NFA ATF Photo: Requirements & Guidelines [2023]

American citizens have a constitutional right to buy firearms, so it’s a common practice to apply for a firearm registration. Apart from a proper application form, you must also submit a photo that follows the US Department of State’s regulations. Below, you’ll find all the details regarding an NFA AFT photo.

What are the requirements for an NFA ATF photo?

The application forms and their requirements for ATF’s National Firearms Act Division are strictly connected with the one posed by the State Department. Regardless of the firearm application form—whether it’s Form 1, Form 4, or Form 5—the photo regulations are exactly the same.

So, what kind of photo do you need to get your application accepted?

As you can see, the requirements for an NFA ATF photo are very much similar to the US passport photo rules. By following these guidelines, you can be sure that your firearm license picture will get accepted by the authorities.

There are two more things regarding your photos that are crucial to remember while applying for your firearm registration.

1. The back of your photograph must have your full name and the last four digits of your SSN.
2. Attach your photo to an application form by taping. Do not staple it.

The photograph you provide with your AFT application form should be printed on high-quality photo paper without any damage, such as blurs, creases, or smears.

Photo criteria for ATF eForm 1

It’s also possible to apply for your firearm registration online. To do that, you must use an eForm 1 and submit a digital image that follows these requirements:

• File type: JPG or JPEG
• Dimensions: 720x720 px
• Maximum file size: 3MB

Of course, like with printed photos, you must take your digital ATF photo in a well-lit room, against a white background, without any head coverings or glasses.

Can I take my own photo for ATF Form 1?

While you can get your NFA ATF photo taken at a physical location—be it CVS, Walgreens, or any nearby photography studio experienced in biometric photography—it’s easier and more convenient to take the photo at home! All you need is:

• A passport photo app that will help you take a compliant picture. We recommend using our  Passport Photo Booth App for iOS or Passport Photo Maker App for Android for a 100% acceptance guarantee
• Good lighting—natural light works best, so take your photo next to a window during the day
• 3 minutes of your time and a few taps on the screen

Thanks to a professional passport photo tool, you can prepare your digital image in no time! And for high-quality prints, choose a free delivery directly to your door—you’ll receive printed ATF photos within 3 days (anywhere in the US).