An FFL transfer is the standard process for buying a firearm from someone in another state. On American Gun Trader, you must use built-in FFL transfer — the in-chat FFL picker in your message thread. See Choosing an FFL. Sending dealer names, license numbers, or FFL photos in plain chat (unlisted FFLs) is prohibited and a common scam tactic.
- Built-in FFL transfer
- Interstate dealer coordination through the in-chat FFLs picker — search, share a card, propose, and agree. This is the required path for out-of-state deals.
- Directory FFL (listed FFL)
- Any licensed dealer from the official ATF directory that you select through the built-in FFL transfer flow. Any directory dealer is allowed — you do not need an AGT Verified account to pick them.
- AGT Verified
- An optional trust badge for dealers with an active American Gun Trader vendor account. Verified shops are recommended first in the picker and can join the 3-way transfer chat after both parties agree. It is not required for a legitimate interstate transfer.
- Unlisted FFL
- A dealer identity shared outside the picker — typed license numbers, pasted shop names, photos of FFL paperwork, or “use my FFL” in plain chat. Prohibited and a common scam pattern. See Terms §3B.
Quick steps
- Open the listing conversation and tap FFLs beside Send
- Share a dealer card or propose one — both parties must agree in chat
- Seller ships to the agreed FFL after you confirm payment terms
- You pick up at that FFL after background check
Use built-in FFL transfer (required)
Interstate deals on AGT are coordinated through the in-chat FFL picker. This is how you choose any directory FFL from the ATF import, share cards, and record agreement — not by exchanging FFL details as free text.
FFLs near seller
Dealers in the seller's state. AGT Verified FFLs are recommended first, then nearest to the seller. Choosing an FFL
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Lone Star Armory AGT Verified1200 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701(512) 555-0142 · 4.2 miFFL 1-66-003-01-00258
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Hill Country Firearms4500 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78756(512) 555-0198 · 6.8 miFFL 1-66-003-01-00412
Step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting, and what AGT records: Choosing an FFL.
Step 1: Find a receiving FFL
Pick a licensed dealer near you who accepts transfers from out-of-state. Confirm:
- Their transfer fee (typically $25-$75)
- How they want the seller to ship (some require the shipping label come from another FFL)
- Whether they need a copy of the seller's FFL or ID
Step 2: Agree on the FFL in chat
Use the FFLs button in your message thread with the seller. Pick a dealer from the list (or search), then either Share in chat for discussion or Propose for transfer to start a formal agreement. Both buyer and seller must agree before that FFL becomes your official transfer choice.
- Do not type dealer names, addresses, license numbers, or phone numbers in messages.
- Do not accept photos or PDFs of FFL licenses sent in chat — they are easy to fake.
- If someone refuses to use the FFL picker, treat it as a scam and report the user.
Full guide with screenshots: Choosing an FFL.
Step 3: Seller ships to your FFL
The seller boxes the unloaded firearm and ships to the agreed receiving FFL. Confirm that dealer accepts transfers from non-FFLs and follow their address instructions.
- Handgun: a private/common carrier that accepts firearm shipments — USPS generally cannot be used by a non-FFL to mail a handgun. (ATF Q&A)
- Rifle/shotgun: USPS is often the simplest non-FFL option when the firearm is mailable. (Postal Explorer §432)
- Federal law allows a non-FFL to ship directly to an FFL in another state. (ATF FAQ PDF)
- Notify the carrier; do not mark the outside of the package as containing a firearm. (27 CFR §478.31)
Most ground shipments take 3-7 business days. Most FFLs require a signature on delivery.
Step 4: Background check and pickup
Once the firearm arrives, your FFL calls or emails you. Go in with a valid government ID. You will:
- Fill out ATF Form 4473
- Pass the NICS background check (typically takes minutes)
- Pay the transfer fee
- Take the firearm home
If your background check delays
Most NICS checks return instantly. Some are delayed for further review and can take up to 3 business days. In some states, after the delay window expires the FFL may release the firearm; in others, they cannot. Your FFL will explain.
If you are denied
If NICS denies your transfer, you can appeal through the FBI. Your FFL will explain the process and return the firearm to the seller (you typically eat the shipping cost both ways).
Total cost
Plan on: shipping ($30-$60), receiving FFL fee ($25-$75), and the firearm itself. Some states add transfer fees or background check fees.
