(a) After the applicant pays for and submits an online application to request a unique serial number on CFARS, the Department will conduct a firearms eligibility check to determine that the applicant is not prohibited from possessing, receiving, owning, or purchasing a firearm under either state or federal law. The Department will examine both state and federal records to ensure that neither state nor federal law prohibits the applicant from possessing a firearm.

(b) Upon completion of the firearms eligibility check, the Department will determine if the applicant is:

(c) If the applicant is eligible, the Department will assign a unique serial number for that specific firearm or firearm precursor part. If the applicant is ineligible or if the Department is unable to conclusively determine that the applicant is eligible, the Department will not issue a unique serial number.

(d) The Department will notify the applicant of its determination electronically by email. The applicant's CFARS account will generate a generic email notification that will be sent to the applicant's personal email address when the Department makes its determination so that the applicant can log onto the applicant's CFARS account online to view the decision.

(e) If an applicant is ineligible to possess, receive, own, or purchase a firearm or if the Department is unable to conclusively determine that the applicant is eligible, a follow-up denial notification will be sent through U.S. mail, which will address the denial reason. The notification will include instructions on how to receive a copy of the record that resulted in the denial as well as how to dispute and correct any information in the applicant's record that the applicant believes is incorrect.