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Type 11 FFL: Importer of Destructive Devices

A Type 11 FFL is the license for an importer of destructive devices, ammunition for destructive devices, and armor-piercing ammunition. It is the import counterpart to the Type 10 manufacturing license and covers categories the ordinary importer license does not. This guide explains what a Type 11 authorizes.

What a Type 11 FFL is

The Type 11 authorizes importing destructive devices, ammunition for destructive devices, and armor-piercing ammunition. These categories fall outside what a Type 08 importer of ordinary firearms may bring in, so importing them requires 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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