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Type 09 FFL: Dealer in Destructive Devices

A Type 09 FFL is the license for a dealer in destructive devices. Destructive devices are a specific category of firearms and munitions that a standard dealer license does not cover, which is why they require their own license. This guide explains what a Type 09 covers and how it relates to the National Firearms Act.

What a Type 09 FFL is

The Type 09 authorizes the holder to deal in destructive devices. Destructive devices are a defined category that includes certain large-bore firearms and munitions that fall outside the ordinary rifles, shotguns, and handguns a Type 01 dealer handles. Because of that, dealing in them requires the dedicated Type 09 license.

What a Type 09 lets you do

  • Deal in destructive devices as a business.
  • Deal in firearms other than destructive devices as well, since the Type 09 is a broad dealer license.
  • Run background checks and complete ATF Form 4473 on transfers to non-licensees.

Destructive devices and the NFA

Many destructive devices are also National Firearms Act items. A Type 09 dealer that transfers NFA destructive devices registers as a Class 3 Special Occupational Taxpayer and pays the annual SOT tax, which covers dealing in NFA items on top of the license.

Specialized category

The Type 09 is far less common than the everyday dealer licenses because destructive devices are a narrow, heavily regulated category. Most gun stores never need one.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is a destructive device?

A destructive device is a defined category that includes certain large-bore firearms and munitions that fall outside ordinary rifles, shotguns, and handguns. Dealing in them requires a Type 09 license.

Does a Type 09 also cover ordinary firearms?

Yes. The Type 09 is a broad dealer license that covers destructive devices and also allows dealing in firearms other than destructive devices.

Is an SOT required for a Type 09?

When the destructive devices are National Firearms Act items, the dealer registers as a Class 3 Special Occupational Taxpayer to transfer them. The exact requirement depends on the items handled.

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