How Long Does an Academy Background Check Take for a Gun?
The process of obtaining a firearm can be lengthy and arduous, with multiple steps and checks that must be completed before a permit or license is issued. One of the most critical steps in this process is the background check, which is conducted by the academy to ensure that the applicant is eligible to own a firearm. But how long does this process take?
The Background Check Process
A background check is a comprehensive review of an individual’s criminal history, mental health records, and other relevant information to determine their eligibility to own a firearm. The process typically involves the following steps:
- Submission of Application: The applicant submits their application to the academy, which includes providing personal and identifying information, as well as a detailed description of the firearm they wish to purchase.
- Review of Application: The academy reviews the application to ensure that all required information is provided and that the applicant meets the eligibility criteria.
- FBI Check: The academy submits the application to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for a national criminal history check.
- State and Local Checks: The academy conducts additional checks with state and local law enforcement agencies to verify the applicant’s criminal history and ensure they are not prohibited from owning a firearm.
- Review of Mental Health Records: The academy reviews the applicant’s mental health records to ensure they do not have a history of mental illness or other conditions that would prohibit them from owning a firearm.
How Long Does the Background Check Take?
The length of time it takes to complete a background check can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Type of Firearm: The type of firearm being purchased can affect the length of the background check. For example, a background check for a handgun may take longer than one for a rifle or shotgun.
- Complexity of Application: The complexity of the application can also impact the length of the background check. For example, an application with multiple names, aliases, or conflicting information may require additional time to resolve.
- Volume of Applications: The volume of applications being processed by the academy can also impact the length of the background check. During peak periods, such as holidays or special events, the background check process may take longer.
Average Wait Times
While the length of time it takes to complete a background check can vary, here are some average wait times to expect:
| Type of Firearm | Average Wait Time |
|---|---|
| Handgun | 1-3 days |
| Rifle or Shotgun | 1-2 days |
| High-Capacity Firearm | 2-5 days |
Factors That Can Delay the Background Check
While the average wait times above provide a general idea of what to expect, there are several factors that can delay the background check process. These include:
- Incomplete or Inaccurate Information: Providing incomplete or inaccurate information on the application can delay the background check process.
- Multiple Names or Aliases: Using multiple names or aliases can delay the background check process as the academy must verify the applicant’s identity.
- Conflicting Information: Conflicting information between different databases or records can delay the background check process.
- High Volume of Applications: During peak periods, the background check process may take longer due to the volume of applications being processed.
Conclusion
The length of time it takes to complete a background check for a gun can vary depending on several factors. While the average wait times above provide a general idea of what to expect, it is essential to provide complete and accurate information on the application to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Additionally, applicants should be prepared for delays during peak periods or if their application requires additional review. By understanding the background check process and what to expect, applicants can better plan and prepare for the process of obtaining a firearm.
