Preparing for Your First Dealer Appointment
If you have never visited a licensed firearm dealer before, it is completely normal to feel uncertain about what the experience will be like. Many first-time buyers tell us they were nervous before their first appointment but felt completely at ease once the process started. At Ernie's Arms Accessories, we specialize in making first-time buyers feel welcome and informed. This guide walks you through exactly what to expect so you can arrive prepared and confident.
- Valid Illinois FOID card (not expired)
- Valid Illinois driver's license or state ID
- Both documents must have matching name and address
- Payment method (cash, credit, or debit depending on dealer)
- Any questions you have written down
Before You Arrive
Make sure your FOID card is valid and not expired. Check that the name and address on your FOID matches your driver's license exactly. If there is a mismatch (due to a recent move, name change, etc.), the dealer cannot proceed with the transaction. Update your information through the ISP portal before your appointment. If you are purchasing a specific firearm that the dealer needs to order, confirm that it has arrived and is ready for you. At Ernie's, we will call or email you when your special order or FFL transfer arrives.
What Happens During the Appointment
1. Greeting and Discussion: Your dealer will welcome you and discuss what you are looking for. If you are purchasing a specific firearm, they will retrieve it and go over its features and operation with you. If you are still deciding, this is where a consultation is invaluable. Ernie will walk you through your options based on your needs, whether that is home defense, concealed carry, sport shooting, or hunting.
2. Handling the Firearm: You will have the opportunity to handle the firearm (unloaded, of course) to check the fit, weight, and ergonomics. This is your chance to ask questions about operation, safety features, and anything else you want to know.
3. ATF Form 4473: If you decide to purchase, you will complete the ATF Form 4473, the federal Firearms Transaction Record. This is a multi-page form that collects your personal information and asks a series of eligibility questions. Answer every question honestly. Your dealer will walk you through any questions you have about the form.
4. Background Check: Your dealer will submit your information through the NICS background check system. Results typically come back within minutes. Possible outcomes are Proceed (approved), Delayed (requires additional review, up to 3 business days), or Denied.
5. Waiting Period: Even if your background check returns immediately as Proceed, Illinois waiting periods apply. You will need to return after 72 hours (handgun) or 24 hours (long gun) to pick up your firearm. Read the full breakdown in our first-time buyer guide.
6. Payment: Payment is typically collected at the time of paperwork, not at pickup. Confirm with your dealer what payment methods they accept.
There is no pressure to buy at your first appointment. If you want to handle a few options, ask questions, and go home to think about it, that is completely fine. A good dealer will never pressure you into a purchase. At Ernie's Arms Accessories, the consultation is the service. Schedule an appointment with no obligation to buy.
After Your Appointment
Once the waiting period has elapsed and your background check has cleared, you will return to pick up your firearm. This second visit is typically quick. The dealer will complete the transfer, and you will sign the final section of the Form 4473. Before leaving, make sure you understand how to safely transport your new firearm home (see our Illinois gun laws guide for transport rules).
After your purchase, invest in proper cleaning supplies and maintenance tools and consider professional training. Browse our full list of services or check out our accessories selection for everything you need to get started as a responsible firearm owner.