FFL Transfers
How much is an FFL transfer in Columbus Ohio?
Ohio Gun Authority offers firearm transfers for $35. Once your firearm arrives at our licensed FFL location, we will notify you so you can complete the required background check and paperwork before pickup.
How long does a firearm transfer take?
Most firearm transfers can be completed shortly after the firearm arrives and the required background check is approved.
Can I ship a firearm directly to Ohio Gun Authority?
Yes. If you purchase a firearm online, the seller can ship the firearm directly to our licensed FFL location. We will notify you when it arrives so you can complete the required paperwork.
What do I need to bring when picking up my firearm?
Customers must bring a valid, non-expired government-issued photo ID with their current address. If your ID does not show your current address, you must bring a secondary proof of residency such as a vehicle registration or utility bill.
What happens if my background check is denied?
All firearm transfers require a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). If the background check is denied, the transfer cannot be completed. The transfer fee still applies and the customer is responsible for any return shipping costs required to send the firearm back to the seller.
What are the age requirements for firearm transfers?
Customers must be at least 21 years old to receive handguns or receivers and at least 18 years old to receive long guns.
Buying a Firearm
Can I buy a gun online and ship it to an FFL dealer?
Yes. Firearms purchased online must be shipped to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer where the buyer will complete the background check and paperwork before taking possession. Ohio Gun Authority is a licensed FFL dealer and can receive your firearm transfer.
Can I buy a firearm for someone else?
NO!! Purchasing a firearm on behalf of another person may be considered a straw purchase and is illegal under federal law. The person completing the purchase paperwork must be the actual buyer of the firearm.
Can I transfer a firearm to my son or daughter?
If both parties live in the same state, state laws may allow private transfers depending on local regulations. If the transfer involves residents of different states, federal law generally requires the firearm to be transferred through a licensed FFL dealer in the recipient's state.
Shipping Firearms
Can I ship a firearm to another state?
Firearms can typically be shipped to a licensed FFL dealer in another state where the recipient will complete the background check and paperwork before receiving the firearm.
Can I transfer a firearm to a family member in another state?
Can I transfer a firearm to a family member in another state?
Can I mail a firearm myself?
NO. Federal law restricts who can ship firearms. Generally, non-licensed individuals must use a common carrier and follow all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Licensed dealers (FFLs) have specific rules governing how they may ship firearms.
Identification & Residency Requirements
What ID is required to purchase or transfer a firearm?
A valid government-issued photo ID with your current address is required. If your ID does not reflect your current address, additional documentation proving residency may be required.
What documents can be used as proof of residency?
Examples include vehicle registration, utility bills, or other government-issued documents that show your name and current address.
Does my ID need to show my current address?
Yes. Federal law requires that your ID reflect your current address. If it does not, you must provide additional documentation to verify your residency before completing a firearm transfer.
Non-Residents and Visa Holders
Can non-residents purchase firearms in Ohio?
Federal law generally allows residents of other states to purchase long guns in Ohio if the transaction complies with the laws of both states.
Can non-US citizens purchase firearms?
Certain non-US citizens may legally purchase firearms if they meet federal requirements and provide the appropriate documentation.
Can someone on a visa purchase a firearm?
Non-immigrant visa holders may be able to purchase firearms if they meet certain federal requirements and exceptions.
General Firearm Questions
How does a background check work when buying a gun?
The buyer must complete ATF Form 4473 and the dealer submits the background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
Can non-US citizens purchase firearms?
Certain non-US citizens may legally purchase firearms if they meet federal requirements. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) are generally eligible. Other non-citizens may face additional restrictions depending on their immigration status.
Where is Ohio Gun Authority located?
Ohio Gun Authority serves firearm owners throughout Columbus and Central Ohio including Dublin, Westerville, Grove City, and surrounding communities.
Background Checks
What is a background check and why is it required?
A background check is conducted through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), which is required by federal law for all firearm transfers through a licensed dealer. The check helps ensure that the buyer is legally eligible to receive a firearm.
How long does a background check take?
Most background checks are completed within minutes. In some cases, the FBI may issue a delay, which can extend the process up to three business days or longer depending on the circumstances.
What happens if my background check is delayed?
If your background check is delayed, we must wait for a response from the FBI before completing the transfer. If no response is received within three business days, federal law may allow the transfer to proceed at the dealer's discretion, though Ohio Gun Authority may choose to wait for a final determination.