Serial Numbers With a Space, a Hyphen, a Period, or a Special Character

If you receive an item that has a serial number marked on it that contains a Space, a Hyphen, a Period, or a Special Character you must know how to properly record the item in your A&D record. Below we will go over the process for properly recording these into your A&D record.

Serial Contains a Space

ATF HQ has confirmed that spaces should not be recorded when entering the serial into the A&D record.

Serial Contains a Hyphen

ATF HQ has noted that the only approved non-alphanumeric is a Hyphen (-). If the serial number has a Hyphen, it must be recorded in the A&D Record.

Serial Contains a Special Character or a Period

An item cannot be manufactured with a special character or a period in the serial number unless the manufacturer has a variance from the ATF allowing them to do so.

If you receive an item with a special character or a period you must log this serial number into your A&D record WITHOUT the special character(s). Then you need to contact the manufacturer to see if they have a variance allowing for a special character or period in the serial number.