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Learn The NFA Process

Purchasing a suppressor involves a federally regulated process. While it may seem complex at first, our team and your Class 3 FFL / SOT dealer guide you through each step to ensure everything is completed correctly and compliantly.

This page explains what to expect before and after purchase, including paperwork, timelines, and how we support you throughout the process.

You do not need prior experience with NFA-regulated items.

Step: 1

Complete Your Purchase

Choose the suppressor that fits your firearm and intended use. Once your order is placed, the suppressor remains securely held until federal approval is granted.

No paperwork is submitted before purchase.

Step: 2

Select & Notify Your Class 3 FFL

After purchasing your suppressor, you’ll work with a Class 3 FFL / SOT dealer of your choosing to complete the transfer.

What to do:

  • Contact your selected Class 3 FFL / SOT dealer
  • Let them know you’ll be transferring a GDM® suppressor through their shop

Your suppressor will remain secured until all required approvals are completed.

Step: 3

Determine Your Registration Type

Suppressors can be registered in one of three ways:

  • Individual
  • Trust
  • Corporation

Your FFL & SOT dealer will review your paperwork with you and confirm that everything is completed correctly for your chosen registration method.

All required documentation applies to you and any responsible persons listed on a trust or corporation.

Step: 4

Complete ATF Form 4 (5320.4)

The ATF Form 4 is the Application for Tax Paid Transfer and Registration of Firearm.

You will need to:

Your dealer will review these forms before submission.

Step: 5

Photos & Fingerprints

Passport Photos

  • Obtain two (2) passport-style photos
  • Passport photos may be obtained through:
    • Your local Walgreens, Walmart, CVS, FedEx Office, or U.S. Post Office 
    • Or by completing them yourself using approved instructions
  • Affix one photo to each Form 4 using paperclips
  • Do not staple

Fingerprints

Accuracy matters — take your time.

Step: 6

Identify Your Cleo

You’ll need to identify your local Chief Law Enforcement Officer (CLEO).

  • Obtain their correct mailing address
  • A copy of your paperwork must be provided to them as required by law

Your dealer can assist if you’re unsure who qualifies as your CLEO.

Step: 7

Tax Stamp Payment

Suppressor transfers require a $0.00 federal tax stamp.

Step: 8

Submit Paperwork

Once submitted, your application enters federal review.

  • Approval times vary
  • Typical timelines range from several weeks to several months
  • Processing speed is outside the control of GDM® and your dealer

If you haven’t received an update after six months, it’s reasonable to check in with your Class 3 FFL / SOT dealer.

Step: 9

Wait For Federal Approval

Using your dealer’s mailing checklist, the following items are submitted:

Items Sent to the ATF (BATFE)

  • Original ATF Form 4s (5320.4)
  • Two completed FBI fingerprint cards (FD-258)
  • Passport photos affixed to Form 4s
  • $0 tax stamp payment

Items Provided to CLEO

  • Photocopy of ATF Form 4 (5320.4)

Your dealer will confirm everything is prepared correctly before submission.

Step: 10

Final Transfer & Pickup

Once approved:

  • Your FFL & SOT dealer will notify you
  • You’ll complete ATF Form 4473 at their location
  • Your suppressor is transferred to you, completing the process

Congratulations — ownership is finalized.

Important Considerations

  • Approval timelines vary and cannot be expedited
  • State and local laws may apply
  • Suppressors cannot be transferred prior to approval
  • Our team and your dealer are available throughout the process

Frequently ASked Questions

Yes. Suppressors are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and require a federal tax stamp prior to transfer. After purchase, our team and your Class 3 FFL / SOT dealer assist with the required paperwork and guide you through the process.

Yes. Our team and your Class 3 FFL / SOT dealer provide clear guidance to help ensure all required forms are completed accurately.

We cannot ship to the following states: CA, DC, DE, HI, IL, MA, NJ, NY, or RI.

Suppressors can only be shipped to an authorized FFL / SOT dealer. You are responsible for contacting your Class 3 FFL / SOT dealer to discuss their fees and pickup processes.

During the checkout process, please enter an FFL / SOT dealer’s address in the shipping address fields where you wish the suppressors to be shipped. Entering a personal residence in the shipping address fields can result in the order being cancelled.

Approval times vary based on the federal review process and submission method. Most approvals take several weeks to several months. While the timeline is outside our control, our team and your Class 3 FFL / SOT dealer assist throughout the process and keep you informed.

A Clear Process, Supported Every Step

While the NFA process involves several steps, you are not expected to navigate it alone.
Our team and your FFL / SOT dealer work together to help ensure everything is completed correctly and compliantly.

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