§ 925(c) Program Status Tracker

We update this page whenever the Department of Justice acts. Last verified: August 20, 2026 — the day the final rule published.

Question	Status
Can I file an application today?	Not yet — but the date is set. The final rule is effective September 21, 2026, when DOJ begins accepting applications. The online form (OMB No. 1123-0017) is “coming soon” per DOJ.
Where is the rule?	FINAL RULE PUBLISHED August 20, 2026 (Fed. Reg. Doc. 2026-16981), following the July 2025 proposed rule and 3,427 public comments. Effective September 21, 2026.
Is DOJ actually granting relief?	Yes — in batches, ahead of the final rule. Most recently, 22 grants signed February 6, 2026 and published in the Federal Register February 23, 2026.
What will it cost to file?	A $30 federal filing fee (fee waivers and reductions available), per DOJ’s program page.
How many people will apply?	DOJ's own estimate: roughly 1,000,000 applications in the first year.
What should I do now?	You have about a month. Certified copies of decades-old court files can take weeks — start now and your application is complete on day one. DOJ has signaled the intake will open in stages, so early, complete filings matter. Start with the free checklist.

Timeline of the revival

• Feb 7, 2025 — Executive Order 14206 directs a review of Second Amendment policies
• Mar 2025 — DOJ interim rule moves § 925(c) authority from ATF to the Department; first grants follow that spring
• Jul 22, 2025 — Proposed rule published; application framework, criteria, and $20 fee proposed
• Oct 20, 2025 — Comment period closes with 3,427 comments
• Feb 2026 — 22 additional grants of relief published
• Aug 20, 2026 — Final rule published; $30 fee; new presumptive categories. Our full analysis →
• Sept 21, 2026 — Rule effective; DOJ begins accepting applications