The Department of Justice (DOJ) has just released major proposed rules detailing the long-awaited application process for restoring federal firearm rights under 18 U.S.C. § 925(c).
After more than 30 years of legislative paralysis, this new rulemaking represents the first serious federal action to implement the firearm rights restoration process Congress authorized decades ago. And it’s a game-changer.
National Security Law Firm has closely reviewed the proposed rule, which you can read in full here: https://www.justice.gov/ag/media/1408436/dl?inline. We’ve summarized everything you need to know below.
Key Highlights from the DOJ’s New 2025 Rule
- Relief applications will now be handled directly by DOJ—not ATF
- A new online portal is expected to launch soon
- Applicants must complete multiple state-level background checks
- CLEO notification is mandatory (with a 14-day window for response)
- Three personal reference letters are required with detailed affirmations
- Certain convictions carry mandatory 5- or 10-year waiting periods
- Applicants with violent or sexual convictions must show extraordinary circumstances
- A $20 application fee is required (fee waivers available)
Why This Rule Matters
Since 1992, Congress has blocked ATF from processing 925(c) applications. This new rule reassigns the authority to the Attorney General, creating—for the first time in three decades—a viable path to restoring firearm rights under federal law.
But the process is rigorous, and small mistakes could result in permanent denial.
Timing and Eligibility: Who Can Apply and When
The rule divides applicants into three main categories:
Eligible After 5 Years
- Non-violent felony convictions (not drug- or violence-related)
- Previous application denial (5-year wait to reapply)
Eligible After 10 Years
- Drug trafficking or distribution convictions
- Misdemeanor domestic violence convictions
- Criminal group activity within the last 10 years
Extraordinary Circumstances Required
- Violent felony or sexual offense
- Firearms trafficking or explosives offenses
- Current sex offender registration
Application Requirements (New and Expanded)
Core Requirements:
- Two FBI fingerprint cards
- Certified court records for each conviction
- State and local criminal background checks (all places of residence/arrest since age 18 or 25 years back, whichever is shorter)
- Three DOJ-compliant letters of reference
- Applicant affidavit swearing to no crimes, drug use, alcohol abuse, or violence in past 5 years
- CLEO notification form sent to local law enforcement (with proof)
Additional Documentation:
- Military discharge records (if applicable)
- Mental health documentation and clearances (if applicable)
- Prior expungement/pardon documentation
Holistic Review = More Subjectivity
Even if you meet all requirements, DOJ retains discretion to deny if your:
- Past arrests (even without convictions) raise concern
- Mental health or substance use history poses risk
- CLEO opposes your application
- Letters of reference are weak or incomplete
This means you only get one shot to get this right—and preparation is everything.
What’s Still Missing?
- The official application form has not yet been published.
- DOJ has confirmed it is coming soon, but until then, NSLF is helping clients pre-package documentation so they’re ready to file immediately upon launch.
Why Choose NSLF for Your 925(c) Application?
We’ve been anticipating these changes and preparing for them for months. Our attorneys:
- Work directly with CLEOs to avoid opposition letters
- Pre-screen clients for presumptive disqualifiers and waiting periods
- Craft powerful narrative-based affidavits that win discretionary review
We’re not just submitting paperwork—we’re building the most compelling case possible for why YOU deserve your rights back.
Don’t Wait. File First. File Strong.
The DOJ expects over 1 million applicants in year one. Those who file early will likely benefit from shorter wait times and fewer bureaucratic delays.
If you’re eligible—or think you might be—contact us now to get started.
National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.
