Timing Question: 03 FFL + COE

[scbauer]

Couldn’t find this (although I’m sure someone will point out an obvious place to find it)... if I’m going to get an 03FFL and COE, should I wait to get the 03 first, then apply for the Certificate of Eligibility? Should I get the COE first? Perhaps it doesn’t matter and I send in both applications at the same time?

Thanks all.

[UPDATES - timeline]

• 6/20 - did LiveScan in the afternoon
• 6/20 - completes online COE application
• 6/21 - dropped completed 03 application (and CLEO copy) in the mail
• 6/21 - got COE approval notice on CFARS
• 6/26 - ATF processed my 03 payment
• 8/17 - Received my 03 paperwork from the FFLC

So from start to finish, it took 58 days. 57 days from when I dropped the paperwork (and check) in the mail to approval paperwork showing up.

Time to start collecting!

[LCU1670]

Doesn't matter, do what's easiest for your schedule..ffl takes the longest to get back, COE is faster.

[vino68]

Also do the COE on line, do not use snail mail. Doing it online, the COE will be done in 24-48 business hours.

[rice_man]

Doesn't matter, do what's easiest for your schedule..ffl takes the longest to get back, COE is faster.

This ^^ They are independent of each other so it doesn't matter.

[scbauer]

Thanks everyone!

[scbauer]

Okay, I’m really surprised at California right now. I decided to move forward with an 03 FFL and COE. I did the LiveScan yesterday and filled out the COE application online, all during my lunch break. Figured I would hear in a few weeks. Turns out, it was already approved. Less than 24 hours. Amazing! Nothing moves this fast in California, especially not government stuff... and ESPECIALLY if it’s relates to guns.

[TKM]

Mine are about six months out of sync. Just keep them in a file with the expiration dates marked in BIG sharpie so you don't get surprised.

You kids can probably file an Ithingy to remind you once you get off my lawn.

[scbauer]

Mine are about six months out of sync. Just keep them in a file with the expiration dates marked in BIG sharpie so you don't get surprised.

You kids can probably file an Ithingy to remind you once you get off my lawn.

[scbauer]

(keeping a log here for people who are curious)

I just checked my bank account... ATF cashed my check on 6/26, 5 calendar days and the 3rd business day after dropping the application in the mail. Pretty sure the application was in their office on Monday afternoon AT THE EARLIEST, likely Tuesday, so they processed the payment the day after they received the application. Good for them!

So, the assumption then is they received the application on 6/25.

Now, anyone know current processing times? Am I looking at 21 days? 90 days?More?

[Cortelli]

In the past, from my own experience and watching other reports here, I get the feeling that they issues licenses in batches rather than individually as received. Depending on where you hit in the cycle of might be 21 days or 2+ months or somewhere inbetween.

[scbauer]

And we’re done! Paperwork arrived yesterday in the mail. 57 days from when I mailed my 03 application.