ATF Proposes Cutting Fingerprint and Photo Burdens for Firearm Applications
An ATF proposed rule would reduce fingerprint and photograph requirements for several Gun Control Act and National Firearms Act applications. It is not yet a final rule.
For individual NFA applicants using Forms 1, 4, or 5, the proposal would reduce the requirement from two fingerprint cards to one. Responsible persons for a trust or other entity using Form 23 would provide fingerprints only if ATF requested them to complete a background check. Gun Control Act license applicants, including responsible persons, would continue to submit one fingerprint set with an initial application.
Covered applicants could submit a clear copy of a valid photo identification document instead of a 2-by-2-inch passport-style photograph, although the passport-style photo would remain an option. ATF could still request one when needed. Written comments are due October 5, 2026.
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Nick Sawinyh - Nick Sawinyh is a father, husband, hobby farmer, and gun enthusiast from Kentucky. He founded GunsNation and writes most of what appears on this blog.