What does a 'class III' gun license allow for?

A 'class III' gun license, which is also known as a Federal Firearms License (FFL) Type 3, specifically pertains to the ownership and regulation of certain restricted firearms. This includes short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and fully automatic weapons, among other items that are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA). The licensing process for class III firearms typically involves extensive background checks, fingerprinting, and the payment of a tax.

This licensing category was established to control access to more dangerous firearms that can pose greater risks to public safety. Those seeking to own class III firearms must adhere to strict regulatory standards, including registration of the firearm and the need to notify the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) when transferring ownership.

While other options discuss aspects of gun ownership, they do not accurately encompass the unique licensing requirements and restrictions linked to class III firearms, which specifically address ownership of specific restricted items rather than general categories like handguns or export conditions.