ATF Form 1 Fingerprint Requirements
Building your own SBR, SBS, or suppressor? The ATF eForm 1 requires electronic fingerprints (EFT format) for approval. Here's your complete guide to meeting Form 1 fingerprint requirements.
Convert Your Fingerprints →What is ATF Form 1?
ATF Form 1 (Application to Make and Register a Firearm) is required when you want to manufacture an NFA item, including:
- Short Barreled Rifles (SBR) - Rifles with barrels under 16"
- Short Barreled Shotguns (SBS) - Shotguns with barrels under 18"
- Suppressors - Homemade silencers (Form 1 cans)
- Any Other Weapons (AOW) - Various configurations
Unlike Form 4 (for transfers), Form 1 is for items you're making yourself. The fingerprint requirements are the same for both forms.
Form 1 eFile Process
1 Get Fingerprinted
Get your fingerprints taken on an FD-258 card at a local law enforcement office, UPS Store, or roll them yourself at home.
2 Convert to EFT
Scan or photograph your FD-258 card and convert it to electronic EFT format using our converter. This takes about 2 minutes.
3 Submit eForm 1
Log into the ATF eForms system, complete your Form 1, upload your EFT file, and submit. Current wait times are typically 30-90 days. (Note: The $200 tax stamp was eliminated in January 2026.)
4 Build Your NFA Item
Once approved, you can legally manufacture your SBR, SBS, or suppressor. Keep your approved Form 1 with the firearm.
Ready to File Your Form 1?
Convert your FD-258 to EFT format. $10, instant delivery, reusable for future builds.
Convert NowForm 1 vs Form 4: What's the Difference?
Both forms require the same fingerprint format (EFT), but they serve different purposes:
- Form 1 - For manufacturing NFA items yourself
- Form 4 - For transferring existing NFA items from a dealer
Many enthusiasts use Form 1 for SBR builds (adding a stock to a pistol) and homemade suppressors, while Form 4 is used when purchasing manufactured suppressors from dealers.
The good news: One EFT file works for both Form 1 and Form 4 submissions, so you only need to convert your fingerprints once.
Common Form 1 Questions
How long does Form 1 approval take?
eForm 1 approvals currently take 30-90 days on average. Paper Form 1 submissions take significantly longer (6-12 months), which is why eFiling is strongly recommended.
Can I start my build before approval?
No. You must wait for Form 1 approval before manufacturing your NFA item. Manufacturing before approval is a federal felony.
Is there still a tax stamp?
No. As of January 2026, the $200 NFA tax stamp has been eliminated. Your only cost is fingerprint conversion ($10 with SlapEFT).
Get Your EFT File Today
Don't let fingerprints hold up your Form 1. Convert now and file today.
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