Getting a copy of a NICS approval…
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Loading ...By Doug Little on Mar 24, 2009 in AZ CCW Questions, CCW Administrative Rules, Federal Firearms Laws
Question: I recently filled out the form to get approval to purchase a hand gun. This was done at a reputable dealer. I did not get an immediate approval as I had a 20 year old conviction which had been set aside and all rights restored. I did get approved a day later. However, I was able to get the gun I was interested in much cheaper through a relative who put it for me at a gun show. What I would like to know is whether the dealer who has my approval to purchase is obligated to provide me with the approval number or whatever they received. I have a copy of the legal document which restored my rights but other than a CCW permit is there anything I can carry to show I am not a prohibited possessor. Thank you.
Answer: The form you filled out, the BATF 4473, is a transfer form. It is designed to be a record of the transfer of a firearm between you and the firearms dealer. The dealer must maintain permanent records of all transfers, whether they are approved or denied. In your case, what happened is your earlier conviction flagged the transaction during the NICS check and it had to be turned over to an examiner to research. That is why you had the delay in approval. The dealer is not under any obligation to provide you with a copy of the transfer paperwork. Honestly, it wouldn’t do you any good anyway. Unless you have an Arizona CCW, you must undergo a NICS check each time you purchase a firearm. The process will most likely be the same as the last time, since NICS will flag you and a NICS examiner will have to review your request. If you get a CCW, this delay will go away as you do not need to have a NICS check done when purchasing a firerarm if you have a valid Arizona CCW permit.
