How Long Does NICS Background Take?
The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is a critical component of the United States’ firearms background check process. It is a computerized system used to instantly check whether a prospective buyer of a firearm is eligible to purchase or possess one. The system checks the buyer’s background against various databases, including federal and state records, to determine if they have any disqualifying criminal or mental health records.
How Long Does NICS Background Take?
The time it takes for a NICS background check to be completed can vary depending on several factors. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which operates the NICS system, aims to complete most background checks within 3 to 10 minutes. However, the actual time it takes can range from a few seconds to several hours or even days.
Factors Affecting NICS Background Check Time
Several factors can influence the length of time it takes to complete a NICS background check. These include:
- Complexity of the check: Checks involving multiple databases or requiring manual review by a certified examiner can take longer.
- Volume of checks: High-volume periods, such as during holidays or after mass shootings, can cause delays.
- Network connectivity: Issues with internet connectivity or system downtime can slow down the process.
- Database updates: Regular updates to the databases used by NICS can cause temporary delays.
- State and local variations: Some states may have their own background check systems, which can affect the overall processing time.
Average NICS Background Check Times
According to the FBI, the average time it takes to complete a NICS background check is:
- Immediate (less than 10 minutes): 75% of all checks
- Short (10-30 minutes): 15% of all checks
- Medium (30-60 minutes): 5% of all checks
- Long (60 minutes to 2 hours): 3% of all checks
- Extremely Long (2 hours to 24 hours): 2% of all checks
Factors That Can Cause Delays
While the FBI aims to complete most background checks within 3 to 10 minutes, various factors can cause delays. These include:
- Technical issues: System downtime, network connectivity problems, or software glitches can cause delays.
- High volume of checks: A surge in background checks during peak periods can slow down the process.
- Database errors: Errors or inconsistencies in the databases used by NICS can cause delays.
- Manual reviews: Checks that require manual review by a certified examiner can take longer.
What to Do if Your NICS Background Check Takes Too Long
If your NICS background check takes longer than expected, there are several steps you can take:
- Contact the FFL: If you are purchasing a firearm from a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer, contact them to check the status of your background check.
- Contact NICS: You can contact NICS directly to inquire about the status of your background check.
- Check your email: The FBI may send you an email with updates on your background check status.
- Wait patiently: If your background check is taking longer than expected, wait patiently and avoid contacting the FFL or NICS repeatedly.
Conclusion
The time it takes for a NICS background check to be completed can vary depending on several factors. While the FBI aims to complete most background checks within 3 to 10 minutes, various factors can cause delays. By understanding the factors that affect NICS background check time and knowing what to do if your check takes too long, you can better navigate the process and get the information you need to purchase a firearm.
Table: NICS Background Check Times
| Time | Percentage of Checks |
|---|---|
| Immediate (less than 10 minutes) | 75% |
| Short (10-30 minutes) | 15% |
| Medium (30-60 minutes) | 5% |
| Long (60 minutes to 2 hours) | 3% |
| Extremely Long (2 hours to 24 hours) | 2% |
Bullets: Factors Affecting NICS Background Check Time
• Complexity of the check
• Volume of checks
• Network connectivity
• Database updates
• State and local variations
