How long does the background check process typically take?

How long does the background check process typically take?

  1. In many states, the background check happens while you wait in the store and only takes a few minutes. 
  2. If, like California, your state is a point-of-contact (POC) for NICS–meaning the state performs its own background check on you in addition to the FBI’s–it will take longer. 
  3. Your state may also have a waiting period before you may take possession of the firearm. While this isn’t part of the background check itself, it’s part of the overall process. You may have to wait anywhere from three days (on the low end) to two weeks (Hawaii) before you can return to the FFL to complete the transfer.