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Type 11 FFL: Importer of Destructive Devices

If your business imports destructive devices, ammunition for them, or armor-piercing ammunition, you need a Type 11 FFL. An ordinary importer license doesn't cover those categories. The Type 11 is the import counterpart to the Type 10 manufacturing license.

What a Type 11 FFL is

The Type 11 lets you import destructive devices, ammunition for destructive devices, and armor-piercing ammunition. A Type 08 importer of ordinary firearms can't bring in these categories. They require the dedicated Type 11 license.

What a Type 11 lets you do

  • Import destructive devices, subject to approval.
  • Import ammunition for destructive devices and armor-piercing ammunition.
  • Deal in the destructive devices and ammunition it imports.

Import approval and the NFA

As with any import license, bringing destructive devices into the country requires approval before they enter. Many destructive devices are also National Firearms Act items, so a Type 11 importer that handles NFA items registers as a Class 1 Special Occupational Taxpayer. See our ATF forms guide for the import application involved.

Rare and specialized

The Type 11 is among the least common licenses. It applies to importers of defense-oriented and specialty munitions, not to typical firearm retailers or importers.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What does a Type 11 FFL cover that a Type 08 does not?

A Type 11 adds destructive devices, ammunition for destructive devices, and armor-piercing ammunition. A Type 08 covers importing firearms other than destructive devices and does not authorize those categories.

Does a Type 11 need import approval?

Yes. Like any importer, a Type 11 holder obtains approval before importing, and importability depends on the specific items and applicable rules.

Is an SOT required for a Type 11?

When the imported items are National Firearms Act destructive devices, the importer registers as a Class 1 Special Occupational Taxpayer. The requirement depends on the specific items.

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