How the NFA Application Process Works: Step-by-Step Guide
Buying a suppressor, short-barreled rifle (SBR), or other NFA-regulated item is different from buying a normal firearm. The process involves federal paperwork, a tax stamp, and a waiting period – but it’s much simpler than most people think.
At A-Zone Armory, we handle this process for our customers every day. This guide explains exactly how the NFA application process works, what you’ll need, and what to expect from start to finish.
What Is the NFA?
The National Firearms Act (NFA) is a federal law that regulates certain types of firearms and accessories, including:
Suppressors (silencers)
Short-Barreled Rifles (SBRs)
Short-Barreled Shotguns (SBSs)
Machine guns
Destructive devices
Any Other Weapons (AOWs)
To legally own one of these items, you must receive approval from the ATF and pay a $200 tax stamp for machineguns (some AOWs are $5).
The Good News
NFA items are legal to own in Florida and most states. The process is paperwork and waiting – not a special license.
You do not need:
A special permit
A gun license
To be law enforcement or military
You just need to pass a background check and follow the process.
Step-by-Step: How the NFA Process Works
Step 1: Choose Your NFA Item
First, pick the item you want:
Etc.
At A-Zone Armory, we’ll help you:
Make sure it’s legal in your state
Confirm it fits your firearm and needs
Choose the right mounting options if needed
See our guide on How to Choose the Right Suppressor for Assistance Here
Step 2: Decide How You’re Registering (Individual vs Trust)
You can file your NFA application as:
Individual
Simple
No trust required
Only you can possess the item
Gun Trust
Multiple responsible persons can use the item
Easier estate planning
Slightly more paperwork
We can explain both and help you decide what’s best for your situation.
Step 3: Complete Your ATF Application (Form 4 or Form 1)
Most customers will use:
ATF Form 4 – When buying a suppressor or NFA item from A-Zone Armory
ATF Form 1 – When you are making your own SBR or suppressor
We handle:
The forms
The serial numbers
The submission process
Making sure everything is filled out correctly
Step 4: Fingerprints, Photo, and Paperwork
You’ll need:
Passport-style photo
Fingerprints
Basic personal information
We help collect and submit all of this.
Step 5: Pay the Tax Stamp If Applicable
$200 tax stamp for machineguns. SBRs, Suppressors, and SBSs no longer require a tax stamp payment
Paid to the ATF during submission
This is a federal tax, not a store fee.
Step 6: ATF Review & Waiting Period
Once submitted:
The ATF reviews your application
They run a background check
They approve or deny the transfer
Typical Wait Times:
eForms: Varies, in many cases approved in a week, but could be much longer
Paper forms: Longer, possibly greater than six months
We monitor your application and notify you when it’s approved.
Step 7: Approval & Pickup
When your Form 4 is approved:
The ATF sends the approval to us
You come in
You fill out a standard 4473
You take your NFA item home
