How to Get Your ATF-EFT File for NFA Applications in New Mexico

If you're submitting an NFA application for a suppressor, short-barreled rifle (SBR), short-barreled shotgun (SBS), or other regulated item, you'll need an ATF-EFT file — an electronic fingerprint transaction file in the specific format required by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. ABQ Fingerprinting captures and delivers your ATF-EFT file same day at six locations across New Mexico. Walk-ins welcome. $65 per person.

What is an ATF-EFT file?

An ATF-EFT (Electronic Fingerprint Transaction) file is a digital fingerprint file in the .eft format required by the ATF for NFA eForm submissions. Unlike a paper FD-258 card, the EFT file is submitted electronically through the ATF's eForms portal. You receive the file via email and on a flash drive — ready to attach to your Form 1 or Form 4 application the same day.

Do I need an ATF-EFT file for my NFA application?

Yes, if you are submitting via ATF eForms (the online portal). Electronic submissions require the .eft file format. If you are submitting a paper Form 4 by mail, you need FD-258 fingerprint cards instead — available at the same locations. Not sure which you need? Call 877-340-8822 and we'll confirm before your visit.

Form 1 vs. Form 4 — which do I need fingerprints for?

Both Form 1 (making an NFA item) and Form 4 (transferring an NFA item) require fingerprints. The process is the same for both — one visit, one ATF-EFT file delivered same day. Common NFA items requiring fingerprints include suppressors, SBRs, SBSs, machine guns, and destructive devices.

What to expect at your appointment

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID. No prior setup required — walk in, get fingerprinted, and receive your .eft file via email before you leave. We also provide the file on a USB flash drive at no extra charge. Most appointments take 15 minutes or less. Cost is $65 per person.

ATF-EFT fingerprinting locations in New Mexico

ABQ Fingerprinting offers ATF-EFT fingerprinting at six locations statewide:

Albuquerque — Wyoming Professional Building, 3620 Wyoming Blvd NE Suite 117. Call 505-414-1787.

Las Cruces — HTM Security Services, 1065 S Main St Suite B, Sun Belt Plaza. Call 575-524-6904.

Rio Rancho — Beyond Mail and Print, 4405 Jager Dr NE Suite C4, Enchanted Hills Plaza. Call 505-464-1136.

Taos — 9 to 5 Ship and Print, 710 D Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Cruz Alta Shopping Center. Call 575-751-1313.

Farmington — Safety LLC, 612 E Murray Drive. Call 505-860-5727.

Carlsbad — Courtesy Sporting & Pawn, LLC, 1095 North Canal St. Call 575-302-3255.

Mobile fingerprinting available statewide for groups of 15 or more. Call 877-340-8822.

Frequently asked questions

Q: How is the ATF-EFT file delivered?

A: Via email to the address you provide at your appointment, and on a USB flash drive provided at no extra charge. Most customers receive their file before leaving the location.

Q: Can I use one ATF-EFT file for multiple NFA items?

A: No. Each NFA application requires a separate fingerprint submission. If you are submitting multiple Form 4s simultaneously, you will need a separate EFT file for each application. Call 877-340-8822 to discuss multi-item appointments.

Q: Does ABQ Fingerprinting work with all firearms dealers in New Mexico?

A: Yes. Our ATF-EFT files are formatted to ATF specifications and compatible with all NFA eForms submissions regardless of which dealer you are working with.

Q: What if I submitted a paper Form 4 and need FD-258 cards instead?

A: FD-258 fingerprint cards are available at all six locations. Same walk-in process. Cards are digitally captured and printed on certified card stock — not ink-rolled. Call 877-340-8822 for pricing.

Q: Do I need an appointment?

A: We recommend scheduling and paying online at abqfingerprinting.com before your visit — it's the fastest way to get in and out. Walk-ins are welcome at all locations; a QR code is available on-site at each location to register and pay from your smartphone. Call 877-340-8822 with any questions.

Ready to get your ATF-EFT file?

Schedule and pay online at abqfingerprinting.com before your visit, or walk in to any of our six New Mexico locations — a QR code is available on-site to register. Questions? Call 877-340-8822.