To buy a handgun (or long gun) in Wisconsin you must pass a firearms eligibility background check. The buyer must pass the background check before taking possession of the firearm.
Handgun background checks are conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) Firearms Section. Long gun background checks are conducted by the FBI's National Instant Background Check System.
Background Check Process
Consumer Purchases Handgun
Start Background Check
Registered Wisconsin Firearms Dealers contact the Wisconsin Handgun Hotline. The Firearms Dealer may use the FFL Online background check system if they prefer. This starts the firearms eligibility background check with the DOJ.
Conduct Background Check
The DOJ Firearms team conducts the background check. The team searches twelve state and national criminal justice databases. This determines if the buyer is eligible under state and federal law to own a firearm and buy a handgun.
Background Check Results
The check is to be complete within five business days (not including weekends or holidays). The firearms dealer will receive the results during this time. They may not transfer the firearm until they have received approval of the sale by the DOJ firearms team.
The Handgun Hotline is open seven days a week.
Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For questions about the background check process, call (608) 261-7998.