FFL License Types Explained: Type 01, 03, 07, and More
The ATF issues multiple types of Federal Firearms Licenses (FFL) depending on what type of firearms business you intend to operate. Understanding the differences between FFL license types is essential whether you want to open a gun store, start manufacturing, collect firearms, or simply perform transfer services.
FFL Type 01 – Dealer in Firearms
The most common FFL type. A Type 01 license allows you to buy and sell firearms and perform gunsmithing services. Most commercial gun stores, online retailers, and home-based dealers operate under a Type 01 license.
- Application fee: $200 (first 3 years)
- Renewal fee: $90 every 3 years
- Can sell handguns, rifles, and shotguns
- Can perform gunsmithing repairs
- Cannot manufacture firearms for commercial sale
- With SOT (Special Occupational Taxpayer) Class 3 registration: can deal in NFA items
FFL Type 02 – Pawnbroker in Firearms
Identical in authority to a Type 01 but specifically designed for pawnbroker operations that accept and sell firearms as part of their business.
- Application fee: $200 (first 3 years)
- Renewal fee: $90 every 3 years
FFL Type 03 – Collector of Curios and Relics (C&R)
A Type 03 is not a commercial dealer license. It is specifically for collectors of firearms that qualify as Curios and Relics (C&R) — generally firearms manufactured 50 or more years ago or those officially recognized by the ATF as C&R items.
- Application fee: $30 (first 3 years)
- Renewal fee: $30 every 3 years
- Can receive qualifying C&R firearms directly by mail without going through a dealer
- Cannot commercially buy and sell firearms
- No fingerprints or photographs required
FFL Type 06 – Manufacturer of Ammunition
Allows the licensee to manufacture ammunition for commercial sale but not firearms themselves.
- Application fee: $30 (first 3 years)
- Renewal fee: $30 every 3 years
FFL Type 07 – Manufacturer of Firearms
A Type 07 license allows the manufacture of firearms for commercial sale in addition to all privileges of a Type 01 dealer. This is a popular choice for gunsmiths who want to build and sell complete firearms.
- Application fee: $150 (first 3 years)
- Renewal fee: $150 every 3 years
- Can manufacture firearms for commercial sale
- Can buy and sell firearms (all Type 01 privileges)
- With SOT Class 2 registration: can manufacture NFA items including suppressors and short-barreled rifles
FFL Type 08 – Importer of Firearms
Authorizes the importation of firearms and ammunition from foreign countries for commercial distribution in the United States.
- Application fee: $150 (first 3 years)
- Renewal fee: $150 every 3 years
- With SOT Class 1 registration: can import NFA items
FFL Types 09, 10, and 11 – Destructive Devices
These licenses are for dealing in, manufacturing, or importing destructive devices such as grenades, rockets, and large-bore weapons. These require significant compliance infrastructure and are rarely held by private individuals.
- Application fee: $3,000 (first 3 years)
- Renewal fee: $3,000 every 3 years
Which FFL Type Should You Get?
For most people looking to run a gun store or home-based transfer business, a Type 01 is the right choice. If you also want to build and sell firearms or manufacture suppressors, a Type 07 with SOT registration is the better option.
For pure collectors interested in historical firearms, a Type 03 C&R license provides affordable direct access to qualifying firearms.
FFL License Summary Table
Type 01: Dealer - $200 application / $90 renewal
Type 02: Pawnbroker - $200 application / $90 renewal
Type 03: Collector (C&R) - $30 application / $30 renewal
Type 06: Ammo Manufacturer - $30 application / $30 renewal
Type 07: Firearms Manufacturer - $150 application / $150 renewal
Type 08: Importer - $150 application / $150 renewal
Type 09/10/11: Destructive Devices - $3,000 application / $3,000 renewal
Find FFL Dealers Near You
FFLSearch.net lists licensed dealers across the country. Whether you are looking for a Type 01 dealer to handle your transfer or a specialized gunsmith with a Type 07 license, FFLSearch.net can help you find the right licensed professional near you.