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How an FFL Transfer Works in Arizona

Buying a gun online? Here's exactly what happens, what it costs, and how long it takes
October 30, 2026 by
How an FFL Transfer Works in Arizona

Found a great deal online, or buying from a seller in another state? Federal law says that gun can't ship to your house. It has to go to a licensed dealer (an FFL), who does the paperwork and background check before handing it to you. That's an FFL transfer. Here's exactly how it works.

Step by step

  1. Send us your info. Fill out our transfer form or stop in. We'll send the seller our FFL license and shipping address. It takes about 2 minutes.
  2. The seller ships to us. Most guns arrive in 3 to 5 business days. We text you the moment yours arrives.
  3. Come in and do the paperwork. Bring a valid Arizona ID. You fill out ATF Form 4473 and we run the NICS background check on site. It usually clears in minutes.
  4. Pay and walk out. The on-site part takes about 15 minutes. No appointment is needed.
Transfers are handled at our counter: usually about 15 minutes once your gun arrives.
Transfers are handled at our counter: usually about 15 minutes once your gun arrives.

What it costs

Standard transfer (one firearm)$30
Each additional firearm, same shipment, same buyer$15
Suppressor, SBR, SBS or AOW (NFA)$30
Machine gun$75
Private-party transfer (both people present, Arizona residents)$30
Storage after 30 days$10 per firearm per month
Bought from Guns 2 AmmoNo transfer fee

Residency rules

  • Handguns can only be transferred to residents of the state the dealer is in, so handgun transfers at our Mesa shop are for Arizona residents.
  • Rifles and shotguns can be transferred to most out-of-state residents, as long as the sale is legal in both states. Call us to confirm for your home state.

What if my background check is delayed?

Most checks come back "proceed" in minutes. If yours is delayed, federal law lets the dealer transfer the firearm after 3 business days without a response, though we recommend waiting for a clear "proceed." A valid Arizona CCW permit can take the place of the NICS check (see How to Get an Arizona CCW Permit in 2026).

Tips before you buy online

  • Give the seller our info before you pay, so the gun ships to the right place.
  • Ask the seller for a tracking number and forward it to us.
  • Check the total, including shipping plus our $30 fee, against our in-store price. Buy from us and there's no transfer fee at all.
  • Pick it up within 30 days to avoid storage fees.

Suppressors and other NFA items

Same $30 fee and same 4473. For suppressors, SBRs, SBS and AOWs you can now choose a registered eForm 4 or a same-day transfer. See Buying a Suppressor in 2026: Registered vs. Same-Day and our NFA page.

Start a transfer

Classes that help

Got your new gun? Learn to run it properly.

  • Basic Handgun · $95
    2 hours, 1-6 students. Grip, stance, sights and trigger, then 50 rounds with one-on-one coaching. Handgun provided. Wednesday evenings at 5:45 PM.
  • Rifle Fundamentals (AR-15) · $99.99
    2 hours, up to 6 students. Safe long-gun handling, zeroing, positions and reloads on our indoor range. Thursday evenings at 5:45 PM.
  • Arizona CCW Certification · $85
    4-hour classroom course. Arizona carry law and use of force; DPS application and fingerprints done in class. Select Saturdays at 11:30 AM.

See upcoming class dates Full course catalog
Taught by NRA-certified instructors. Range members save 10% on every course.

Questions? Call us at (602) 715-2677 or stop by 6030 E Main St, Suite 103, Mesa, AZ 85205. Open Mon–Thu 10–6, Fri–Sat 10–7, Sun 12–6.

General information current as of October 2026, not legal advice. Laws change; check the current statute or ask an attorney about your situation.

Indoor Shooting Range in Mesa, AZ: Prices, Hours and What to Expect
Lane rates, rentals, rules, Ladies Day and memberships at Guns 2 Ammo