Moving to a new state? Good news about your fingerprints—they don't change. Here's what you actually need to do.
In This Guide
Your Fingerprints: No Change Needed
Your fingerprints are a biometric identifier tied to YOU, not your address. When you move:
- ✓ Your fingerprints stay the same
- ✓ No need to get re-fingerprinted
- ✓ No need to update fingerprint records
Your EFT File: Still Valid
Your existing EFT file works regardless of where you live:
- ✓ No state-specific format
- ✓ Use for applications from any state
- ✓ No expiration or address requirement
Example: Got fingerprinted in Texas, moved to Florida. Your Texas-converted EFT file works perfectly for Florida NFA applications.
What You Actually Need to Do
1. Notify ATF of Interstate Transport (Form 5320.20)
Before moving NFA items across state lines, file Form 5320.20:
- Required for suppressors, SBRs, SBSs, AOWs, DDs
- Submit before you move
- Wait for approval (can take weeks)
- Keep approved form with the items
Note: Form 5320.20 is NOT required for suppressors under certain interpretations, but many recommend filing anyway to be safe. Consult current ATF guidance.
2. Verify State Laws
Confirm your NFA items are legal in the new state:
- Some states ban suppressors, SBRs, or SBSs
- Some have additional registration requirements
- Check before you move, not after
3. Update Your Address for Future Applications
When filing new Form 1 or Form 4:
- Use your new address
- Update CLEO notification to new jurisdiction
- Same EFT file, new address on form
4. NFA Trust Updates (If Applicable)
If you have an NFA trust:
- Update trust address if required by trust document
- Responsible persons don't need new fingerprints
- Add/remove trustees if needed based on new state
Moving to Restricted States
States with NFA Restrictions
If moving to a state that bans certain NFA items:
- California: No suppressors, SBRs, SBSs
- New York: No suppressors, SBRs
- Massachusetts: Very restricted
- Hawaii: No NFA items
- And others...
Your Options
- Sell before moving - Transfer to buyer in legal state
- Store out of state - Leave with friend/family in legal state
- Transfer to trust with out-of-state trustee - Complex, consult attorney
What NOT to Do
- ❌ Bring banned NFA items into restricted state
- ❌ Assume it will be fine
- ❌ Try to hide items
Illegal NFA possession is a federal felony. Plan ahead.
PCS Moves (Military)
Military members with PCS orders have the same requirements:
- File Form 5320.20 for interstate transport
- Verify new duty station state allows your items
- Keep EFT file for future applications
- Consider leaving items with family if moving to restricted state
