Firearms purchase/delivery requirements

  Handgun purchase without CPL Handgun purchase with CPL Rifle or shotgun purchase with or without CPL
State application to transfer pistol or revolver required Yes Yes No
Federal form 4473 firearms transaction record by dealer Yes Yes Yes
Local LEA conducts background check, including federal disqualifers under NICS Yes LEA conducts all other background checks except for NICS check No
Firearms Dealer conducts NICS for instant check prior to the delivery No Yes Yes
Delivery 5-day wait under state law Upon notification of approval from NICS center Upon notification of approval from NICS center

Definitions

CPL - Concealed Pistol License
LEA – Law Enforcement Agency
NICS – National Instant Criminal Background Check System

Special notice for new Washington State firearms dealers

After you receive your Washington State Firearms Dealer License, you must contact our Firearms Section at the address below to get the appropriate pistol transfer forms and proper procedures.

  • Write:
    Firearms Section
    Department of Licensing
    PO Box 9649
    Olympia, WA 98507-9649
  • Call: (360) 664-6616