Federal firearm rights restoration is a Department of Justice process under 18 U.S.C. § 925(c). It allows people subject to certain federal firearm prohibitions to request relief. An application is a request for a government decision, not permission to possess a firearm while you wait.
Published by GovFilingDirect. Official sources checked September 29, 2026. This is general preparation information, not individualized legal advice. GovFilingDirect is an independent preparation service.
What is the current federal firearm process?
Start with the DOJ Federal Firearm Rights Restoration hub. DOJ announced its final rule on August 17, 2026. Its published rollout has three stages:
- September 25, 2026: applications open to invited candidates.
- November 4, 2026: applications open to the public for the first 5,000 candidates.
- January 4, 2027: another 500 candidates can apply, and the application fee begins.
These are DOJ’s published stages, not places sold or reserved by GovFilingDirect. At the time of this review, DOJ’s hub still labels the online application, OMB Form #1123-0017, as coming soon. Check that official page for the current application link and instructions; an invitation-only stage is not an unrestricted public opening.
Can someone with a felony conviction apply?
DOJ’s who-can-apply guidance includes people with certain federal prohibitions, including felony-related restrictions. That is only the starting point. Separately review DOJ’s presumptive disqualifiers, which describe circumstances that generally lead to denial absent extraordinary circumstances.
The rules include current-status restrictions, permanent presumptive disqualifiers, five- and ten-year categories, and reapplication rules. Do not assume an old conviction automatically qualifies or that completing a sentence immediately restores rights. If your offense classification, sentence history or state restrictions are unclear, seek qualified legal advice.
From preparation to a decision
- Read the official requirements. Identify the categories that apply to your circumstances.
- Gather your records. Use our application preparation checklist to organize requests and missing documents.
- Prepare character references. Read DOJ’s criteria before selecting people.
- Use the official application process. Follow government instructions for your application stage, fingerprints and any applicable fee.
- Keep the official confirmation. Monitor government correspondence and respond to requests through the instructed channel.
Where can I watch the Ed Martin overview?
DOJ published “US Pardon Attorney, Ed Martin Federal Firearms Rights Restoration Overview” on August 14, 2026. Watch the official video for context, then use the written FFRR requirements for preparation. A video or social-media summary does not replace current application instructions.
Does restoration cover state or Tribal restrictions?
No automatic state or Tribal restoration follows from the federal application process. DOJ expressly distinguishes these systems. Read our explanation of gun pardons versus firearm rights restoration, and verify which restrictions apply before handling a firearm.
How GovFilingDirect helps you prepare
Our private Briefcase brings your preparation records, checklists and saved progress together. The optional Avery AI-assisted plan helps explain preparation steps. Neither plan is the government application or a promise of approval. You can also use DOJ’s resources directly.