This only applies if the seller does not have reason to believe the buyer is a "prohibited person" (e.g., a convicted felon).

You buy the firearm online and select a local FFL dealer to receive it.

Many states, such as California, New York, and Washington , have passed "universal background check" laws that override the federal baseline, requiring even private sales to be processed through an FFL dealer. 2. Buying Online (The FFL Intermediary)