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NICS Check Integration

NICS Check Integration

NICS stands for the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. It is the federal database maintained by the FBI that determines whether a prospective buyer is legally allowed to purchase a firearm.

When to Run a NICS Check

A NICS check is required for every firearm transfer from your shop to a non-licensed individual. This includes sales, trades, and any other transfer where a non-FFL person receives a firearm from your inventory.

How to Run a NICS Check

Depending on your state, you will use one of these methods:

  • FBI NICS Center — Call 1-877-324-6427 (NICS hotline) or use the FBI's online e-Check system. Available in states that do not have a state Point of Contact (POC).
  • State Point of Contact (POC) — Some states run their own background check system. If your state is a POC state, you contact your state agency instead of the FBI.

You will provide the customer's information from the 4473 form to the NICS examiner or system.

Three Possible Results

  • Proceed — The transfer may go ahead. Complete the sale.
  • Delayed — More research is needed. You must wait. Do not transfer the firearm. (See "Handling Delays & Denials" for details.)
  • Denied — The transfer is prohibited. Do not sell the firearm to this customer.

Recording the NICS Transaction Number (NTN)

Every NICS check generates a NICS Transaction Number (NTN). You must record this number on:

  • The ATF Form 4473 — Section C
  • Your FastBound disposition record

The NTN is your proof that a background check was performed for this specific transaction.

Tip: Write the NTN down immediately when the examiner gives it to you. If you lose it, you will have to call back to retrieve it, which takes extra time.

Important: A NICS "Proceed" result is valid for 30 calendar days. If the customer does not pick up the firearm within 30 days, you must run a new background check before transferring it.

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