Selling your firearm checklist
This is a practical checklist for a compliant transfer. If anything feels unclear or high-risk, using a licensed dealer is the simplest way to ensure the transfer is correctly documented and legally compliant.
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1
Confirm the buyer is a Massachusetts resident with the correct MA firearms license.
Massachusetts private transfers are not casual transactions. Do not proceed unless the buyer is a Massachusetts resident and holds the appropriate Massachusetts license for the firearm type. If the license status is unclear, do not transfer the firearm.
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2
Confirm the firearm can be legally transferred under Massachusetts rules.
Massachusetts has restrictions that can affect transferability (especially for certain rifles, features, and magazines). If you are not 100% confident the firearm and magazines are compliant, route the transfer through an FFL or sell to a licensed buyer who can confirm compliance before finalizing.
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3
Complete the transfer documentation and record the key details for your files.
Record the date, the price, and the firearm details (Make, Model, Serial Number). Keep buyer and seller identification details that support residency and licensing. A clear paper trail matters more in restrictive states like Massachusetts.
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4
Report the transaction using the Massachusetts Firearms Transaction Record system.
Massachusetts requires firearm transactions to be reported through the state’s transaction reporting system (often referred to as the FA-10 / eFA10 process). Submit the report promptly and keep confirmation for your records.
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5
Avoid interstate transfers unless they go through an FFL.
Do not transfer a firearm privately across state lines. If the buyer is not a Massachusetts resident, the transaction must go through an FFL. When selling to WeBuyGuns, we handle compliance and provide a documented, legally supported process.
Updated: February 14, 2026
State laws for selling a gun in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has some of the most restrictive firearm transfer rules in the country. Private sales are allowed, but they are tightly regulated and require proper licensing, reporting, and compliance with state-specific restrictions.
If any part of your situation is unclear — buyer eligibility, firearm compliance, or reporting requirements — the safest option is to route the transfer through a licensed dealer or sell directly to a federally licensed buyer.
| Topic | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Private sales allowed | YES, heavily regulated | Private transfers are allowed but require proper Massachusetts licensing and mandatory transaction reporting. |
| Background check for private transfers | Indirect (licensing-based) | Massachusetts relies on licensing and eligibility controls rather than a dealer-run NICS check for private transfers. |
| Transaction reporting required | YES | All firearm transfers must be reported through the Massachusetts Firearms Transaction Record system (FA-10 / eFA10). |
| Can I sell to an out-of-state buyer | NO, unless through an FFL | Do not complete a private interstate transfer. Out-of-state sales must go through a licensed dealer. |
| Minimum age: Dealer | YES | FFL transfers follow federal rules: typically 18+ for long guns and 21+ for handguns. |
| Minimum age: Private transfer | License-dependent | Private transfers are limited by the buyer’s Massachusetts license class and eligibility for the firearm type. |
| Prohibited persons | Do not sell | Never transfer a firearm to someone you know or reasonably suspect is prohibited under state or federal law. |
| Bill of sale | Recommended | Massachusetts emphasizes electronic transaction reporting, but keeping a written record is still smart protection. |
State law details
Understanding Massachusetts firearm sale rules
A detailed breakdown of common requirements.
Understanding Massachusetts firearm sale rules
Identification & documentation
Massachusetts firearm transactions require more than a casual exchange. Both buyer and seller must hold valid Massachusetts firearms licenses appropriate for the firearm being transferred. Documentation and reporting are mandatory.
- Confirm the buyer holds the correct Massachusetts firearms license for the firearm type
- Verify Massachusetts residency for private transfers
- Maintain records supporting the transfer details and license verification
- M.G.L. c. 140, § 128A - Application of Sec. 128
Background checks & licensing
Massachusetts does not treat private transfers like dealer sales with an on-the-spot NICS check. Instead, eligibility is enforced through the state’s firearms licensing system and mandatory transaction reporting.
- Private transfers rely on valid Massachusetts firearms licenses
- Dealer transfers require full federal background check procedures
- If license validity is unclear, stop the transaction or involve an FFL
- M.G.L. c. 140, §§ 121–131P - Licenses
Age & eligibility
Age requirements in Massachusetts depend on the license class and firearm type. Dealers enforce federal minimums, while private transfers must align with Massachusetts licensing rules.
- Dealer transfers: federal age rules apply
- Private transfers: buyer must hold a valid Massachusetts license covering the firearm
- Never transfer a firearm if eligibility is uncertain
- M.G.L. c. 140, § 131 - Licenses to carry firearms; conditions and restrictions
- M.G.L. c. 140, § 129B - Firearm identification cards; conditions and restrictions
Waiting periods
Massachusetts does not impose a traditional waiting period for private transfers. However, administrative and compliance steps can slow the process.
- No statutory waiting period for private transfers
- Delays often result from licensing or reporting issues
- Dealer transfers may involve additional processing time
Prohibited persons
Massachusetts applies both federal prohibited-person rules and additional state-level eligibility requirements. Private sellers carry significant risk if they ignore red flags.
- Do not sell if you know or reasonably suspect the buyer is prohibited
- Red flags include license issues, pressure to bypass reporting, or evasive behavior
- When in doubt, route the transaction through a licensed dealer
- M.G.L. c. 140, § 121F - Firearms sales; definitions; antique firearms; application of law; exceptions
Avoid licensing and reporting mistakes
Massachusetts private firearm transfers carry strict licensing and reporting requirements. A single mismatch between license class, firearm type, or transaction reporting can invalidate the transfer and create legal exposure for the seller.
We’ve purchased dozens of firearms from Massachusetts sellers through a fully licensed process that navigates licensing requirements and mandatory state reporting.
Massachusetts residents must follow federal laws for private transactions
ATF guidance and prohibited person requirements
Federal law requires that the buyer of a firearm must be legally eligible to own a gun.
Local ordinances, city rules and municipal policies
Massachusetts does not grant unlimited firearm preemption to the state. While core licensing and transfer rules are set at the state level, cities and towns may enforce certain local regulations related to storage, discharge, and use of firearms on municipal property.
- Discharge ordinances: Cities and towns may regulate or prohibit the discharge of firearms within municipal boundaries. These rules commonly affect where private transfers or test firing may occur.
- Safe storage enforcement: Massachusetts has strict safe-storage laws that are enforced locally. Municipal police departments are typically responsible for enforcement and investigation.
- Public buildings and facilities: Municipal buildings, schools, and government facilities may have posted restrictions or controlled-access rules that apply regardless of state licensing.
- Local licensing authorities: Firearms licenses are issued and managed by local police departments. Processing times, renewal practices, and administrative requirements can vary by city or town.
Even when a firearm transfer is legal under Massachusetts state law, local enforcement and administrative practices can add complexity. Using a licensed dealer or selling to a federally licensed buyer helps avoid local compliance issues.