New Jersey Firearm Bill of Sale Overview
New Jersey has among the strictest firearm laws in the nation. All buyers must possess a Firearms Purchaser Identification Card (FPID). Handgun purchases additionally require a separate Permit to Purchase for each handgun. All sales must go through an FFL with a background check through the New Jersey State Police.
The FPID card requires application to local police, background check, fingerprinting, references, and can take 30-90 days to process. Each Permit to Purchase Handgun requires a separate application and is valid for 90 days (with extensions). All handguns are registered at time of purchase. New Jersey issues Permits to Carry Handguns through local law enforcement.
New Jersey bans assault firearms (specific models and features), magazines over 10 rounds, hollow-point ammunition for carry (with exceptions), .50 BMG rifles, and certain other weapons. The state has a red flag law and requires safe storage of firearms. New Jersey is one of the most regulated states for firearm ownership.
Yes
Private sale BG check
7 days (processing time)
Waiting period
Yes
Registration required
Yes
Permit to purchase
New Jersey Firearm Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know about firearm transfers in New Jersey:
Important: Background Check Required
New Jersey 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: New Jersey 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
- New Jersey Residency: Must be a current New Jersey resident with valid state ID
- Purchase Permit: Yes (FID card + Permit to Purchase for each handgun) — obtain before initiating the purchase
- 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 New Jersey Firearm Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your New Jersey firearm bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with New Jersey and federal requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, current New Jersey 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 New Jersey address, date of birth, and ID number. Verify the buyer's ID is valid and current. Confirm the buyer is a New Jersey 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 New Jersey law, that they are not a prohibited person, and that they are a resident of New Jersey.
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.
New Jersey Firearm Transfer Process
New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey law.
Complete Background Check
The FFL will run a background check. There is a 7 days (processing time) waiting period before the buyer can take possession.
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.
New Jersey Firearm Transfer Fees & Costs
Here are the typical costs associated with a private firearm transfer in New Jersey:
| Fee / Cost | Amount |
|---|---|
| Background Check Fee | Varies ($10-$40 typically) |
| FFL Transfer Fee | $10-$75 (set by dealer) |
| Registration Fee | Varies by jurisdiction |
| Carry Permit | Varies — contact issuing agency |
Sample New Jersey Firearm Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our New Jersey-specific firearm bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by New Jersey and federal law.
STATE OF NEW JERSEY
FIREARM BILL OF SALE
Private Party Firearm Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [New Jersey Address]
DOB: [Date of Birth] ID#: [DL Number]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [New Jersey 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]
New Jersey Firearm Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about New Jersey firearm bills of sale, private transfers, and state requirements.
Official New Jersey Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify New Jersey firearm transfer requirements and access government information.
Other New Jersey Bill of Sale Templates
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