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ISIowa Gun Shop

FFL Information

FFL Transfer Information — How to Buy Guns Online in Iowa

Buying firearms online in Iowa is safe, legal, and straightforward when done through a licensed FFL dealer. Iowa Gun Shop is a federally licensed firearms dealer, and every firearm we sell is transferred through a network of licensed FFL dealers across Iowa.

What Is an FFL?

A Federal Firearms License is a license issued by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives that allows an individual or company to engage in the business of buying and selling firearms. It is illegal to ship a firearm directly to a consumer. It must go through a licensed FFL dealer who will conduct the required background check.

The Iowa FFL Transfer Process

  1. Shop Online: Browse our catalog and complete checkout securely on our website.
  2. Choose Your Iowa FFL Dealer: Select a licensed FFL dealer near you in Iowa. We work with FFL dealers in Iowa City, Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Sioux City, Waterloo, Dubuque, Ames, Council Bluffs, and throughout rural Iowa.
  3. We Ship to the FFL: After you provide your FFL dealer information, we ship your firearm directly to that dealer, usually within 1-2 business days. Most shipments arrive at the FFL within 3-5 business days total.
  4. Pick Up Your Firearm: Visit your FFL dealer with a valid government-issued photo ID. You will complete ATF Form 4473 and consent to a NICS background check. If approved, your firearm is transferred to you. The FFL dealer charges a small transfer fee, typically $20-$50.

Iowa-Specific FFL Information

Iowa is a shall-issue state for FFL transfers. If you pass the federal NICS background check, the FFL dealer is required to complete the transfer. Iowa does not impose additional waiting periods. Since Iowa eliminated its Permit to Purchase requirement in 2021, you do not need to show a purchase permit to complete your FFL transfer.

Finding an FFL Dealer in Iowa

  • Iowa City and Johnson County
  • Des Moines and Polk County
  • Cedar Rapids and Linn County
  • Davenport and Scott County
  • Sioux City and Woodbury County
  • Hundreds of rural Iowa locations

FFL Transfer Fees

Iowa Gun Shop does not charge a transfer fee. That fee is set and collected by your local FFL dealer. Typical FFL transfer fees in Iowa range from $20 to $50 per firearm.

Questions?

Call us at (319) 512-0847. Our knowledgeable staff is happy to walk you through every step of the process.