Americans Now Need 4 Background Checks To Buy A Gun - According To The FBI

Published on November 14, 2025
Duration: 15:19

This video explains the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) as presented by FBI representatives at a National Shooting Sports Foundation conference. It details the three outcomes of a background check (proceed, delay, denied) and clarifies that a 'delay' is typically a name-based match with individuals in four databases: NCIC, III, NICS Indices, and ICE. The importance of providing a Social Security Number and a Unique Personal Identification Number (UPIN) for common names to expedite the process and prevent erroneous denials is highlighted.

Quick Summary

The NICS background check system uses four databases: NCIC, III, NICS Indices, and ICE. A 'delay' means the applicant's name matches someone in these databases, requiring further review. Providing a Social Security Number or obtaining a UPIN can help expedite checks for common names and prevent erroneous denials.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Conference Anecdote
  2. 00:31FBI Representative Interaction
  3. 01:14FBI at NSSF Conference
  4. 02:48FBI Support for Dealers
  5. 03:14FBI Explains Background Checks
  6. 03:38Background Check Outcomes
  7. 04:04Understanding 'Delay'
  8. 04:19Four NICS Databases
  9. 05:01Name-Based Checks
  10. 05:39Using Middle Name
  11. 05:45SSN on Form 4473
  12. 06:24UPIN Explained
  13. 07:04UPIN for Common Names
  14. 08:07Listing Four Databases
  15. 09:23Prohibition List
  16. 09:46Form 4473 Question 21
  17. 10:01Prohibiting List Definitions
  18. 11:04Key Takeaways from FBI
  19. 11:33FBI's Role in Crime Prevention

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the four databases used by the NICS background check system?

The NICS background check system queries four primary databases: the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), the Interstate Identification Index (III), the NICS Indices, and records from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These databases help determine if an individual is prohibited from purchasing firearms.

What does a 'delay' mean during a NICS background check?

A 'delay' during a NICS background check signifies that the applicant's name has matched, by name only, an individual within one of the NICS databases. This requires further review to ascertain if the applicant is indeed prohibited from owning a firearm.

How can a Unique Personal Identification Number (UPIN) help with firearm background checks?

A UPIN is a voluntary identification number obtained through a NICS check that includes fingerprints and a photograph. For individuals with common names that frequently trigger delays, a UPIN can expedite the process and prevent erroneous denials by providing a unique identifier.

What is the significance of Question 21 on ATF Form 4473?

Question 21 on ATF Form 4473 lists the specific prohibitions that would prevent a person from legally purchasing a firearm. It covers various categories such as felony convictions, domestic violence restraining orders, and unlawful drug use.

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