Federal Firearms Licenses come in nine categories, each authorizing different activities within the firearms industry. Choosing the wrong category limits what you can legally do — and adding activities without the right license type creates compliance problems. Here's what each type covers.

Type 01 — Dealer in Firearms (Dealer/Gunsmith)

The most common FFL type. A Type 01 license authorizes the holder to engage in the business of dealing in firearms — buying and selling firearms at retail. The "Dealer/Gunsmith" designation means Type 01 holders may also perform gunsmithing services. This is the standard retail gun store license. Type 01 holders cannot manufacture firearms for sale (that requires a Type 07) but can perform repairs and modifications for customers.

Type 02 — Pawnbroker in Firearms

Similar to Type 01, but specifically for pawnbrokers who accept firearms as collateral for loans. Pawnbrokers have specific compliance obligations around firearm redemptions — the pledgor redeeming their own firearm still requires a Form 4473 and NICS check. Type 02 holders must also comply with special A&D record requirements for pawn transactions.

Type 03 — Collector of Curios and Relics

The C&R license is available to individuals who collect firearms that are classified as curios and relics — typically firearms that are at least 50 years old or designated by the ATF as having special collector interest. A C&R FFL allows the holder to acquire C&R-designated firearms across state lines and directly from manufacturers, but does not authorize dealing in firearms for profit at retail.

Type 06 — Manufacturer of Ammunition

Authorizes the manufacture of ammunition and ammunition components for sale. Type 06 holders do not have authority to manufacture firearms — that requires a separate license type.

Type 07 — Manufacturer of Firearms

Authorizes the manufacture of firearms for sale. A Type 07 holder can manufacture firearms, including receivers and frames, for commercial sale. Type 07 holders may also pay the SOT to manufacture NFA items (as a Class II manufacturer). This is a more expansive license than Type 01 and comes with additional compliance requirements around serialization and manufacturing records.

The SOT Upgrade

Any FFL holder who pays the Special Occupational Tax becomes a "Class III" dealer (for Type 01/02/07/08), manufacturer (for Type 07/10), or importer (for Type 08/11), adding NFA transfer authority to their existing license. The SOT is an annual tax, not a separate license — it modifies what your existing FFL allows you to do.

Type 08 — Importer of Firearms

Authorizes the importation of firearms and ammunition from foreign sources into the United States. Importers are subject to stringent ATF review of proposed imports and must comply with restrictions on imported firearms features. Type 08 holders may also pay the SOT to import NFA items.

Type 09 — Dealer in Destructive Devices

Specifically authorizes dealing in destructive devices — grenades, explosive devices, large-bore firearms over .50 caliber, and similar items. This is a highly specialized license with significant additional compliance requirements.

Type 10 — Manufacturer of Destructive Devices

Authorizes manufacture of destructive devices. Requires extensive ATF oversight and is primarily held by defense contractors and specialized manufacturers.

Type 11 — Importer of Destructive Devices

Authorizes importation of destructive devices. Like Types 09 and 10, this is a highly specialized license type.

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