Registration & Records

Do I need to register my guns?

Registration Laws

The State of Texas does not maintain a registry of firearms. The federal government also does not maintain a general registry of handgun or rifle ownership. However, the National Firearms Act does require that certain types of firearms or other weapons be registered (such as short barreled shot guns, machine guns, silencers, etc.).

Do I need to transfer the registration of a firearm?
This FAQ describes how firearms in Texas generally do not need to be registered with the exception of certain specific types of firearms covered by the National Firearms Act.

Certain Firearms Covered by the National Firearms Act (NFA)

How Does a Person Register a Firearm or Remove a Name from a Firearms Registration?
This FAQ from the ATF states that federal law only requires registration of: machineguns, short–barreled rifles and shotguns, silencers, destructive devices, and firearms designated as “any other weapons” under the National Firearms Act (NFA).

What records are kept of firearm transfers in Texas?

Record-Keeping by Federal Firearms Licensed (FFL) Dealers

Code of Federal Regulations, Title 27, Chapter II, Subchapter B, Part 478, Subpart H
These federal rules set out the record-keeping requirements for federally licensed dealers. See §478.124 for rules related to the record-keeping of sales or transfers of firearms to individual purchasers. See §478.129 for record retention requirements.
Record Required - Licensees
This FAQ page from the ATF describes the record retention rules that all dealers with a Federal Firearms License (FFL) must adhere to.

Record-Keeping in Private Transfers

What Recordkeeping Procedures Should be Followed When Two Unlicensed Individuals Want to Engage in a Firearms Transaction?
This FAQ from the ATF states that "the Gun Control Act (GCA) does not require any record keeping" for private sales.
Personal Firearms Record (ATF P 3312.8)
The ATF recommends (but does not require) the use of this handy chart when transferring or acquiring a firearm. This form is intended for your personal records and will not be collected or maintained by the ATF or any other government agency.

Stolen Firearms

Do I need to report if my gun was lost or stolen? How can I make a report?
This FAQ explains that making a report after your gun is lost or stolen is not required by law in Texas. It also discusses how to locate the serial number for a missing gun.

Texas State
Law Library

Gun Laws