, if you want to manufacture
firearms (even making your own machine guns out of current
firearms), you would likely get the second most popular type of FFL, a
Type 07 Manufacturer’s FFL.

Of course, there are some nuances and differences in cost. If you’d like
to learn more about FFL types, please check out our article:

FFL License Types

https://rocketffl.com/ffl-license-types/

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STEPS TO GETTING AN FFL

Choose SOT Class
You’re probably getting an FFL because you love firearms. If that’s
true, you likely like NFA firearms too (silencers/suppressors, machine
guns, short barreled rifles, etc).

In order to work with NFA firearms, you’ll need to register as an Special

Occupational Taxpayer (SOT), sometimes incorrectly called a “Class 3
License.”

There are 3 SOT classes - the most common of which is Class 03 SOT
which allows an FFL dealer to purchase and sell NFA firearms. The
class of SOT you choose will depend on which type of business
activity you plan to conduct (import, make, sell) and which type of FFL
you get.

The three classes of SOT are:

Class 1 SOT - Importer of NFA Firearms
Class 2 SOT - Manufacturer of NFA Firearms
Class 3 SOT - Dealer of NFA Firearms

Learn more about Special Occupation Taxpayer Classes:

https://rocketffl.com/what-is-an-sot/

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STEPS TO GETTING AN FFL

Set up Business Properly
Your business/entity must be properly formed – i.e registered with your
state, an employer identification number (EIN) if not a sole-proprietor,
etc.

The rules for this vary from state to state and we provide
recommendations and resources for you in our course.

Get Your FFL Course:

https://rocketffl.com/courses/get-your-ffl/

ROCKETFFL.COM 06
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STEPS TO GETTING AN FFL

Complete Application(s)
Now that you have set up the foundation properly for your FFL, it’s time
to complete your application and send it off to the ATF.

The application itself is fairly straightforward, however, here’s a

warning: this is where many folks get into trouble with the ATF because
they don’t quite understand the background and requirements that go
into making the right decisions on the application.

The trouble comes either in not getting approved because the

background info wasn’t properly understood or, very likely worse, the
application is approved and the person gets into serious trouble with
the ATF later because it wasn’t set up properly.

This is where I’ve spent years as a firearms attorney representing

hundreds of FFLs across the country against the ATF. So many
problems came from not getting an FFL the right way that I made
RocketFFL.

Once you’ve gathered everything on our checklist and filled out the
application step-by-step with me, you’ll send off your application
packets.

You should be contacted by the ATF for your initial visit in 6 weeks and
have your FFL within 2 months.

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STEPS TO GETTING AN FFL

Initial ATF Visit
Before you get your FFL, and yes, you’re doing your homework so I have
faith you’re going to get it, an ATF employee is going to visit you at your
licensed location to go over your application and make sure you
understand everything that is required of you.

There are plenty of rules and regulations to follow. The ATF is going to
ensure that you understand them all at this meeting.

There is absolutely NO reason to worry about this if you’ve done your

homework and are prepared.

Learn more about setting up a home based FFL:

https://rocketffl.com/home-based-ffl/

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STEPS TO GETTING AN FFL

Day 1 With Your New FFL
Imagine 2 months into the future with me (longer if you don’t start
today): you just received your new FFL in the mail!

There are a few things you need to do on day 1 with your new FFL (for
example, don’t sign the actual license yet!). But after the initial setup,
you’ll be off and running!

It’s now time to set up accounts with distributors to get firearms at

wholesale prices and start making money with guns!

ROCKETFFL.COM 09
BUT WAIT!

NEXT STEPS
You're not on your own!

We aren’t just going to help you get your FFL and leave you on your own
to deal with the ATF.

If you decide that you’d like more ATF compliance help than the basics
you learned while getting your FFL, we offer follow-on courses in ATF
compliance for you and even your employees.

Make sure your new FFL business stays ATF compliant:

https://rocketffl.com/atf-compliance/

The main ATF compliance course for you is very in-depth and
constantly updates with new rules/regulations and best practices.

This course is for the main person running the FFL.

The employee courses, however, are meant to be taken by an employee

during their first hour on the job and are a great primer on what to
watch out for and they include a quiz that will make them a pro at
spotting errors on 4473s (you’ll learn how important these are and why
they must be error free).

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Choosing the right type of FFL

EXTRA RESOURCES
Before you start your application, you’re going to want to choose the
correct FFL type for you.

The type of FFL you choose is largely based on what you intend to do
with it and what type of firearms you intend to work with.

For example, most people get a Type 1 FFL that allows you to be a
dealer or gunsmith.

However, if you want to manufacture guns, or even if you just want to

be a gunsmith but the activity you plan to do is technically
“manufacturing” in the eyes of the ATF (e.g. assembling an AR-15 prior
to sale or cerakoting a gun prior to sale) then you’ll need to get a Type 7
FFL which is a manufacturer’s license.

And, although rare, if you want to also work with Destructive Devices or
Armor Piercing Ammunition, then a Type 7 FFL won’t do, you’ll need a
Type 10.

Make sure you’re thinking ahead here - if you might want to

manufacture guns in the future, it might make sense to get a Type 07
FFL now so that you can operate as a dealer (yes, that’s allowed) and
have the ability to be a manufacturer when you’re ready.

More about FFL License Types:

https://rocketffl.com/ffl-license-types/

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How to Work with NFA Firearms

EXTRA RESOURCES
If you’re like me, you like NFA firearms like silencers/suppressors,
machine guns, short barreled rifles, and more.

As an FFL, you can also register as an SOT which allows you to get NFA
firearms much cheaper and shipped to you in a couple days approval
time (vs waiting months as someone without an FFL).

Also, if you have a Type 07 FFL and become a Class 2 SOT, you can
convert an AR-15 into a full-auto whenever you want.

That’s right, no pre-approval from the ATF is required. This saves a TON
of money over trying to purchase a pre 1986 machine gun.

It also makes you money when you sell that machine gun to a police
department or other FFL/SOT.

Which class SOT you become depends on which type of FFL you have.
If you’re interested in also becoming an SOT, we offer a bundle where
you can get the FFL and SOT classes together and save money.

More about SOT Licenses:

https://rocketffl.com/what-is-an-sot/

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Myth #1: You can't have a home-based FFL

FFL MYTHS
Not only are you perfectly able to have a home-based FFL, the
MAJORITY of FFLs in this country are home-based!

We cover exactly how to get a home-based FFL, including working with

zoning issues, in our course.

Myth #2: If I get an FFL, the ATF can search my

home whenever they want.
The ATF is only allowed to conduct a compliance inspection of your
FFL, by law, once every 12 months.

In reality this is typically more like once every 7-10 years. And, when
they do conduct a compliance inspection, they are limited to to only
your area you have listed for your FFL and only to firearms and records
related to your FFL.

Myth #3: You have to have a full-fledged gun

shop in order to get an FFL
Although it is true that you must have a business intent, you do not
need to be a full-fledged gun dealer.

In fact, there is no minimum amount of sales that you need to conduct

or money that you need to make.

All that is required is the intent to conduct business. The occasional

transfer to friends for a small fee can count.

Myth #4: Running an FFL, including the

paperwork, is so hard and complicated that
you’ll do it wrong and end up in prison.
Yes, there are many rules to follow but they aren't that complicated. We
offer follow on courses in ATF compliance that keep you operating
smoothly.

Second, if you do get into trouble, unless you are doing something really
egregious, the worst case is usually losing the license (not jail).

Myth #5: You can’t use your FFL for personal

firearms.
You can absolutely use your FFL for personal firearms. The only rule is
that you can’t use it ONLY for personal firearms.

ROCKETFFL.COM 13
FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: How do I get an FFL?
Honestly, it’s not that hard. You can fill out the application (ATF Form
7), gather the required information (fingerprints, photos, business info),
and send it off to the ATF and your CLEO on your own. If that’s not the
worst sales-pitch ever, I don’t know what is!

RocketFFL is here to make sure that you get it done right, including
making all the best choices for your FFL, throughout the process.
We simply want to help you get your firearms business up and running
quickly, and efficiently!

Q: How Long Does it Take to Get an FFL?

It takes two months to get an FFL. However, there are some details that
matter – you can learn more about them here: How Long Does it Take
to Get an FFL?

Q: How much does an FFL cost?

The most common type of FFL, a Type 01 firearm dealer’s license,
costs $200 for the first three years and $90 for each three year renewal
thereafter.

Other FFL types cost different amounts. For example, a manufacturer’s

FFL (a Type 07 FFL) only costs $150 for the first three years, but the
price is the same for each three year renewal.

If you’d like to learn more about this, check out our article on FFL
License Cost.

Q: How much does RocketFFL cost?

Our introductory course, the Get Your FFL course, costs $49.95.

However, most FFLs also like to work with NFA firearms (a very popular
reason for getting an FFL). You can learn how to do this with our

Become an SOT course for $39.95. But, if you purchase the FFL/SOT
start-up courses bundle, the SOT course is only $9.95.

We also offer follow-on training for employees, and even an ATF

Compliance membership for operational FFLs. You can learn more
about these on our courses page.

ROCKETFFL.COM 14
FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Can I get an FFL at my home?
Yes. Contrary to what you may find elsewhere online, the ATF allows
home-based FFLs!

In fact, there are more home-based FFLs in this country than there are
storefront/brick-and-mortar businesses.

To learn more about this, check out Getting Your FFL at Home.

Q: Does having a home-based FFL give

the ATF the right to come into my house
whenever they want?
Absolutely not!

You are not giving any rights up by getting a federal license. Just like
getting a driver’s license doesn’t make you give up any rights, neither
does getting a firearms license. However, it does mean you have to
follow certain rules.

Yes, the ATF will be able to inspect your licensed location to ensure you
have an accurate inventory and records. However, the ATF is only
allowed to inspect once every 12 months.
Typically, the ATF only inspects every 5-7 years.

Q: Which type of FFL should I get?

Well, that depends.

If you’re interested in buying and selling guns only, it’s likely that a Type
01 FFL for dealers and gunsmiths is right for you. This is, by far, the
most popular type of FFL.

However, if you’d like to also manufacture firearms, you should look at

the Type 07 FFL.

Don’t worry – you don’t need to make the decision now. We walk you
through each FFL type in our Get Your FFL Course.

Also, if you want to work with NFA firearms like silencers, machine
guns, short barreled rifles, and more, you’re going to want to also
become an SOT. You can get our FFL and SOT course at bundle pricing.

ROCKETFFL.COM 15
FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Why should I use RocketFFL?
You should use RocketFFL if you want to take the confusion out of the
FFL licensing process and set up your FFL the right way to avoid
troubles later.

But why RocketFFL instead of another option? We’re glad you asked.
RocketFFL was created by Ryan Cleckner, an actual firearms attorney
with experience representing hundreds of FFLs across the country.

Ryan is also a true gun-guy and member of the firearms industry. He

was a special-operations sniper, he’s been an industry executive, and he
loves to teach, whether that be through RocketFFL, through his work as
a constitutional law university professor, or through his books, training
videos, and in-person long-range training events.

Also, if you sign up for RocketFFL and don’t think it’s helpful, use our 60-
day no questions asked money-back guarantee.

285+ Reviews See Course Information

"Lots of great knowledge. "This course is amazing, I

Provides all the tools you need learned so much in a short
to get your FFL and start period of time that I had no
working in the industry." idea about."
Andrew M. Marvin M.

"Very good information. I feel "Course content is very well

more confident about the explained. Highly recommend
entire process now." RocketFFL."
Thomas W. Robert G.

"Love the format and ease of "Followed instructions exactly,

access to the materials. Well initial inspection with ATF went
put together and easy to track very well and got our FFL right
progress." on time."
Brian G. Roger D.

ROCKETFFL.COM 16
HI! I'M

RYAN CLECKNER
Firearms Attorney, Veteran Army Ranger Sniper, and your guide to starting an FFL

I’ve been very fortunate - I’ve made an exciting living out of the firearms industry.
Sure, firearms could have just been my hobby (something I spend money on) but I
have been able to turn my passion into my profession and make money with
firearms.

I’m here to help you do the same thing by starting off with your own Federal Firearms
License (FFL).

Whether you’d like to have a full-fledged business/career in firearms or whether you’d

simply like to save a ton of money on guns and only make some extra side income,
I’d like to share a bit about my journey with firearms as a business and where it has
taken me to help you imagine what your journey in the firearms industry could be like.

After serving as a special operations sniper in the military and later as a sniper
instructor, I went to law school and started working at the firearms industry’s trade
association (National Shooting Sports Foundation - NSSF) as an intern which then
turned into a full-time job.

There, I managed federal government relations for the industry where I dealt often
with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), lawmakers in
Congress, and FFLs all across the country. While at the NSSF, I started making videos
about long range shooting and even appeared on History Channel’s Top Shot as an
expert for two seasons.

Next, I moved on to Remington Outdoor Company as a Vice President where I

oversaw legal issues and ATF compliance. A few years later I left and wrote my first
book about firearms, the Long Range Shooting Handbook, and I started working as
an attorney for a law firm representing hundreds of FFLs across the country and
helping them get out of trouble (and stay out of trouble) with the ATF.

I then started RocketFFL to help people get their FFL the right way and stay out of
trouble with the ATF so they wouldn’t need to hire me as a lawyer later.

Since then I have continued to write books and articles about firearms, create
instructional videos, own and operate websites like GunUniversity.com, and
occasionally appear as a guest on national television shows as a firearms law expert.

I am so thankful for what I have been able to do by pursuing my passion as a career. I

hope that you’re even half as excited as I am to see where the firearms industry takes
you!

ROCKETFFL.COM 17
 NEED HELP SETTING UP YOUR FFL THE RIGHT WAY?

Get Your Federal

Firearms License
Our FFL guide is the easiest way
to get your FFL, and is taught by a
professional instructor and
experienced firearms attorney, so
we can guarantee you’ll be doing
everything by the book.

GET YOUR FFL

What You Get:

Federal Firearms License start-up course
Dozens of hours of instruction, including videos in every lesson
Guidance from start-to-finish including types, costs, business structure, and location
Sample forms, step-by-step instructions, and an application packet checklist
In-depth breakdown of manufacturing, ITAR, the State Dept., and DDTC registration
Access to our members-only networking community

Become a Special
Occupational Taxpayer
Our SOT start-up guide is the easiest
way to get your FFL and is taught by
a professional instructor and
experienced firearms attorney, so we
can guarantee you’ll be doing
everything by the book.

BECOME A CLASS 3 SOT

What You Get:

Special Occupational Taxpayer start-up course
Step-by-step guidance for the registration process
A brief overview of NFA compliance
Access to our members-only networking community