Why do we even have this form? See changes.
Due to changes in statutory requirements set forth previously by both the NICS Denial Notification Act and the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), and to reflect the implementation of ATF Final Rule 2021R-05F, ATF Form 4473 was revised. Because the new statutory requirements were designed to enhance public safety, and to ensure compliance with the cited provisions (and Final Rule 2021R-05F), the Office of Management and Budget provided ATF emergency authorization to implement the use of the revised Form 4473. That version of the Form was subsequently published for Notice and Comment Review, where upon the form has been further revised and approved for implementation.
ATF encourages all federal firearms licensees (FFLs) to begin using the Revised Form immediately. The Revised Form is available on ATF’s website, and can be downloaded and printed for immediate use. Please note that the entire form, including instructions, must be printed, and stored together. Hard copies of the Revised Form are also now available for order through the ATF Distribution Center. The ATF eForm 4473 application is also being revised and notification will be sent when it is ready for use.
A detailed breakdown of all form changes is provided below. The Revised Form will become mandatory for use on February 1, 2024. Please contact your local ATF Industry Operations office should you have any questions regarding the changes to the form.
