North Carolina is home to approximately 3,200 Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders, representing about 3.9% of all licensed firearms dealers in the United States. This comprehensive directory helps North Carolina residents and visitors locate licensed gun dealers, firearms transfer agents, and gun stores throughout the state. Whether you need to purchase a firearm, complete a private sale transfer, or find a licensed dealer for compliance purposes, our directory makes it easy to connect with FFLs across North Carolina.
Browse by city below to find a licensed FFL near you in North Carolina.
Obtaining a Federal Firearms License in North Carolina requires completing several steps through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). First, you must be at least 21 years old and legally eligible to possess firearms. Submit ATF Form 7, the Application for Federal Firearms License, along with the required fees and photographs. The ATF conducts a thorough background check and an in-person interview at your proposed business location. North Carolina does not require a separate state dealer license, making the federal process the primary requirement. Local jurisdictions may have business licensing and zoning requirements that must be satisfied. For a complete, step-by-step guide, check out FastBound's FFL guide for North Carolina.
Federal Firearms License holders in North Carolina are authorized to engage in various firearms-related business activities depending on their license type. Type 01 Dealers can buy, sell, and repair firearms, making them the most common license type for retail gun stores. Type 07 Manufacturers can produce firearms and ammunition, while also conducting dealer activities. FFLs can facilitate private party transfers, ensuring proper background checks are completed. They can also receive firearms shipped from other states, order directly from distributors, and maintain the required records for ATF compliance. North Carolina has a pistol purchase permit system that FFLs must work with for handgun sales.
Yes, you can purchase firearms online and have them shipped to a licensed FFL in North Carolina for transfer. Federal law requires that all firearms purchased online from out-of-state sellers be shipped to a licensed dealer who will process the transfer. The receiving FFL will conduct the required background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) before releasing the firearm to you. For handgun purchases, you'll need either a pistol purchase permit from your county sheriff or a valid North Carolina concealed handgun permit. Contact the FFL beforehand to confirm they accept transfers and ask about their fee.
North Carolina has approximately 3,182 active Federal Firearms License holders distributed across the state. From major cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greensboro to smaller communities throughout North Carolina's 100 counties, FFLs are readily accessible to residents statewide. This extensive network ensures that North Carolinians have convenient access to licensed dealers for firearm purchases, transfers, and other services. Use this directory to browse FFLs by city and find a licensed dealer near you, whether you're in a metropolitan area or a rural North Carolina community.