Federal application facts from DOJ
The U.S. Department of Justice runs the federal firearm rights restoration process. These facts summarize its published guidance. They do not determine whether a person qualifies or will be granted relief.
Sources checked October 15, 2026. Federal procedures and rollout dates can change. Always confirm the latest information on the linked DOJ pages.
Before starting the DOJ application
DOJ says that after starting its online application, you have 30 days to complete and submit it. If you do not finish in that period, you must start again. DOJ recommends gathering required records before starting.
Documents depend on the case. DOJ lists records of where you have lived and of arrests. It may also ask for court, sentence, mental health or military records. Its documents page explains which apply.
DOJ lists five types of presumptive disqualifiers: current status, permanent, ten-year, five-year, and reapplication. A presumptive disqualifier is not the same as a final DOJ decision.
During and after the application
DOJ lists a $30 federal application fee and describes a process to request a fee waiver or reduction. Other costs, such as obtaining records and fingerprints, may apply. Software charges, if offered later, are separate from DOJ fees.
DOJ requires three character references. They must not be related to you by blood or marriage. They must have known you at least three years. They must not be barred from having firearms under federal law. DOJ sends each reference its own form after you submit. A letter prepared ahead of time does not replace that form.
DOJ requires electronic fingerprints at participating USPS locations. Fingerprints from other providers are not accepted. After you submit, DOJ says you get an email with a case number and a QR code for this step.
DOJ describes four decision types: grant, denial, indeterminate, and no action. Federal relief does not automatically remove state or tribal restrictions.
Application availability
DOJ has described a phased rollout. Opening dates and application limits may change. Check the official DOJ FAQ for the current status before making plans.
Official sources
Each link below opens an official justice.gov page. These links are provided for independent verification.
My Gun Rights Back is independent of DOJ. It is not a law firm, does not provide legal advice, does not submit applications to DOJ, and cannot promise restoration.