'MURICA — How do federal gun background checks work? <br /><br />When a person wants to buy a gun from a federal firearms licensed dealer (FFL), he or she must provide identification and pass a federal background check, according to Fox News. <br /><br />Buyers must fill out the Bureau of Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives' 4473 form. The form asks basic information with a Social Security Number suggested, but not required. <br />The form also asks questions about criminal background, mental health and immigration status. <br /><br />After form 4473 is filled out, the dealer submits it to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) online or over the phone. <br />If the NICS indicates the purchase can proceed, the gun sale can continue. <br />If the NICS cancels or denies the form, the seller cannot legally sell the gun to the buyer. <br /><br />If the NICS marks the form as delayed, the sale cannot be completed for three business days. Unless a denied designation is issued, the firearms purchase can proceed after the three days.
