Learn how to sign up for and use Firearms Online to transfer pistols.
What is Firearms Online?
Firearms Online allows firearms dealers to enter and submit pistol transfer application forms to us in real time. Using Firearms Online can:
- Reduce errors and incomplete submissions
- Reduce printing and mailing costs
- Reduce workload backlogs
- Provide more accurate statistical data
Sign up for Firearms Online
Follow the steps below to get started with Firearms Online.
1. Request access
Firearms dealers and their employees must both register online.
Log into SecureAccess Washington (SAW)
Don't have a SAW account? Learn how to create a SAW account.
2. Choose a security contact
We can’t provide access until we receive permission from the person you've chosen as your security contact. See our firearms resources for law enforcement for instructions and requirements for choosing a security contact.
Updates and changes to your Firearms Online account
If you have employee changes, you must notify us. Email firearms@dol.wa.gov to update your SAW account.
How Firearms Online works
Through Firearms Online, you can:
- Enter and save pistol transfer applications on our secure website
- Hold applications in a pending status while law enforcement runs background checks
Once the background check is approved or denied, you may update the record and submit the pistol transfer.
Important notice to firearms dealers
Please make sure that completed pistol transfer application forms are thorough, accurate, and legible so we can enter them correctly into the Firearms Database. It's also important for you to forward these forms to the appropriate law enforcement agency and our Firearms Section within the time specified by law.
To help you complete and submit the forms you need to meet state and federal standards, we'll review training opportunities and continue to provide technical support by explaining our procedures.
We're always looking for ways to improve the Firearms Program, so feel free to offer suggestions to help us meet your business needs.
Changes to the pistol transfer application
On May 4, 2016, we changed the pistol transfer application form. Some fields have been revised, changed location on the form, or were removed completely. These changes make it easier to complete the form.
The new form:
- Provides clearer instructions
- Has drop-down menus
- Ensures that the information you report meets the legal requirements
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