Understanding the .EFT Digital Fingerprint and Passport Photo Requirements for NFA Items
If you’re looking to purchase a National Firearms Act (NFA) item—such as a Short-Barreled Rifle (SBR), a suppressor, or a transferable machine gun—you’ve probably heard about the need for fingerprinting and a passport-style photo. These requirements are essential to your application process with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of EFT digital fingerprints, how to obtain them, and why a 2x2 passport-style photo is necessary for your Form 4 submission.
Why Are Fingerprints and a Photo Required?
Just like when applying for a passport, purchasing an NFA item requires identity verification and a federal background check. The ATF mandates that all applicants submit fingerprints and a recent photo to ensure compliance with legal regulations. This process helps verify your eligibility to own and possess an NFA-regulated firearm or suppressor.
For individual applicants filing a Form 4 (the application to transfer an NFA item), this means submitting:
✔ Electronic or Ink Fingerprints
✔ A 2x2 Passport-Style Photo
While the process may seem daunting, obtaining these items has become much more convenient with the introduction of electronic fingerprint submissions.EFT format.
What is a .EFT Digital Fingerprint File?
An .EFT file is a digital version of your fingerprints that the ATF accepts for eForms submissions. This file is crucial if you’re applying for an NFA item through the ATF eForm 4 system. Instead of mailing in paper fingerprint cards, you can submit your fingerprints electronically, streamlining the approval process.
The .EFT file is created using specialized fingerprint scanners at authorized locations. These digital scans meet the ATF’s strict requirements and eliminate the need for physical fingerprint cards, reducing the chance of errors and rejections.
Where Can You Get .EFT Digital Fingerprinting Done?
If you’re in the North Texas area, you can obtain .EFT digital fingerprinting at:
📍 Mission Ridge Range – Plano, TX
📍 Riflegear – The Colony, TX
These locations specialize in fingerprinting for NFA applications and can provide you with an .EFT file that is compatible with the ATF’s eForms system.
Note: Rooftop Shooting Range does not offer .EFT fingerprinting services. However, we provide NFA transfers for our members who already have them.EFT fingerprint file for $100. Additionally, we do not charge an NFA transfer fee for members who purchase their suppressors through us.
The 2x2 Passport Photo Requirement
Like the passport application, your NFA Form 4 submission also requires a 2x2 passport-style photo. This photo serves as an additional identity verification step and must meet the ATF’s requirements.
Passport Photo Guidelines:
✅ Must be 2x2 inches in size
✅ Must be a clear, recent photo (taken within the last 6 months)
✅ White or light-colored background
✅ No headwear (unless for religious reasons)
✅ No glasses
Most local pharmacies (such as CVS and Walgreens) offer passport photo services, or you can visit a professional photo studio to ensure compliance with ATF standards.
Why This Matters for Your NFA Purchase
Think of these requirements as your “passport” for purchasing an NFA item. Without the proper fingerprints and photo, your Form 4 application won’t be processed, causing delays in obtaining your suppressor, SBR, or transferable machine gun.
By using an .EFT file for digital fingerprinting and ensuring you have a valid passport-style photo, you can avoid unnecessary delays and streamline your approval process.
At Rooftop Shooting Range, we’re committed to making the process easier for our members. If you already have your .EFT fingerprint file, we offer NFA transfers for $100, and if you purchase your suppressor through us, we waive the transfer fee.
