Gun Dealers Will Soon Be Able to Run Their Own Employees Through NICS Under New Firearm Handler Check Rule

Firearm Laws & Litigation Articles - USA Carry · Oct 28, 2026

Key Takeaways

Federal firearms licensees will soon be able to run background checks on their current and prospective employees through the FBI's NICS system.

The Firearm Handler Check Final Rule will take effect 30 days after its publication in the Federal Register.

Previously, NICS was used only to run background checks on prospective firearm purchasers, not on gun dealer employees.

NSSF describes the rule as the result of a long-sought, NSSF-led effort to improve firearm industry and community safety.

The rule's goal is to ensure no prohibited individuals have access to firearm…