How often does ATF audit FFL?

The law allows ATF to conduct one warrantless inspection of your inventory and some specific records every 12 months for the purpose of ensuring compliance with the record-keeping requirements of the Gun Control Act, the NFA, and ATF regulations.

How often are FFL audited?

As a federal firearms licensee, you’re bound to get audited by the ATF at some point. The Gun Control Act permits inspections that are at least twelve months apart, but truthfully, they only happen every few years.

What is an FFL inspection?

With certain exceptions, the GCA allows ATF to conduct one warrantless, annual compliance inspection of a federal firearms licensee (FFL). The purpose of the inspection program is to educate the licensee about regulatory responsibilities and to evaluate the level of compliance.

Can you lose your FFL?

There is a separate process for federal explosives licensees and permittees (FEL/FEPs). ATF will also take action to revoke the license of an FFL that knowingly engages in a criminal violation of the federal firearms laws.

What is an ATF violation?

Violations commonly cited in revocation cases include failure to account for firearms, failure to verify and document purchaser eligibility, failure to maintain records requisite for successful firearms tracing, and failure to report multiple sales of handguns.

What does ATF look for?

ATF recognizes the role that firearms play in violent crimes and pursues an integrated regulatory and enforcement strategy. Investigative priorities focus on armed violent offenders and career criminals, narcotics traffickers, narco-terrorists, violent gangs, and domestic and international arms traffickers.

What happens during an ATF inspection of a FFL?

“When violations of the law and regulations are disclosed during an inspection, a Report of Violations is issued to the licensee that outlines the discrepancy and the requirements for corrective action. ATF also works to gain cooperation and compliance from FFLs by issuing warning letters and holding warning conferences.

What do you need to know about the ATF?

“ The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), pursuant to the Gun Control Act (GCA) and the Federal firearms regulations, is responsible for licensing persons engaging in a firearms business. With certain exceptions, the GCA allows ATF to conduct one warrantless, annual compliance inspection of a federal firearms licensee (FFL).

What are the common mistakes in an ATF audit?

The most common mistakes are failure to verify the buyer’s eligibility to own a firearm, inability to account for firearms that were received or disposed, failure to report sales of multiple handguns, failure to document firearms transfers, and failure to properly record transactions to ensure each firearm can be traced.

Why do FFLs have to comply with the GCA?

FFLs must comply with the federal firearms laws and implementing regulations, including the Gun Control Act (GCA) and the National Firearms Act (NFA). These statutes and regulations are designed to protect the public from the criminal use of firearms.