What Documents Do I Need for a Gun Background Check?
If you’re planning to purchase a firearm, one of the essential steps in the process is to undergo a background check. The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is the federal system that conducts background checks for firearm transactions. To complete a background check, you’ll need to provide specific documentation to verify your identity, citizenship, and eligibility to own a firearm. In this article, we’ll outline the necessary documents required for a gun background check.
Identification Documents
To initiate a background check, you’ll need to provide one of the following identification documents:
- Valid U.S. driver’s license (active or expired within the past 3 years)
- State-issued ID card (active or expired within the past 3 years)
- U.S. passport
- Military ID
- Native American Tribal ID (if the transaction occurs on a federally recognized Indian reservation)
If you don’t have one of these documents, you may still be able to complete the background check, but you’ll need to provide additional documentation, such as a birth certificate and proof of citizenship.
Citizenship Documents
To verify your citizenship, you’ll need to provide one of the following documents:
- U.S. birth certificate (not a hospital-issued certificate)
- U.S. passport
- Naturalization certificate
- Certificate of citizenship (if you were naturalized)
- Native American Tribal ID (if the transaction occurs on a federally recognized Indian reservation)
Residency Documents
Some states require you to provide proof of residency to complete a background check. This may include:
- Utility bill (electricity, gas, water, or phone bill)
- Lease agreement (current or expired within the past 3 months)
- Bank statement (dated within the past 30 days)
- ID card (with a current address)
Disability Documentation (Optional)
If you’re disabled and meet specific criteria, you may be eligible for a NICS firearms background check exemption. To apply for this exemption, you’ll need to provide documentation from a licensed physician or other qualified medical professional.
Other Important Documents
Additionally, you may need to provide:
- Tax identification number (TIN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN) if you’re purchasing a firearm for business purposes
- Proof of insurance (if applicable)
- Proof of completion of a firearms safety course (if applicable)
What Happens During the Background Check Process?
During the background check process, the following steps will occur:
- Submission of your application: Your dealer will submit your background check application to the FBI’s NICS system.
- Verification of identity: The NICS system will verify your identity by checking your name, date of birth, and social security number against various databases.
- Criminal history check: The system will search for any felony convictions, misdemeanor convictions that involve a violent crime or a drug offense, or any outstanding warrants.
- Psychological evaluation: If you’ve been previously adjudicated as mentally defective or have been committed to a mental institution, your application may be denied.
- Final determination: The NICS system will issue a final determination, which will be one of the following:
- Prohibited person: You are not eligible to possess a firearm due to a disqualifying conviction, adjudication, or other legal issue.
- Delayed: Further investigation is required to resolve any outstanding issues.
- Approved: You are cleared to purchase the firearm.
Conclusion
In summary, to complete a gun background check, you’ll need to provide identification, citizenship, residency, and other relevant documentation. By understanding the specific requirements and process, you can ensure a smooth and successful transaction. Remember to always follow the laws and regulations in your state and municipality regarding firearm ownership and purchases.
