Approved for my 01 FFL - Working on the next steps

[Spectre1995]

Hey all,

After years of battling, I finally got approved for my home based 01 FFL. Now I'm on to the next steps - I know I need to apply for the CLFD. Is that something I can do online, or do I have to print that form out and mail it in?

My IOI informed me that the DOJ may have to come out and do their own interview, much like the ATF did during my application process. Is there anything I should be expecting that will be different than the ATF interview? Approximately how long is the wait to get DOJ approval once I send everything in?

I already have my COE, local business license, and the FFL will be arriving within the next couple weeks. I believe that the last steps are the CLFD, CFLC, and the Instructor's course. Am I missing anything?

[Tyke8319]

Fictitious Business license...maybe

[Nardo1895]

I did not have a DOJ interview when I first got my FFL, but I did have a DOJ inspection within the first year.

I'm pretty sure the State application for the CLFD was handled by my local business licensing agency - County Sherriff in my case, but its been a while and can't be sure. I may be getting that confused with the second hand dealers license, speaking of which...

You will want to get a second hand dealers license if you plan to sell anything on consignment. Not required for you to buy and sell used guns, but you will need it for consignments.

I don't recall how long it took for DOJ to approve my application. I want to say I got my FFL in April and had DOJ approval by June. But that was about 6 years ago and workload at DOJ seems to have increased considerably.

[sass2924]

Install cameras and a recording device in the area you will be conducting business.

SB 1384 requires licensed California firearms dealers to include audio surveillance in their security systems by January 1, 2024.
On Friday September 30th, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed State Bill 1384 adding Section 26806 to the Penal Code that requires licensed California firearms dealers ensure that their business premises are monitored by a digital video surveillance system and that they “Clearly record images and, for systems located inside the premises, audio, of the area under surveillance.”

[ronlglock]

Fictitious Business license...maybe

Better to have an LLC to lock your liability away from your person.

[0321 U.S.M.C]

I didnt have a DOJ inspection but had one about 18 months in, CLFD was local sheriff's office and the easiest of all to get, they printed it out right then and walked out with it. you'll need a reasale certificate to set up accounts, and they should have told you not to sign your original FFL make copies to sign.

[Nardo1895]

Better to have an LLC to lock your liability away from your person.

That can be difficult for a home based FFL. Its been a while since I checked but as I recall the annual cost was pretty high. Although thinking back I came to that conclusion before I priced insurance. I may need to check that again...

Either way, LLC and/or insurance, you do need to protect yourself. Homeowner insurance won't cover you.

[Achelous]

Setting up an LLC is a good idea to separate the business from the personal. Liability insurance is legally required after mid 2023, but a home FFL should have it anyway.

There can be some modest initial legal costs in setting up an LLC, but more importantly, there is an $800 / year annual tax for companies up to $250K / year in revenue. If your LLC will make more than $250K/year, other tax rules come into play.

https://www.ftb.ca.gov/file/business...any/index.html

[weekend_fun]

LFL (Local Firearms License) reflected within the Business License is essential in most areas.