This is not legal advice. All opinions and facts presented below should be verified, as we may be incorrect and/or laws may change. Contact us if you believe any of this information should be amended.
If you have never purchased a gun before you may be surprised to find that you can buy one online. There is one caveat, before receiving your gun it must be shipped to an FFL (Federal Firearms License Holder) and held while your background check is completed. This usually takes less than 15 minutes including filling out necessary paperwork. Paperwork will be provided, but if you are looking for a preview, see: VSP SP-65 (alt) and ATF-4473 (alt).
If you are a Virginia resident, who is not otherwise prohibited (violent felons, etc.) then you may purchase any kind of firearm online. As of June 1 2020, there is a restriction on the number of handguns you may purchase in a 30 day period, although there are notable exceptions to this rule. All you will need to transfer your gun is a state photo ID (drivers license). If you are not a Virginia resident, see our article on non/dual resident transfers.
Virginia requires that your ID be more than 30 days old or for you to have a copy of your driving record indicating that your ID is a replacement for an original older than 30 days. The ATF requires that your ID have your current address. If your ID does not have your current address, you may provide an additional government issued ID.
We are listed on many online sales sites as an FFL to ship to. If you are ordering from a retailer and do not see an option to input or pick an FFL, proceed with the order and they will likely contact you. If you see a list of FFLs, but do not see us listed then please contact us or the retailer.