StacksVerified U.S. federal law reference

26 U.S.C. § 5842 — Identification of firearms

Verified against govinfo.gov as of June 20, 2026View official text on govinfo.gov
  1. (a)Identification of firearms other than destructive devicesEach manufacturer and importer and anyone making a firearm shall identify each firearm, other than a destructive device, manufactured, imported, or made by a serial number which may not be readily removed, obliterated, or altered, the name of the manufacturer, importer, or maker, and such other identification as the Secretary may by regulations prescribe.
  2. (b)Firearms without serial numberAny person who possesses a firearm, other than a destructive device, which does not bear the serial number and other information required by subsection (a) of this section shall identify the firearm with a serial number assigned by the Secretary and any other information the Secretary may by regulations prescribe.
  3. (c)Identification of destructive deviceAny firearm classified as a destructive device shall be identified in such manner as the Secretary may by regulations prescribe.