TexasCHLforum.com

Abraham wrote:
Rarely, after I turn in the paper work, someone will inform me that I HAVE to provide my SS#.

It says "Optional" right on the form. If they object, tell them to call the ATF and have them explain what "optional" means

knotquiteawake wrote:I thought it mostly just allowed you to skip putting down the SS# on the forms.

You can _always_ skip putting tour SS# on the forms. CHL or not.

Putting your SS# on the forum when you have a CHL just means you've put your SS# on yet another document that you didn't need to.

The CHL replaces the background check.

Yes, if you commit a felony while in possession of a CHL, you could technically buy a gun, but that applies if you don't have CHL too. Remember, an offense that would result in you being blocked on a background check will also result in your CHL being confiscated.

jmra wrote:

Abraham wrote:So, the upshot of this is: Having one's DL & CHL photocopied (for this purchase) is nothing to be upset about?

So, why are some proclaiming it is?

Thanks!

The problem I have with it is they don't need it. If they don't need it they shouldn't get it.

It's an interesting scenario, because ALL the information that's in your DL (minus the photo) is recorded on the 4473, so it's not like you're protecting much when it comes to data. I used to scan DLs and CHLs and store them on a local encrypted drive, and once it let me help a customer with a previous purchase they had made. However, I don't do it anymore. Some places still do it for internal auditing reasons.

Here's the easy thing to remember: There is no _federal_ law that states your ID must be photocopied. It is not a requirement for the 4473. Some businesses might do it for specific auditing reasons. If you don't like it, refuse. Conversely, they can refuse to sell you a firearm. This complicates matters if you're doing a transfer, because they now hold your gun. At that point, your only recourse is to tell the FFL to return your firearm to the original seller, but be ready to pay their cost to return it to the seller. Obviously, the best way to prevent this mess is to call the receiving FFL _before_ you purchase a firearm and ask them if they photocopy your identification.