Precious Metals & Firearms Dealer Applications: Licensing Information

Welcome to the Bucks County Sheriff's Office resource page for individuals and businesses seeking licenses to operate as Precious Metals Dealers or Firearms Dealers within Bucks County. The Bucks County Sheriff's Office is responsible for processing and issuing these licenses, ensuring compliance with both local ordinances and the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This page provides essential information regarding the application process, requirements, and contact details for obtaining these necessary licenses.

We accept applications at our Doylestown location Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM only. Appointments are required. Please call to schedule your appointment: 215-348-6148

Precious Metals Dealer License

Precious metals are defined as items containing or made of gold, silver, or platinum. This includes jewelry and silver services. However, coins, bullion, and other articles containing less than 5% of gold, silver, or platinum by weight are NOT considered precious metals for licensing purposes.

Any individual or business that purchases precious metals from the public for resale or refining is considered a Dealer in Precious Metals and requires a permit for Bucks County. To obtain this permit, you must submit an application to the Sheriff's Office.

Firearms Dealer License

Pennsylvania law mandates that all firearms dealers must be licensed by the state. As per 18 Pa.C.S. Section 6112: "No retail dealer shall sell, or otherwise transfer or expose for sale or transfer, or have in his possession with intent to sell or transfer, any firearm as defined in section 6113(d) (relating to licensing of dealers) without being licensed as provided in this chapter."

For the purpose of the law (18 Pa.C.S. Section 6113), a "firearm" includes: "any weapon that is designed to or may readily be converted to expel any projectile by the action of an explosive or the frame or receiver of any such weapon."  

The Sheriff will approve applicants for a dealer's license in accordance with the laws set forth by the Pennsylvania State Police. These licenses are valid for three years from the date of issuance, allowing the dealer to sell directly to the public.