If you’ve been denied a firearm purchase by the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), your first question is probably: How long is this going to take to fix?

The answer depends on why you were denied, what documentation you have, and how you approach the appeal. At National Security Law Firm (NSLF), we help clients across the country challenge wrongful denials and navigate the appeal process from start to finish—as efficiently as possible.

Here’s a clear breakdown of how the process works, how long it takes, and what you can do to avoid unnecessary delays.

Step 1: Submit a NICS Firearm-Related Challenge

To start, you need to submit a Firearm-Related Challenge to the FBI:

Once the FBI receives your challenge, they begin reviewing the reason for your denial.

📌 Timeline: 1–3 weeks to acknowledge your submission (longer if mailed)

Step 2: Wait for the FBI to Research the Record

The FBI will review your NICS denial and attempt to verify the accuracy of the record that caused it. This might involve:

  • Contacting state courts, local agencies, or law enforcement

  • Reviewing criminal or mental health records

  • Matching fingerprints to confirm identity

If they believe the denial was accurate, they will notify you and explain why. If you provide documentation, they may clear the record and reverse the denial.

📌 Timeline: Most denials take 1–3 months to resolve. Complex cases can take 6+ months.

Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents (If Needed)

If the FBI notifies you that the denial was based on an outdated or incomplete record, you may be asked to:

  • Submit certified court records

  • Provide expungement orders, pardon documents, or mental health relief orders

  • Send in a fingerprint card to prove identity

If you delay providing documents, the entire process pauses.

⚠️ The faster you provide complete, organized documentation, the sooner your case moves forward.

Step 4: Get a Final Determination

Once the FBI finishes reviewing your case and documents, they will issue a final decision:

  • Denial Reversed: You are cleared to purchase firearms

  • Denial Upheld: You remain prohibited under federal law

If your denial is reversed, we may recommend you apply for a Voluntary Appeal File (VAF) and UPIN to prevent future delays.

📌 Timeline: Once documents are submitted, it can take 2–8 weeks for a final determination

Total Timeline Summary

Phase Estimated Duration
Submit NICS Challenge 1–3 weeks (acknowledgment)
FBI Review of Record 4–12+ weeks
Document Submission/Review 2–8 weeks after submission
Total Time (Typical) 2–3 months
Complex Cases 6+ months

✅ Working with NSLF can significantly reduce delays by ensuring a complete, well-organized case file from the start.

What Slows the Process Down?

  • Missing or incorrect documents

  • Delays in obtaining certified records from courts

  • Record disputes involving multiple states or federal databases

  • Submitting your challenge by mail instead of online

How NSLF Helps You Get Results Faster

  • We identify the real reason behind your denial

  • We gather the necessary documents quickly and completely

  • We craft a compelling legal narrative and communicate with the FBI directly

  • We assist with VAF/UPIN applications after reversal

  • We escalate long-delayed challenges when necessary

Learn More: Resource Hub

To explore other options, visit our main page on NICS denials, appeals, and restoration: 👉 Denied by NICS? Here’s How NSLF Can Help You Challenge Federal Firearm Prohibitions

Ready to Start the Clock on Fixing Your Denial?

The sooner you act, the sooner you can fix the problem—and we’re here to help.

📅 Book your free consultation today: https://www.nationalsecuritylawfirm.com/book-consult-now/

The National Security Law Firm: It’s Our Turn to Fight for You.