| Aspect | Federal Firearms Licensing | Federal Firearms Dealer |
|---|
| Required credentials | FFL license, background check | FFL license, business registration |
| Work environment | Regulated firearms industry, licensing offices | Gun stores, firearms auctions, online sales |
| Employer and industry usage | Regulatory authority, licensing agency | Retail or wholesale firearms sales |
Federal Firearms Licensing involves obtaining an FFL to legally engage in firearms-related activities, while Federal Firearms Dealer refers to a licensed individual or business authorized to sell firearms. The main difference is that licensing is the process, and being a dealer is the role that results from holding an FFL. Both require similar credentials and are integral to the firearms industry, but the licensing process is the first step toward becoming a dealer.