How to Complete ATF Fingerprint Cards

ATF fingerprint cards, also known as FD-258 fingerprint cards, capture your fingerprints as part of your NFA application. For your next suppressor, SBR, or other NFA items, your fingerprints are required when submitting your ATF Form 4 application, and these cards can be used for that purpose.

You can order FD-258 fingerprint cards online at Silencer Shop. When you receive them, you will fingerprint yourself and send that completed card to the ATF via USPS. 

However, the Silencer Shop kiosk is a faster and more effective way to process your ATF fingerprints for eForm 4. Your physical FD-258 fingerprint card could get lost in the mail, and when it’s received, the ATF will scan it, which takes additional time.

The Silencer Shop kiosk is a resource that is a better way for you to do your fingerprint processing for the ATF. The kiosk has simple, on-screen instructions and a digital touchpad: you’ll be able to see the scan of your prints instantly and save them in your Silencer Shop profile. This will avoid the confusion of attempting to capture your fingerprints at home by yourself and then mailing them to the ATF.

With the Silencer Shop kiosk, the digital file can be transmitted to the ATF instantly, which saves time and avoids the possibility of damage that is inherent to the US mail.

Table of Contents

• How to do ATF Form Fingerprint Cards?
• Can You Do Your Own Fingerprints for ATF?
• Methods for ATF Fingerprinting
• How to Fill Out FD-258 Fingerprint Cards
• FD-258 Fingerprint Card Codes
• Conclusion

To submit an ATF eForm 4 fingerprint card, the Silencer Shop Kiosk quickly and easily scans captures your fingerprints.

This allows you to bypass traditional FD-258 fingerprinting with a simple visit to the kiosk and easily transmit that file as part of your ATF eForm 4 application. This saves the time and hassle of mailing a paper FD 258 fingerprint card to the ATF and could facilitate a shorter wait time while you’re waiting for your ATF tax stamp. eForm 4s Powered By Silencer Shop are processing faster than ever for suppressors, SBR (short barrel rifle) -- any NFA item.

The best way to create your digital fingerprint file is to locate a Silencer Shop kiosk. These devices have a fingerprint scanner integrated into the touchpad, and with only one visit, the scan will be integrated into your Silencer Shop account, so you can use this file the next time you purchase a suppressor or any NFA item.

Yes, you can absolutely do your own fingerprints as required by the ATF and include it with your NFA application. Applicants, not law enforcement agencies, complete most ATF fingerprint cards for NFA purchases. The ATF encourages this DIY approach. You can choose traditional FD-258 fingerprint cards or faster digital methods like our Silencer Shop Kiosk. We'll guide you through either process to ensure your fingerprints are captured correctly, potentially saving you weeks of waiting time.

• Digital Fingerprinting (Recommended)

  • Use the Silencer Shop kiosk for quick, accurate digital fingerprints.
  • Takes less than 5 minutes and integrates with your Silencer Shop account.
  • Instantly submitted to the ATF, potentially reducing wait times.

• Traditional FD-258 Cards:

  • You can order FD-258 fingerprint cards online or get them from law enforcement agencies.
  • Follow precise instructions to capture your fingerprints at home.

Instructions for filling out an FD-258 card:

1. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
2. Use a proper fingerprinting ink pad (available in fingerprinting kits).
3. Practice on a blank sheet before using the actual FD-258 card.
4. Follow the card's layout for individual finger placement.
5. Roll each finger from nail to nail, ensuring even ink distribution -- ensure you're using the box designated for that finger.
6. Capture slap prints for your thumbs.
7. In black ink, fill out all required information using the correct codes (see our code tables below).
8. Using the included return envelope, mail your completed card.

Submitting your fingerprints for your ATF application is easy with the Silencer Shop kiosk. The benefits of digital fingerprinting are great:

1. Accuracy: Our kiosks ensure proper finger placement and pressure.
2. Speed: You can complete the process in 5 minutes.
3. Convenience: No need to mail physical cards.
4. Reusability: Your digital prints are stored on your profile for future NFA applications.

We can even print your fingerprints on FD-258 cards if needed.

The fastest and most effective way to send your prints to the ATF is with the electronic transfer process powered by the Silencer Shop Kiosk.

Silencer Shop is the largest NFA distributor in the United States and with over 25,000 reviews on Trust Pilot and an average ranking of 4.9 out of 5 stars, the easiest way to get your suppressor.