Does a permit qualify as an alternative to a NICS check if the purchaser is using it to purchase a type of firearm that is not covered by the permit?
Yes, assuming the transaction complies with State law. Example: ATF recognizes the permit to purchase a handgun and the concealed weapons permit as alternatives to a NICS check in State A. Any purchaser who displays a permit to purchase a handgun or a concealed weapons permit in State A is not required to undergo a NICS check prior to purchasing a rifle, assuming the transaction complies with State law. Example: In that same State, a person with a concealed weapons permit wants to purchase a handgun. State law prohibits the sale of any handgun to a person unless he or she has a permit to purchase a handgun. Accordingly, the licensee cannot lawfully sell the handgun (with or without a NICS check) unless the purchaser has a permit to purchase a handgun.
