If you’ve lost your federal firearm rights due to a felony or other disqualifying conviction, a little-known federal law may finally offer a path forward. 18 U.S.C. § 925(c) allows individuals to apply to have their gun rights restored. For over 30 years, that law existed only on paper because Congress defunded the process. But now, in a dramatic policy shift, that may be changing.

To understand the full history and legal background of this change, see our in-depth guide: Federal Firearm Restoration Lawyers: Restoring Federal Firearm Rights – A New Life for 18 U.S.C. § 925(c)

Here’s what you need to know:

What Is 18 U.S.C. § 925(c)?

It’s a federal law that lets people who are banned from owning guns apply for relief. If granted, your rights are restored under federal law. Until recently, the ATF was responsible for reviewing these petitions—but since 1992, Congress blocked them from spending any money to do so.

In 2025, the Department of Justice (DOJ) changed course. DOJ pulled the authority away from ATF and is now preparing to reopen this process under the Attorney General’s supervision. That means for the first time in decades, restoring your rights may be possible.

Can You Apply Right Now?

Not quite yet. As of mid-2025, DOJ is still setting up the new process. There is no official application yet, and the rules for how petitions will be reviewed are still being written. DOJ has stated that additional guidance will follow, and public comments are being reviewed to help shape the program’s structure.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t start preparing. Now is the time to gather:

  • Certified copies of your conviction

  • Records showing completion of your sentence

  • Letters of recommendation from employers or community members

  • Evidence of rehabilitation and community involvement (volunteer work, counseling, employment history)

Doing this prep work now will put you in a strong position to file once the application process opens.

Who Might Qualify?

You’re most likely to be considered if:

  • Your conviction is old (10+ years)

  • It was non-violent

  • You have no recent arrests or charges

  • You’ve maintained a clean record and demonstrated good conduct since your conviction

If you have a more serious or recent offense, your application may still be reviewed but could face closer scrutiny. The DOJ is expected to issue clear criteria, but early candidates for relief are likely to be those who have shown substantial rehabilitation and community stability.

Why Work With a Federal Firearm Restoration Lawyer?

Because the rules are evolving, working with a knowledgeable federal firearm restoration lawyer gives you the best shot at success. We can help you:

  • Evaluate if you’re likely to qualify

  • Prepare your petition and supporting materials

  • Monitor DOJ’s announcements so you can file as soon as the process opens

  • Avoid mistakes that could lead to delay or denial

  • Respond to DOJ inquiries if additional evidence or clarification is needed

The right legal team can help make sure your application is thorough, persuasive, and strategically timed.

Next Steps

Although petitions can’t yet be submitted, things are moving fast. If you want to be among the first in line when the process goes live, start working with a federal firearm restoration lawyer now to build your case.

We’ll help you make sure your record, narrative, and evidence are in order. Then, once DOJ opens the door, you’ll be ready to walk through it.

To dive deeper into the full legal background and history of § 925(c), visit our comprehensive article: Federal Firearm Restoration Lawyers – Restoring Federal Firearm Rights

Contact Us

At National Security Law Firm, we’re closely tracking every update. If you’re ready to restore your federal gun rights, we’re ready to help.

📅 Schedule a free consultation: Book Online Now

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