How Long Does a Gun Background Check Take in Indiana?
In Indiana, gun background checks are performed by the Indiana State Police (ISP) as part of the state’s requirements for purchasing or obtaining a firearm. The goal of a background check is to ensure that the applicant is not prohibited from possessing a firearm due to various state and federal laws.
How Long Does a Background Check Take?
The time it takes for a background check to be completed in Indiana can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the check, the workload of the ISP, and the completeness of the application.
Average Processing Time:
The average processing time for a background check in Indiana is typically around 5-10 business days. However, it’s not uncommon for the process to take longer, especially if the applicant has a prior conviction or other red flags on their record.
Expedited Processing:
The ISP offers expedited processing for an additional fee of $20. This fee allows the ISP to give priority to the background check, which can reduce the processing time to as little as 1-2 business days.
What to Expect During the Background Check Process:
Here are the steps involved in the background check process in Indiana:
• Application Submittal: The applicant submits a firearms transaction record ( Form 04-466 ) to the ISP, along with a copy of the transferor’s identification and the firearm’s make, model, and serial number.
• ISP Review: The ISP reviews the application to ensure that the transferor and transferee meet the requirements for the transfer of a firearm.
• FBI Check: The ISP performs a check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) to verify the transferee’s eligibility to purchase or possess a firearm.
• State Check: The ISP performs a state check to verify the transferee’s eligibility to possess a firearm under Indiana state law.
• Disposition: The ISP issues a disposition to the transferor and transferee indicating the result of the background check. If the check is approved, the transfer can proceed. If the check is denied, the applicant must be notified and may appeal the decision.
Types of Denials:
A background check may be denied for various reasons, including:
• FBI Denial: A denial by the FBI based on a federal crime conviction or other disqualifying factor.
• State Denial: A denial by the ISP based on a state crime conviction or other disqualifying factor.
• Adjudication: A denial based on a court-adjudicated mental health commitment or other disqualifying factor.
Appeals Process:
If the background check is denied, the applicant may appeal the decision by submitting a written request to the ISP within 30 days of the denial. The ISP will review the appeal and provide a written decision.
Fees:
There is a $5 fee for the background check, which is paid by the applicant. The expedited processing fee is an additional $20.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I cancel a background check after submitting my application? No, once an application is submitted, it cannot be canceled or withdrawn.
- What happens if my background check is denied? If your background check is denied, you must be notified and may appeal the decision.
- Do I need to apply for a permit to carry a firearm in Indiana? No, Indiana does not require a permit to carry a firearm. However, you must meet the eligibility requirements for possessing a firearm.
Conclusion:
In Indiana, gun background checks are an essential step in the process of purchasing or obtaining a firearm. While the processing time may vary, the average processing time is around 5-10 business days. The ISP offers expedited processing for an additional fee, which can reduce the processing time to as little as 1-2 business days. If the background check is denied, the applicant may appeal the decision. It’s essential to understand the requirements and process involved in the background check process to ensure a smooth and successful outcome.
