Type 11 FFLs
Import Destructive Devices and Ammunition
What is a Type 11 FFL?
The Type 11 FFL is similar to the Type 10 FFL, which allows license holders to manufacture destructive devices, ammunition, and armor-piercing ammunition, but it is intended for those who wish to import these items rather than manufacture them.
This FFL is a great option for firearm dealers who want to work with government agencies or for those who want to deal in relic firearms and rare military arms with a greater than .50” bore.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Type 11 FFL
Advantages
- Offers the ability to import large-bore artillery pieces and other destructive devices for museums and private collectors
- Allows the license holder to import armor-piercing ammunition, incendiary, and explosives for government agencies, from local police on up
- Ideal for certain firearm dealers who aren’t interested in being a manufacturer of ammunition or destructive devices
Disadvantages
- Type 11 FFLs are more restrictive than a Type 10 license
- Just like a Type 10 license, it costs $3,000 for initial registration and then an additional $3,000 every 3 years thereafter
To take full advantage of a Type 11 FFL, you will need to become a Class 1 Special Occupational Taxholder (SOT) and possibly obtain a Federal Explosive License as well.
Electronic 4473
Leading Integrations
Compliance backed by legal defense
Type 11 FFL Requirements
The requirements to get a Type 11 FFL are mostly similar to those for getting any other type of FFL, and an FFL application must meet several federal and state requirements to ensure compliance with firearms laws, regulations, and local zoning ordinances.
Generally, you can apply for a Type 11 FFL if you’re 21 years of age or older, legally allowed to own a firearm, and intend to start a firearms business involving the activities covered and permitted by a Type 11 FFL.
The basic requirements under federal law are:
- Be at least 21 years of age and a US Citizen or legal permanent resident
- Be legally permitted to possess firearms and ammunition (no felony convictions, controlled substance abuse, or disqualifying mental health issues)
- Have a predetermined physical location for conducting your FFL activities
- No violations of the Gun Control Act or other firearms-based regulations
- Fully and honestly fill out your ATF Form and submit it appropriately to the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
- Pay any associated application fees/tax stamps. Type 11 FFLs cost $3000 for the application fee and $3000 every three years for renewal.
State laws and local regulations vary by location, but most states require individuals to obtain an FFL to register their business with the state government and acquire an additional state firearms license after receiving the federal license.
You will also likely need permission from your local zoning board unless you’re in a very rural area. Typically, you will not be able to have a home-based FFL if you’re dealing with destructive devices or explosives, and the state, your local zoning board, or fire marshal may require additional pre-licensing inspections.
While you don’t need a Class 01 SOT to get an FFL, you can’t make full use of your Type 11 FFL without a Class 01 SOT and possibly an FEL as well.
A Class 1 SOT is required to import items regulated by the National Firearms Act, which is basically everything covered by a Type 11 FFL. The process for this SOT class, which costs $500 per year in registration (or up to $1000 depending on your yearly revenue), is done after an FFL.
Once the FFL is complete, you’ll need to fill out the Special Occupational Taxpayer registration form and pay the tax that applies to your business. Then, you should get your SOT in the mail within a few weeks.
You will also likely want a Federal Explosive License, which allows you to deal with, as the name implies, explosives. This is an additional license and accompanying fee of $100/year. Getting an FEL is trickier than getting an SOT and more similar to the process of getting your FFL. To get an FEL, you’ll need to fill out an ATF Form 5400.13/5400.16.
The Federal Explosive License Center will then coordinate with the ATF to conduct its own set of background checks, interviews, and inspections.
How FastBound Can Help Type 11 FFLs
FastBound offers an all-in-one solution for Type 11 FFL holders to simplify compliance and streamline business operations. With FastBound, you can create unlimited, ATF-compliant bound books, turning any computer, tablet, or smartphone into an electronic compliant 4473 with digital signature support.
Our software suite includes automated multi-state background checks, A&D record tracking, form completion, bulk changes, and automated multi-sale reporting, ensuring gun dealers stay compliant with any FFL type. FastBound’s attorney-backed guaranteed legal defense from FFLGuard provides peace of mind by protecting your firearm business from potential license revocations or transfer denials. We ensure compliance with all record-keeping requirements for federal, state, and local law enforcement to help you focus on growing your business.
