With the passage of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), FFLs will, after acquiring an individual’s written consent, have the authority to perform a voluntary National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check on current and prospective employees. The NICS Section is referring to this new use of the NICS as “firearm handler checks.”

The BSCA requires the Attorney General to promulgate regulations for this purpose. The NICS Section continues to work with FBI office of General Counsel and the DOJ to advance potential regulatory language for firearm handler checks.

While in process, NICS may not be utilized for employee background checks at this time. The NICS Section will send ample notification regarding the implementation date for this new use of the NICS. Until that time, please note the NICS may not be accessed for this purpose.

For questions, please contact nicsliaison@fbi.gov or call (844) 265-6716.