Federal law prohibits gun ownership for individuals in several categories, including: Convicted felons or those under indictment for a felony. Fugitives from justice.
: Records specifically related to firearms prohibitions that might not be in the other two databases (e.g., mental health adjudications). background check before buying a gun
: Most checks are resolved in minutes with one of three statuses: Proceed : The sale can go forward immediately. Denied : The buyer is prohibited by law. Federal law prohibits gun ownership for individuals in
: Contains records of protection orders, warrants, and stolen property. : Most checks are resolved in minutes with
: Further investigation is needed. If no determination is made within three business days , the dealer may (but is not required to) transfer the firearm, unless state law says otherwise. Common Prohibitions
Those subject to certain domestic violence restraining orders or convicted of misdemeanor domestic violence. Individuals dishonorably discharged from the military. Key Policy Gaps & Perspectives The Effects of Background Checks - RAND
Before purchasing a firearm from a federally licensed dealer (FFL), you must undergo a background check through the . This process is designed to prevent prohibited persons—such as convicted felons or those with specific mental health histories—from legally obtaining guns. The Background Check Process