I'm trying to understand the regulations around Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) receiving firearms through the mail directly from individuals. Is this permissible, and if so, what are the specific legal requirements, forms, or procedures that need to be followed by both the individual shipping and the FFL receiving? Any insights or experiences would be greatly appreciated!
FFLs receiving firearms from individuals via mail
General • Asked 13 days ago by pexot
pexot
Oct 18, 2025
mefitol
Oct 26, 2025
That's a really good question and something that comes up quite a bit! My understanding, and I'm no lawyer, is that generally, an individual *cannot* directly mail a firearm (like a handgun) to an FFL in another state without going through an FFL on their end first. Long guns *might* have different rules depending on the state, but even then, it gets complicated fast.
It usually boils down to the Gun Control Act of 1968, which generally requires firearms to be transferred through an FFL in the recipient's state of residence.
Are you thinking about a specific type of firearm (handgun, rifle, shotgun) or a particular state scenario? That might help narrow down the advice!
