On August 17, 2026, the Department of Justice announced a final rule establishing a functioning federal firearm-rights restoration program under 18 U.S.C. § 925(c).
DOJ rollout schedule announced August 17, 2026
- September 25, 2026: DOJ says applications open to invited candidates.
- November 4, 2026: DOJ says the public application window opens for the first 5,000 candidates.
- January 4, 2027: DOJ says another public tranche opens and the $30 application fee begins.
What § 925(c) authorizes
The statute allows a person prohibited from possessing, shipping, transporting or receiving firearms or ammunition to apply to the Attorney General for relief from federal firearm disabilities. The statutory standard focuses on the circumstances of the disability, the applicant’s record and reputation, danger to public safety, and the public interest.
Who can apply?
DOJ’s plain-language final-rule materials state that anyone currently prohibited under the Gun Control Act can apply, but the rule also contains presumptive disqualifiers and heightened standards for specified crimes, conduct and statuses. Eligibility to submit an application is not the same as entitlement to relief.
What the application is expected to require
DOJ says the process includes an application form, electronic fingerprints, character references, and—once the fee applies—a $30 processing fee, with information on waiver or reduction requests. Applicants may also be asked for additional records.
State law still matters
A federal restoration grant removes applicable federal firearm disabilities covered by the relief. DOJ expressly warns that it does not override an independent state-law restriction. A person therefore needs a two-system analysis: federal eligibility and state eligibility.
Judicial review
Section 925(c) includes a mechanism for judicial review in federal district court after denial by the Attorney General. The procedural requirements should be checked against the final rule and current DOJ instructions before filing.