Washington State FFL Transfer Guide: Laws, Fees & Finding a Local FFL

Washington State has passed some of the most significant firearms legislation in the country over the past several years. If you’re buying a gun online and having it transferred through a Washington FFL, you need to understand the mandatory waiting period for semi-automatic rifles, the universal background check requirement, and the state’s assault weapons regulations before your firearm ships.

Washington FFL Transfer: How It Works

Like all states, Washington requires that firearms purchased from out-of-state sellers ship to a licensed FFL dealer for the transfer. The process:

1. Choose a Washington FFL dealer and obtain their license information
2. Provide the FFL’s details to your online seller
3. Seller ships to the FFL (firearms cannot ship to your home)
4. FFL notifies you when the gun arrives
5. Complete ATF Form 4473 and pass the enhanced state/federal background check
6. For semi-automatic rifles: wait out the mandatory 10-business-day waiting period
7. Take possession of your firearm

Washington Waiting Periods

Washington has tiered waiting periods based on firearm type:

• Semi-automatic rifles: 10 business days (not calendar days)
• Handguns: Dealers must wait until they receive a return approval from the background check system before delivering — this functions similarly to a waiting period in practice
• Non-semi-automatic long guns: No mandatory waiting period beyond background check clearance

The 10-business-day wait for semi-automatic rifles is among the longest in the country. Plan accordingly — a firearm that arrives at your FFL on a Monday won’t be ready for pickup until the following Monday at the earliest (excluding holidays).

Washington Background Check: Enhanced Requirements

Washington runs background checks through the Washington State Patrol in addition to NICS. Initiative 594 (passed 2014) mandated universal background checks for all firearm sales and transfers, including private sales — any transfer, including through an FFL, goes through this enhanced system.

The state check cross-references additional databases including domestic violence records, mental health commitments, and restraining orders that may not appear in the federal NICS system.

Semi-Automatic Assault Rifle Restrictions

Washington passed I-1639 in 2018, which created the category of “semi-automatic assault rifle” — defined broadly as any semi-automatic rifle capable of accepting a detachable magazine. This includes AR-15s, AK-pattern rifles, and most modern sporting rifles. Requirements for these purchases:

• Purchaser must be 21 or older (up from 18 for other long guns)
• Enhanced background check required
• 10-business-day mandatory waiting period
• Proof of firearms safety training required (certificate from an approved course or equivalent)
• Dealer must verify training certificate prior to sale

Standard bolt-action and lever-action rifles do not fall under this category and face fewer restrictions.

FFL Transfer Fees in Washington

Washington FFL dealers typically charge $30–$65 for transfers, with averages around $35–$50. Seattle metro dealers tend to charge more than rural areas. Key questions to ask:

• What is the transfer fee? Is it different for semi-auto rifles vs. handguns vs. bolt guns?
• How do you handle the 10-day wait — do you charge for holding beyond that?
• Is the background check fee included?
• Do you verify the training certificate, and can you do that before my firearm ships?

Washington Firearms Laws Snapshot

• Magazine capacity limit: Washington passed a ban on magazines over 10 rounds in 2022 — manufacturing and importing are banned; existing mags grandfathered but sale restrictions apply
• Assault weapons ban: Washington passed one of the country’s strictest assault weapons bans in 2023 (HB 1240), banning sale and manufacture of assault weapons; enforcement and legal challenges ongoing as of 2026
• Open carry: Generally legal without a permit, but restricted in many public places
• Concealed carry: License required (shall-issue through county sheriff)
• NFA items: Suppressors are legal with federal paperwork; short-barreled rifles/shotguns legal with NFA approval

Finding an FFL Dealer in Washington

Washington has a strong network of dealers, particularly in the Puget Sound area and along the I-5 corridor. Many dealers are very familiar with I-1639 requirements and can walk first-time buyers through the training certificate process. If you’re purchasing a semi-automatic rifle, ask the dealer if they can verify your training certificate in advance of the firearm’s arrival to avoid delays at pickup.

Find an FFL Dealer Near You →

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an FFL transfer take in Washington?

For semi-automatic rifles: minimum 10 business days from when the FFL initiates the transfer. For handguns: until the background check returns an approval. For other long guns: as soon as the background check clears.

Do I need a training certificate to buy a semi-auto rifle in Washington?

Yes. I-1639 requires proof of a completed firearms safety training course for any purchase of a “semi-automatic assault rifle.” Your FFL dealer must verify this before completing the transfer.

Are AR-15s legal in Washington?

This is a rapidly evolving legal landscape. The 2023 assault weapons ban (HB 1240) prohibits sale and manufacture, but litigation is ongoing. Consult a Washington firearms attorney or check the Washington State Patrol’s current guidance before purchasing.

Does Washington have universal background checks?

Yes. I-594 requires background checks for all firearm transfers, including private sales. Any transfer must go through a licensed dealer, even between two private individuals.

Can I buy a handgun in Washington at 18?

You must be 21 to purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer under federal law. Washington mirrors this requirement.

Are suppressors legal in Washington?

Yes. NFA items including suppressors are legal in Washington with proper federal approval. Your FFL handles the transfer once ATF approves your Form 4 application.

Washington is one of the more regulated states for firearm purchases, but buyers who understand the process aren’t caught off guard. Know your waiting period, have your training certificate ready if buying a semi-automatic rifle, and find a dealer experienced with the state’s enhanced background check system.