Filling out the ATF FD-258 fingerprint card correctly is important for successful background checks related to firearms, federal licensing, and other legal processes. The official form is issued by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Thus, it requires accurate details and properly rolled fingerprints.
What is an FD-258 Fingerprint Card?
The FD-258 fingerprint card is a standardized form used across the United States by law enforcement agencies, licensing authorities, and federal entities like ATF. This card is required for identity verification and background checks required for employment in sensitive areas, immigration cases, and more.
Issued by the FBI and the ATF, FD-258 is a hard-copy fingerprint submission card featuring space for ten individually rolled fingerprints and a set of flat impressions. Along with fingerprint impressions, the card requires personal information like full name, date of birth, social security number, citizenship, gender, race, height, weight, eye color, and reasons for fingerprinting.
Purpose of the ATF Background Check
The ATF background check serves as a critical safeguard to ensure that individuals involved with firearms or explosives are legally eligible and pose no threat to public security. The main purposes of ATF background checks are:
- Screening for Federal Firearms Licenses (FFLs): Individuals applying for an FFL must pass an in-depth background investigation to verify their eligibility and intent. The ATF uses the FD-258 fingerprint card to perform fingerprint-based checks with the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS). Thus helping to identify any hidden criminal records.
- Verifying Identity in Firearm-Related Trusts: In cases where a trust or legal entity is used to purchase NFA (National Firearms Act) items like silencers or machine guns, each person must submit a fingerprint card. Thus, it ensures the ATF thoroughly vets every individual associated with the entity.
ATF Fingerprint Cards for NFA Transfer
National Firearm Act (NFA) items such as silencers, short-barreled rifles, and machine guns are strictly regulated by the ATF. To legally transfer or possess an NFA item, individuals must go through a comprehensive application process that includes submitting a fingerprint card: the ATF FD-258.
- Required for All Responsible Reasons: When applying for an NFA item via Form 1 (manufacture) or Form 4 (transfer), all persons – whether trustees, individuals, or members of an entity must submit an FD-258 fingerprint card. Furthermore, it includes corporations, trusts, and other legal entities where more than one person controls or manages the authority over the firearms.
- Support the FBI Background Check for NFA Items: The fingerprints on the FD-258 cards are forwarded to the FBI to conduct a comprehensive criminal background check. Such steps ensure the applicant is legally eligible to own or possess highly regulated weapons. The FBI checks against multiple databases, including the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS).
- Renewal and Transfers Require Resubmission: If an NFA item is transferred or reassigned, even within the same trust or entity, new fingerprint cards are required. Thus, it ensures that the ATF maintains updated identification records of all parties involved.
Why is Fingerprinting Required for Federal Licensing and Permits?
Fingerprinting offers a unique biometric identifier that cannot be altered or faked like traditional documents. While applying for a federal license or permit, fingerprinting ensures the applicant is truly who they claim to be. Thus, it prevents fraud and impersonation.
- Enables Comprehensive FBI Background Checks: Federal agencies use fingerprint submissions to run an individual’s information through the FBI’s Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS). Such a system compares prints against millions of criminals and civil records, including arrests, convictions, and outstanding warrants. It is the most reliable way to assess an applicant’s criminal history across all 50 states.
- Required by Law for Certain Federal Permits: Under the U.S. Code Title 18, anyone applying for a Federal Firearms License (FFL) or explosive materials permit must submit fingerprints to the ATF. This legal requirement allows federal agents to vet applicants thoroughly before issuing high-risk licenses.
To Sum Up
Properly completing the FD-258 card is essential for passing ATF fingerprinting requirements tied to federal licenses and NFA transfers. By ensuring accurate information and clean fingerprint impressions, applicants can avoid delays and comply with legal standards.
