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FBI Gun Laws And NICs Information Center
Information and updates on U.S. Gun Laws, Ownership, and the FBI NICs Instant Criminal Background Check System.

Background Check NIC System

Learn about the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), how it works, and its impact on firearm sales and transfers in the U.S.

  • Obtain an FBI Criminal Identification Record via FBI Approved Channelers

    Under Departmental Order (DO) 556-73. An individual may obtain a copy of his/her FBI criminal identification record, upon request, for review and correction purposes, to challenge the information on record, or satisfy certain legal requirements such as a requirement for adopting a child; requirement to live, work, or travel in a foreign country; and/or other…

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  • Gun Background Check Denial Appeal Process

      Filing an Gun Background Check Denial Appeal:   If you believe you have been erroneously denied a firearm transfer based on a match to a record returned by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), you may request an appeal of your deny decision. The provisions for appeals are outlined in the NICS…

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  • FBI National Instant Criminal Background Check System

      The National Instant Criminal Background Check System has been an established and aggressive plan to help improve the safety of the general public, cut down on crime, and keeps guns, weapons, and explosive materials out of the hands of those with the high risk potential to use them inappropriately. Thanks to the FBI National…

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  • National Instant Criminal Background Check Objectives

      The objective of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is a straightforward attempt to prevent those who do not qualify for the purchase of a firearm or explosive to be able to purchase a weapon. There are state and federal requirements that a potential arms bearer must meet, and once they fail…

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  • National Instant Criminal Background Check Process

      Anyone who wishes to purchase a firearm or an explosive device must first pass the National Instant Background Check System (NICS) in order to complete their purchase. While most firearms dealers still need to place a quick phone call to the NICS toll free number to complete their instant check, computer access is just…

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  • FBI NICS Background Check Information

    NICS System FBI NICS Background Check Information What the National Instant Criminal Background Check System is, who it disqualifies, and how to reach the FBI directly. The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is a federal system for determining eligibility to purchase a firearm in the United States. Before a licensed dealer can complete…

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