ATF Proposes to Drop Pre-Approval for Interstate Transport of Regulated Firearms

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives is proposing to let people transport their registered National Firearms Act (NFA) firearms across state lines without asking for permission first. Under the current rules, anyone moving a destructive device, machine gun, short-barreled shotgun, or short-barreled rifle must submit ATF Form 5320.20 and wait for individual approval before crossing state lines. The proposed rule would replace that step with a general authorization, as long as the trip lasts 365 days or fewer, serves a lawful purpose, and the firearm is legal to possess at the destination.

Why it matters: This would cut down on paperwork and waiting time for collectors, hunters, and competitive shooters who move regulated firearms to ranges, tournaments, or family homes in other states. It also shifts the burden of checking destination state laws from a federal form to the traveler. The change is largely administrative, but it could affect how law enforcement verifies registration status during roadside stops or investigations.

Who it affects

• Owners of National Firearms Act weapons (machine guns, short-barreled rifles/shotguns, destructive devices)

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This is a proposed rule published by the Justice Department’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives in the Federal Register; the agency is accepting public comments and has not finalized the policy.

Agency: Justice Department, Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Bureau
Source: Federal Register — read the official document