What is a 4473?

Form 4473 contains the purchaser's name, address, date of birth, government-issued photo ID, National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) background check transaction number, and a short affidavit stating that the purchaser is eligible to purchase firearms under federal law. It usually only takes 10-15 minutes and can be done online. If you have a license to carry (LTC) then the background check is not required, but a 4473 will still be filled out.

Who can purchase a firearm in Texas?

In Texas, anyone who is at least 21 years old can generally purchase a handgun or handgun ammunition. For long guns (rifles and shotguns), the minimum age is 18. Additionally, individuals must be legally permitted to own a firearm under both federal and Texas state laws, meaning they cannot have a felony conviction, certain domestic violence misdemeanors, or be adjudicated as a danger to themselves or others. 

I’ve never shot a gun before

I am a certified NRA handgun instructor and I am happy to help you with training and handgun selection. Please click on “New Shooters” above.