How to Transport NFA Items Across State Lines

Published on November 15, 2022
Duration: 7:33

William Kirk, President of Washington Gun Law, provides expert guidance on the legal requirements for transporting National Firearms Act (NFA) items across state lines. He emphasizes the necessity of ATF approval via Form 5320.20 for most NFA items, excluding suppressors, and details the submission process and consequences of non-compliance.

Quick Summary

To legally transport regulated NFA items like SBRs, SBSs, machine guns, and destructive devices across state lines, you must submit ATF Form 5320.20 in duplicate to the ATF NFA Division *before* your trip. Suppressors are the only NFA items exempt from this requirement. Failure to comply can result in criminal liability.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to NFA Interstate Transport
  2. 00:52Defining National Firearms Act (NFA) Items
  3. 01:53Interstate Transport Regulations for NFA Items
  4. 02:30Understanding ATF Form 5320.20
  5. 03:34How to Submit ATF Form 5320.20
  6. 04:54ATF Approval Process and Timeframes
  7. 05:57Consequences of Non-Compliance with NFA Transport Rules

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ATF Form 5320.20 and when is it required?

ATF Form 5320.20 is the Application to Transport Interstate or in Foreign Commerce Certain Firearms. It is required for transporting regulated NFA items such as short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), machine guns, and destructive devices across state lines. Suppressors are exempt from this requirement.

Can I transport my NFA items across state lines for a hunting trip without ATF approval?

No, for most NFA items like SBRs, SBSs, machine guns, and destructive devices, you must obtain prior approval from the ATF by submitting Form 5320.20 before transporting them across state lines, regardless of the reason, including hunting or range trips.

How do I submit ATF Form 5320.20?

ATF Form 5320.20 must be submitted in duplicate to the ATF's NFA Division in Martinsburg, WV. You can mail, fax, or email the form. Ensure all signatures are in ink, while other entries can be typed or in ink.

What happens if I don't get ATF approval before transporting my NFA item?

Failing to obtain ATF approval via Form 5320.20 before transporting regulated NFA items across state lines can lead to significant legal consequences, including criminal liability. This applies even if you are simply moving to a new state.

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