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Connecticut Firearm (Gun) Bill of Sale Form

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Updated on January 25th, 2021

The Connecticut firearm (gun) bill of sale form, referred to as the “Sale or Transfer of All Firearms – Form DPS-3-C”, is a contract that is conducted during the process of selling/trading a pistol, shotgun, rifle, or any other handheld firearm that is considered permissible within the state. Participants legitimize the document by noting key facts regarding the transaction and supplying signatures within the designated areas. There are certain legal obligations that must be fulfilled when transferring ownership of a gun in a private sale. The bill of sale must be accompanied by an Application to Purchase a Firearm (Form DPS-67-C) that has been executed by the buyer. Also, the seller is obliged to contact the SLFU (Special Licensing and Firearms Unit) to request an “authorization number” that is specific to the sale taking place and then transcribe it to both forms. Connecticut law states that the seller must preserve an original copy of Form DPS-3-C & DPS-67-C for a minimum of 20 years and additionally supply duplicates of the bill of sale to the buyer, police department located within the town of the buyer’s residence, and Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection. (Reach the SLFU by calling 1-860-685-8400 or 1-888-335-8438.)

How to Register a Gun

Connecticut is among the top 10 states with the strictest gun legislation. Technically speaking, “registration” is only demanded specific assault rifles. That being said, the state does implement certain procedures that essentially register each process of attaining a firearm. People interested in buying a firearm must first acquire a “Certificate of Eligibility” in order to purchase a gun, whether it is a handgun, long gun, or even ammunition.

How to Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility

In order to acquire a Certificate of Eligibility to purchase a firearm, interested parties must be a minimum age of 18 for long guns, 21 for handguns. Provide the necessary items listed below (Certificate of Eligibility does not permit the carrying of firearms):

  • A valid form of positive photo identification.
  • A completed Permit to Purchase Application (signatures must be executed in the presence of an authorized official, a photo of the applicant will be taken upon signing):
    • For Pistols: Pistol Permit/Eligibility Certificate Application – Form DPS-799-C (must check the box requesting an “Eligibility Certificate to Purchase Pistols or Revolvers”)
    • For Long Guns: Individuals looking to purchase long guns must contact the SLFU by telephone at 860-685-8290 and request an application packet containing the form mentioned above as well as Form DPS-164-C (not available online).
  • Results confirming the passing of a criminal background check provided by the DPS (Department of Public Safety).
  • Proof that the applicant completed an approved gun safety/training course (endorsed by a certified firearms instructor).
  • A set of the applicant’s fingerprints pressed onto a state and federal fingerprint card (conducted by an appointed agent).
  • If requested, the applicant must provide all information concerning their criminal and mental health records in accordance with C.G.S § 29-36g.
  • Preparation of funds to appease any charges connected to the application process.

Send the above materials to:
Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection
Special Licensing and Firearms Unit
1111 Country Club Road
Middletown, Connecticut, 06457-2389

(If the applicant questions their qualifications for obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility for a pistol or revolver, read the following Connecticut General Statutes – § 29f-36i.)

How to Obtain a Concealed Carry Permit

Connecticut is labeled a “May-Issue” state, which means it is ultimately up to the governing body’s discretion to approve or deny your application in compliance with the “suitability clause”, although it tends to operate more like a “Shall-Issue” state in the sense that they have limited discretion due to certain court rulings. The person(s) applying must be at least 21 years of age and have lived within the state of Connecticut for a minimum of 90 days. Before applying for a state permit (which is issued by the DESPP), applicants must first obtain a local permit granted by the police chief appointed to their jurisdiction. To acquire a local permit, meet the necessary requirements specified below:

  • Contact your local city/town hall, police department, or first selectman’s office for details on how to receive the paperwork required for the application process.
  • Ensure that you are an acceptable candidate to receive a permit by examining the Firearm Prohibitors put forth by the state.
  • Submit to a criminal background check administered by a qualified individual.
  • Provide a set of fingerprints applied to an official state and federal card (carried out by authorized personnel).
  • Supply photos of the candidate that meet the application’s standards.
  • Furnish proof that you reside within the United States legally e.g. passport, birth certificate, or if you are a legal immigrant, your A-Number (Alien Registration Number) and evidence supporting the claim that you have been a resident of Connecticut for a minimum of 90 days. Naturalized citizens must furnish documentation proving that they legitimately retain citizenship.
  • Have funds readily available to cover any costs attached to the application process.

Contact your local authorities to find out how you can deliver the documentation listed above. Once the above requirements have been delivered to the assigned department, they have 8 weeks to process the application for approval or denial. (If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision.)

How to Write

Step 1 – Download in Adobe PDF.

Step 2 – Sale Information – The agreement requires that the following sale information is noted within the designated areas:

  • Date of Sale (mm/dd/yyyy)
  • Sale Authorization Number (must acquire this number through the SLFU)

Step 3 – Gun Description – Identify the firearm being sold by providing the following requested information:

  • Manufacturer
  • Exact Model
  • Serial Number
  • Caliber/Gauge
  • General Description
  • Barrel Length
  • Type of Firearm (check the box of the type of firearm being sold)
    • Handgun
    • Long Gun
    • Other

Step 4 – Transferee (Buyer) Information – Individual purchasing the firearm must disclose the following personal information:

  • Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
  • Place of Birth
  • Printed Name (First, Middle, Last Name)
  • Pistol Permit, Eligibility Certificate, Police ID, or FFL Number
  • Address (Building/House Number, Street, City/Town, ZIP Code)

Step 5 – Transferor (Seller) Information – Person selling the gun shall provide the following details regarding their identity:

  • Printed Name (First, Middle, Last Name)
  • Pistol Permit, Eligibility Certificate, Police ID, or FFL Number
  • Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
  • Address (Building/House Number, Street, City/Town, ZIP Code)

Step 6 – Concluding the Agreement – Both parties must come together and complete the document by supplying the necessary components listed below:

  • Signature of Seller or Transferor
  • Signature of Purchaser or Transferee