What if a licensee receives a “denied” response from NICS or a state POC after 3 business days have elapsed, but prior to the transfer of the firearm?

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If the licensee receives a “denied” response at any time prior to the transfer of the firearm, the licensee may not transfer the firearm.

If the FBI provides a “denied” response after the third business day, and the firearm has already been transferred, the licensee should notify the NICS Section by phone at 1-877-FBI-NICS (324-6427) or by email at nics_upeg@fbi.gov.

[18 U.S.C. 922(d); 27 CFR 478.99(c)]

Last Reviewed March 24, 2021