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Understanding the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

Apr 30, 2025

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

Overview

  • The ATF is a law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Justice.
  • It aims to protect communities from violent criminals, criminal organizations, illegal firearms and explosives, arson, terrorism, and illegal diversion of alcohol and tobacco.
  • Collaborates with communities, industries, law enforcement, and public safety agencies.
  • Utilizes information sharing, training, research, and technology.

Key Sections and Services

Who We Are

  • About: Information on leadership, organizational structure, and history.
  • Contact: Hotlines, licensing services, and media/congressional contacts.
  • Careers: Opportunities for special agents, IO investigators, attorneys, and professionals.
  • Locations: Information about HQ, field divisions, local and international offices.

What We Do

  • Mission Areas:
    • Firearms: Regulation and enforcement of firearms-related activities.
    • Explosives: Regulation of explosives use in various industries.
    • Arson: Addressing arson-related crimes.
    • Alcohol & Tobacco: Regulation of alcohol and tobacco products.
  • Regulations: Laws and regulations related to ATF's areas of focus.
  • News: Latest advisories, press releases, and media contacts.
  • Laboratories: Fire research, forensics, and the Firearms Examiner Academy.
  • Most Wanted: Information on reward notices for wanted criminals.

Resources

  • Download Forms: Access to various ATF forms and order paper forms.
  • Photo Galleries: Visual resources on firearms and K-9 units.
  • Publications: Fact sheets, regulations library, and FOIA information.
  • Q&A: Answers to frequently asked questions about firearms, explosives, and careers.
  • Data & Statistics: Access to firearms trace data and the U.S. firearms commerce report.

Featured Content

  • National Firearms Commerce and Trafficking Assessment: Volume Four released.
  • New Vermont Open Letter: Enactment of Vermont Statute 13 V.S.A. § 4019a.
  • What’s New on ATF.gov: Latest updates and news.
  • Facts and Figures for FY24: Available on the resource center.

Regulations

  • Rulings, rulemakings, general notices, and specific regulations like 41F which includes background checks for responsible persons.

Tips and Careers

  • Submit a Tip: Anonymously report illegal activities or acts of violence.
  • Careers: Information on joining the ATF workforce, career opportunities, and diversity.

Social Media and Updates

  • Stay updated via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and email.

Additional Information

  • Open Government: Privacy and legal policies, USA.gov.
  • Site Accessibility: Details on site map and accessibility policies.

Note:

  • The ATF website contains numerous images depicting ATF activities and areas of focus.