Delaware Firearm Bill of Sale Overview
Delaware enacted universal background checks in 2013, requiring all private firearm sales to go through a licensed dealer or use the Delaware State Police background check system. There is no waiting period and no firearm registration requirement.
All private sales must be conducted through an FFL who runs a background check through the Delaware State Police. Exceptions exist for transfers between family members. Delaware issues Concealed Deadly Weapon Licenses (CDWL) through the Court of Common Pleas.
Delaware bans assault weapons (enacted 2022) and magazines over 17 rounds. The state has a red flag law and requires reporting of lost or stolen firearms. Delaware also prohibits 3D-printed and undetectable firearms.
Yes
Private sale BG check
None
Waiting period
No
Registration required
No
Permit to purchase
Delaware Firearm Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know about firearm transfers in Delaware:
Important: Background Check Required
Delaware requires background checks for private firearm sales. All transfers must be conducted through a licensed dealer. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in criminal penalties. Even with a background check, it is illegal to sell to a known prohibited person.
Seller Requirements
- FFL Transfer: Delaware requires private sales to go through a licensed dealer for a background check
- Both Parties Present: Both buyer and seller must appear at the FFL with valid identification
- Bill of Sale: Complete a bill of sale documenting the firearm and transaction details
- No Prohibited Buyers: Do not sell to anyone you know or suspect is prohibited from possessing firearms
Buyer Requirements
- Delaware Residency: Must be a current Delaware resident with valid state ID
- Background Check: Must pass a background check processed through the FFL
- Not Prohibited: Must not be a prohibited person under federal or state law
- Retain Bill of Sale: Keep your copy as proof of legal purchase and ownership
How to Fill Out a Delaware Firearm Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Delaware firearm bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with Delaware and federal requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, current Delaware mailing address, date of birth, and government-issued ID number (driver's license or state ID). This information is critical for establishing a clear chain of custody for the firearm.
Enter Buyer Information
Include the buyer's full legal name, current Delaware address, date of birth, and ID number. Verify the buyer's ID is valid and current. Confirm the buyer is a Delaware resident — selling to an out-of-state resident in a private sale is a federal crime.
Describe the Firearm
Record the firearm's make (manufacturer), model, serial number, caliber or gauge, type (handgun, rifle, shotgun), barrel length, and finish/color. The serial number is the most important identifier — verify it matches the physical firearm exactly.
State the Sale Price
Enter the agreed purchase price in both numbers and words. Note the payment method. If the firearm is a gift, write "$0 — Gift." If a trade, describe the items exchanged.
Include Eligibility Statement
The buyer should sign a statement affirming they are legally eligible to purchase and possess firearms under both federal and Delaware law, that they are not a prohibited person, and that they are a resident of Delaware.
Sign, Date, and Keep Copies
Both parties must sign and date the bill of sale. Print at least two copies — one for each party. Keep your copy indefinitely as there is no statute of limitations on ATF firearm traces. Remember that the transfer must also be processed through an FFL with a background check.
Delaware Firearm Transfer Process
Delaware requires private firearm transfers to include a background check. Here's the step-by-step process:
Verify Both Parties' Eligibility
Check IDs to confirm both parties are Delaware residents and of legal age. The seller should have no reason to believe the buyer is a prohibited person.
Visit a Licensed Dealer (FFL)
Both parties must appear at an FFL. The dealer will process the background check as required by Delaware law.
Complete Background Check
The FFL will run a background check. If approved, the transfer can proceed.
Complete and Sign the Bill of Sale
Fill in all fields including the serial number, both parties' information, and the sale price. Both parties sign and date.
Exchange Payment and Firearm
Complete the payment and transfer the firearm. Each party keeps their signed copy of the bill of sale.
Store Your Records Securely
Keep your copy of the bill of sale in a safe place indefinitely. This is your proof of legal transfer if the firearm is ever traced.
Delaware Firearm Transfer Fees & Costs
Here are the typical costs associated with a private firearm transfer in Delaware:
| Fee / Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Background Check Fee | Varies ($10-$40 typically) |
| FFL Transfer Fee | $10-$75 (set by dealer) |
| Firearm Registration | Not required |
| Carry Permit | Varies — contact issuing agency |
Sample Delaware Firearm Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Delaware-specific firearm bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by Delaware and federal law.
STATE OF DELAWARE
FIREARM BILL OF SALE
Private Party Firearm Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [Delaware Address]
DOB: [Date of Birth] ID#: [DL Number]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [Delaware Address]
DOB: [Date of Birth] ID#: [DL Number]
FIREARM INFORMATION
Make: [Manufacturer] Model: [Model]
Serial #: [Serial Number]
Caliber: [Cal/Gauge] Type: [Handgun/Rifle/Shotgun]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Delaware Firearm Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Delaware firearm bills of sale, private transfers, and state requirements.
Official Delaware Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify Delaware firearm transfer requirements and access government information.
Other Delaware Bill of Sale Templates
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