If you’ve ever walked into a gun shop and decided to buy a firearm, chances are you’ve come face-to-face with Form 4473. It’s not just some random paperwork—it’s an important part of the process that helps ensure firearms are sold legally and responsibly. Whether you're buying your first gun or just curious about how the process works, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about this form and why it matters.
For a closer look, you can check out the official Form 4473 here.
Photo of a Glock on Section 1 of 4473
1. The Firearm Details: What You’re Buying Goes on the Record
The first part of the 4473 is all about the gun you’re buying. Think of it like a receipt but with more official details. The seller will fill out information like:
- Make and Model: Whether you’re picking up a Glock 19, a Remington 700, or something else entirely, this gets written down.
- Caliber or Gauge: This shows what kind of ammo your firearm uses—9mm, .45 ACP, 12-gauge, etc.
- Serial Number: Every firearm has a unique serial number, and that number goes straight onto the form. This helps trace the gun if it’s ever lost, stolen, or (hopefully never) involved in a crime.
This part makes sure there’s a clear record of exactly what you’re buying.
Alex acting like a customer completing a background check form
2. Your Information: Filling Out the Buyer’s Details
Next up, it’s your turn. You’ll need to provide some personal information, including:
- Full Name
- Current Address
- Date of Birth
- Place of Birth (City and State)
- Height, Weight, Gender, and Ethnicity
- U.S. Citizenship Status
One question that trips people up is whether to include your Social Security Number. It’s optional, but including it can help speed up your background check and prevent delays, especially if you’ve got a common name like John Smith or Sarah Johnson. If you leave it blank, no worries—you’re not required to fill it in.
Close up of Customer with 4473
3. The Yes-or-No Questions: Are You Legally Allowed to Buy a Gun?
Here’s where things get serious. The 4473 asks a series of yes-or-no questions to make sure you’re legally allowed to buy a firearm. Some of the questions include:
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Are you the actual buyer of the firearm?
You can’t buy a gun for someone else (this is called a straw purchase and is a big no-no). -
Have you ever been convicted of a felony?
Felons are prohibited from owning firearms unless their rights have been restored. -
Are you under a restraining order, or have you ever been committed to a mental institution?
These factors could also disqualify you from buying a gun.
Answering falsely on any of these is a federal crime, and trust me—you don’t want to go down that road. If you’re unsure about how to answer something, ask the dealer before submitting the form.
4. Your Signature: Sealing the Deal
Once you’ve filled everything out, it’s time to sign and date the form. Your signature confirms that everything you’ve written is true to the best of your knowledge. It’s not just a formality—lying on this form can lead to serious legal trouble, including fines and prison time.
Computer screen submitting E-Check
5. The Seller’s Section: Finalizing the Sale
After you’re done, the gun dealer steps in to complete the rest. They’ll:
- Verify Your ID: They’ll note your driver’s license or other ID number to confirm who you are.
- Run a Background Check (NICS): The dealer submits your info to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This usually takes just a few minutes.
- Approved: You’re good to go and can take your new firearm home.
- Delayed: Sometimes, additional checks are needed, which can take up to three business days.
- Denied: If something in your background disqualifies you, you won’t be able to purchase the firearm.
- Record the NICS Number and Status: They’ll write down the background check number and whether you were approved, delayed, or denied.
- Final Signature and Date: The dealer signs off and notes the date the firearm was transferred to you.
Filing Cabinet with 4473s
6. What Happens to the 4473 After You Leave the Store?
You might be wondering—what happens to this form after you walk out with your new firearm? Good question!
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The Gun Shop Keeps It on File: By law, the dealer must keep the 4473 form for as long as they’re in business. If the shop ever closes, they’re required to send their records to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
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Law Enforcement Can Request It: If your firearm is ever lost, stolen, or used in a crime, law enforcement can request the form to trace the gun back to its original buyer. This doesn’t mean there’s a national gun registry—it just means there’s a paper trail for specific cases.
7. The Fine Print: Why the Instructions Matter
At the very end of the form, you’ll find detailed instructions that explain each step in depth. Don’t skip this! If you’re unsure about anything—whether it’s how to list your address or how to answer one of the yes/no questions—those instructions can be a lifesaver. Even experienced gun buyers glance over them to avoid mistakes.
A good example is the guide on buying a gun as a gift. The instructions make it clear that buying a gun with your own money as a gift is legal, but buying it with someone else’s money is a crime. That little bit of info could save you from accidentally breaking the law.
Why Does This Matter?
Filling out a 4473 might seem like a hassle, but it’s a key part of responsible gun ownership. It helps keep firearms out of the wrong hands while protecting your right to buy one legally. Plus, understanding the process gives you confidence when you walk into a gun shop—you’ll know exactly what to expect, and you’ll be one step closer to taking home your new firearm.
So the next time you’re standing at the counter, pen in hand, you’ll know exactly what that 4473 is all about—and why it’s so important.
